How & Where to Shop for Moroccan Rugs
My love for travel and discovering one-of-a-kind items for my interior design services led me to Morroco in 2014, and an adventure I won’t soon forget: shopping for Moroccan rugs. From the moment I stepped into the souks in Marakesh, I was immediately captivated by the geometric, organic designs and plush, soft textures of the authentic Moroccan Berber carpets.
Originating from the Atlas Mountains, Moroccan rugs reflect the tradition, cultural heritage, and beautiful artistry of the Berber people. Once used for practical purposes, today, these rugs have become a beloved staple in home decor (and a favorite on Instagram) for their ability to add character and warmth to a room. Featuring primarily neutral tones and deep, bold hues, the addition of a Morrocan rug pairs perfectly with many interior design trends and styles, from mid-century modern to traditional and contemporary.
Join me as we explore how to shop for these exquisite carpets so you can bring home a piece of Moroccan artistry that resonates with your style. And for those who prefer the convenience of shopping online for a curated selection, visit my Etsy shop, ModernMedina, for my handpicked collection of authentic, gorgeous, vintage Moroccan rugs.
How to Buy a Moroccan Rug in Morocco
Navigating Marrakesh's lively and colorful marketplace can be quite an adventure! It’s wise to understand the cultural nuances of purchasing a rug so you don’t overspend or make a purchase you regret.
Research Your Preferences Before You Shop
Walking into the marketplace can be so overwhelming! No matter how keen your eye for design may be, the sheer variety of Moroccan rugs can leave your head spinning. So, I highly recommend having a clear vision of what you like by doing a little homework ahead of time. Create a Pinterest board or scroll through Instagram under the hashtag #MoroccanRug and take screenshots of the styles that catch your eye so you can refer to them while shopping.
And if you’re interested in purchasing an “antique” rug, be aware that the price tag for these vintage beauties will be significantly higher. So, read up on how to identify an authentic antique and the value ranges based on age and condition.
Step Into a Shop and Accept the Mint Tea
With countless stores, commit to one that stands out for its quality. (And, a quick sidenote: steer clear of those outdoor stalls peddling knock-off rugs. It’ll save you a lot of heartache later!) Once you’ve found a shop you’re inspired to enter, expect a warm welcome from the sellers or the owner and accept the offer of mint tea. It’s more a delightful tradition than a sales tactic, so take a moment to toast your adventure of finding the perfect rug.
Begin Shopping and Narrowing Down Your Choices
The dealer will start presenting rugs to you in quick succession. When a rug catches your eye, you can say “haali” to keep it for consideration or “ishmaa” if you think it’s not the one. Feel free to share your thoughts on what you love or don’t love about each rug. This feedback helps them tailor the selection to your taste. As the options narrow down, you’ll have a few favorites to think about. Always go for the best wool and check if it’s genuine! If you’re considering a colored rug, grab a damp cloth and give it a little rub. If the color bleeds, it’s made with synthetic dyes and a no-go.
Negotiate Your Price
In Morocco, merchants expect you to haggle. So, if you're generally someone who dislikes confrontation or prefers to please everyone, you might need to mentally prepare yourself for this part of the experience.
When the dealer gives you that initial price, it’s always intentionally high. They’re gauging your interest and trying to maximize their profit. Now, if you're not willing to start negotiating at least half of that opening price, the rug is likely beyond your budget. Stand firm on what you're willing to spend. If a rug is out of your price range, let the seller know and move on.
Factor in Shipping Costs
A lot of rug dealers will bundle shipping into the overall price, which can initially look appealing. However, it can also be a bit misleading. I always recommend asking dealers to break down the rug price and the shipping fees separately. This way, you have a clearer picture of hidden shipping charges. If you’re just picking up one or two rugs, they roll them tight, so you could bring them back in an extra suitcase. Sometimes, checking an additional bag is cheaper than paying for shipping.
