Weaving begins on a simple wooden frame loom set up on the floor. Strong wool yarn is used to warp the loom, creating the base structure for the kilim. From there, the weaving begins. Women work either alone or side by side, depending on the kilim’s width. The designs—passed down through generations—are rarely drawn out. Instead, they are stored in the mind, and woven from memory with remarkable precision.
Weaving is demanding work, but it's also a time for Turkmen women to gather, talk, and connect. For many, it's their only source of income—and a skill every girl learns from her mother. Weaving isn't just tradition; it's woven into the fabric of Turkmen culture.
The Turkmen people have been weavers for centuries. Within the Turkmen tribes there are different communities with different motifs, colors and techniques that are handed down through the family. The Turkmen Handicrafts kilims are specific to the Maymana area of Northern Afghanistan. The weaving gives the women a form of self expression with the interpretation of the colors and designs.
Geometric designs in Turkmen weaving are rich with meaning, using motifs passed down through generations to communicate cultural values and ideas. Common symbols include representations of motherhood, fertility, power, heroism, and masculinity. The symbolic eye offers protection for the family; the star stands for happiness; the dragon calls for spring rains; and the bird symbolizes joy and love. Other motifs include the tree of life, running water, and the concept of dualism.
Depending on the size the weaving can take from 15 days to several months.
Once the weaving is done, the kilim is singed with a flame torch to remove loose fibers, then washed on a cement surface with soap and water. This cleaning helps soften the fibers and bring out the richness of the colors. 
After washing, the kilim is laid flat to dry under the sun, which further enhances its natural dyes. The final result is a durable and vibrant piece.
After drying under the sun, the fringe at each end is carefully tied. The kilim is then measured and prepared for market—ready to be sold or used in homes.
Weaving The Kilims
Weaving begins on a simple wooden frame loom set up on the floor. Strong wool yarn is used to warp the loom, creating the base structure for the kilim. From there, the weaving begins. Women work either alone or side by side, depending on the kilim’s width. The designs—passed down through generations—are rarely drawn out. Instead, they are stored in the mind, and woven from memory with remarkable precision.
Weaving is demanding work, but it's also a time for Turkmen women to gather, talk, and connect. For many, it's their only source of income—and a skill every girl learns from her mother. Weaving isn't just tradition; it's woven into the fabric of Turkmen culture.
The Turkmen people have been weavers for centuries. Within the Turkmen tribes there are different communities with different motifs, colors and techniques that are handed down through the family. The Turkmen Handicrafts kilims are specific to the Maymana area of Northern Afghanistan. The weaving gives the women a form of self expression with the interpretation of the colors and designs.
Geometric designs in Turkmen weaving are rich with meaning, using motifs passed down through generations to communicate cultural values and ideas. Common symbols include representations of motherhood, fertility, power, heroism, and masculinity. The symbolic eye offers protection for the family; the star stands for happiness; the dragon calls for spring rains; and the bird symbolizes joy and love. Other motifs include the tree of life, running water, and the concept of dualism.
Depending on the size the weaving can take from 15 days to several months.
After washing, the kilim is laid flat to dry under the sun, which further enhances its natural dyes. The final result is a durable and vibrant piece.
After drying under the sun, the fringe at each end is carefully tied. The kilim is then measured and prepared for market—ready to be sold or used in homes.