A traditional and practical art in Kyrgyzstan, felt rugs (called Shyrdaks) are made in beautiful decorative patterns and it's all done by hand. We went searching for some traditional Kyrgyzstan felt pieces and found these wonderful examples:
We love the strong geometric patterns and bold colors that show up in these rugs. We particularly like the idea of using one to warm up a modern interior. Read more on the making of shyrdaks at Saudi Aramco World. Some sources we've found for purchasing online:
- Silkroad Textile (in The Netherlands)
- Felt.rugs in the UK
Images: Flickr user pbarry licensed for use under Creative Commons, Kyrgyz Felt blog, Kyrgy Carl, Felt., Wealth and Living Magazine






Sheex Bedding
These are absolutely gorgeous.
Yes, I love these kyrgyz wool rugs.. they are used in layers in the home, and as wall coverings too - it is such a lengthy process to make each layer of these rugs and they are truly beautiful. When I was in KG, I wanted to bring home a large one, but alas could only afford a small 1.5' square one. So glad you guys recognize their beauty!
Be very careful when you buy these-- I bought one in Central Asia along with a felted stuffed animal. A few months after returning back to the States I noticed that both pieces were filled with insect eggs, some of which had hatched!
Jr2046 - that is exactly my concern. I used to have great Moroccan rugs - until the moths ate them.
If you like your shyrdak on the wall, one way to keep it 'moth-free' is to iron with a thin wet layer of cloth over your shyrdak (I use buttercloth). And, thank you, Apartment Therapy, for posting a link to my store! It is quite flattering.