Tips for Shopping for Morrocan Rugs
If you're considering making a trip to find that perfect addition, here are my top tips for shopping for Moroccan rugs that will help you navigate the busy souks with confidence!
The more you purchase, the better your deal. Sellers love to negotiate, so if it’s in your budget, think big when making selections.
Only pull the rugs you're genuinely interested in. Avoid adding clutter to the process with “maybe” pieces.
A guide will charge you 15% of your final price. However, you can have a positive shopping experience without their help, so skip their pricey assistance.
Don’t think you can come back later. If you’ve found a rug you adore, buy it or resolve to let it go. Once you walk away, you’ll likely never find your way back once you've wandered the souks.
Embrace imperfection. Each handmade piece from the Berber tribes is beautifully unique, and that’s part of its charm!
Avoid resort shops and Instagram-famous shops. They often come with inflated prices.
Don’t fall for paying more to help support the craftsman. Often, any extra cash you add stays in the dealer’s pocket.
Always pay with a credit card for that extra layer of protection. If something goes wrong, you have a way to dispute the charge.
Ask about the type of rug you’re buying and how to care for it. The term "Berber" can refer to many varieties.
Stick to your home’s color scheme to avoid any regrets later on.
Marrakech measures in meters. Having your own tape measure helps simplify sizing decisions.
Snap pictures of every rug you purchase. With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget what you’ve bought!
Where to Buy Morrocan Rugs Online
If you're on the hunt for a vintage Berber Moroccan rug but don’t have a trip to Marrakesh planned anytime soon, you can still snag the perfect rug. Before you shop for a Morrocan rug online, decide if authentic or antique (or both) are a priority or if you’ll be satisfied with a more affordable synthetic carpet that looks Morrocan. This preference will dictate which sites you shop.
Start with Etsy
On Etsy, you can browse hundreds, if not thousands, of sellers offering authentic pieces, many of which have been shipped directly from Morocco. Plus, you might find options that can be custom-made to fit your space perfectly.
My Etsy shop, ModernMedina, features stunning vintage Moroccan rugs that I sourced directly from weavers in the Atlas Mountains during my travels. I currently have four beautiful authentic Berber rugs available, each with a vintage from the 1970s or the 1980s. They’re handmade, loom-woven, and crafted from 100% natural wool in unique designs and lovely colors, including a patterned red, textured grey, a classic Beni Ourain style, and a rare black rug.
Additional Places to Shop Online
There are plenty of other fantastic online options to find that perfect Moroccan rug. Again, consider whether authenticity is important to you. The term “Moroccan-style” or “Morrocan-inspired” indicates factory-made pieces.
eBay: You’ll find more than your fill of authentic antique Moroccan rugs. You can filter your search by color, size, condition, material, price, and whether you want to make a bid or buy it outright.
Revival: This site has a dedicated Moroccan rug category filled with original and one-of-a-kind pieces.
1stDibs: If you're seeking a more curated experience, this antique and auction site has an extensive selection of affordable Moroccan rugs
West Elm: Perfect for those of us who love mid-century modern aesthetics. They have a great selection of Moroccan-inspired rugs that fit right into that chic style.
Rugs USA: This no-frills site has many affordable Moroccan-style rugs in the color and size of your choice with lightning-fast shipping.
Wayfair: If you’re looking for practicality without breaking the bank, check out their great options for flatweave Moroccan-inspired runners.
Styling Your Newly Purchased Morrocan Rug in Your Home
Whether you’ve just returned from the souks of Marrakesh or found your dream rug online, I hope your new Moroccan rug brings you joy every time you see it. Each rug is a unique work of art, so think carefully about where to place it. Select a spot that complements your room’s dimensions and compliments its overall aesthetic.
If you’d like some guidance on styling your rug, sourcing vintage pieces, or enhancing your decor around it, I’m here to help! Reach out to JGI Interior Design Services for expert advice. Our convenient e-design and full-service offerings can help you create the perfect space that highlights your new Morrocan rug beautifully.