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Wherever you place them, Kilim pillows bring history, artistry, and a timeless touch to your home. Explore our collection and find the perfect ones to complement your style!
Every Kilim pillow in our collection carries a unique tale of artistry, tradition, and craftsmanship. Handwoven from vintage Kilim rugs, these one-of-a-kind pieces bring texture, color, and character to any space. No two are alike—each pillow is a work of art, rich in history and timeless charm.
Discover a stunning collection of authentic Kilim pillows, each handcrafted from vintage Kilim rugs and woven with history, culture, and artistry. No two are alike—every pillow is a unique statement piece, perfect for adding warmth, texture, and personality to your space.
Fresh Finds Just In!
Discover our meticulously curated collection of exquisite vintage kilim pillows, each thoughtfully crafted from salvaged mid-century Turkish kilim rugs. These sustainably-made treasures have been ingeniously repurposed into captivating accent pieces that effortlessly infuse any space with a cozy ambiance.
Distinguished by their ethical creation process and exclusive use of individual pieces, our kilim pillows are truly one-of-a-kind. Each pillow represents a unique fragment of a larger masterpiece, ensuring an unparalleled sense of artistry and heritage.
At our Day & NIte Rugs, we are committed to prolonging the lifespan of these handcrafted works of art, and our kilim pillows exemplify our unwavering dedication to this endeavor. Take part in this exceptional journey, as we celebrate the beauty and cultural significance of Turkish kilim in an extraordinary form – kilim pillows.
History Lesson: What Exactly Is a Kilim Pillow?
A Kilim pillow is a decorative cushion cover made from handwoven Kilim rugs, which are traditional flat-woven textiles originating from regions such as Turkey, Iran, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and North Africa. These pillows are crafted from vintage or antique Kilims, repurposing their intricate patterns and bold colors into one-of-a-kind home décor pieces.
Unlike regular pillows, Kilim pillows retain the authentic texture, history, and character of the rugs they are made from, making each piece unique in pattern, color, and weave. No two Kilim pillows are identical, ensuring that every pillow carries a story of craftsmanship and tradition.
How Are Kilim Pillows Made?
- Sourcing the Kilim – Artisans carefully select vintage or antique Kilim rugs that may no longer be usable as floor coverings but still hold artistic and cultural value.
- Cutting & Crafting – The most beautiful and intact sections of the Kilim are cut and sewn into pillow covers, preserving the woven patterns and motifs.
- Adding a Backing – The back of the pillow is typically made from a sturdy fabric, such as cotton or linen, with a zipper closure for easy use.
- Finishing Touches – The final product is a vibrant, textured pillow that can be filled with an insert and placed on sofas, chairs, or beds for a touch of bohemian, rustic, or global charm.
What Makes Kilim Pillows Special?
- Handwoven & One-of-a-Kind – Each pillow is crafted from a vintage Kilim, meaning no two are ever the same.
- Rich in History & Culture – Kilims are woven by skilled artisans, often incorporating symbols and motifs that represent protection, fertility, or good fortune.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – By repurposing old Kilim rugs into pillows, these textiles get a new life, reducing waste while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
- Timeless & Versatile – Whether your style is boho-chic, farmhouse, mid-century modern, or contemporary, Kilim pillows add warmth, texture, and a unique global touch to any space.
How to Style Kilim Pillows
Kilim pillows are not just decorative—they’re statement pieces that bring warmth, texture, and a unique global charm to any space. Here are some creative ways to style them:
- Layer them on a sofa – Mix and match different sizes and patterns for an eclectic, cozy look. Kilim pillows add depth and character, instantly transforming your living space into a welcoming retreat.
- Pair them with neutral-colored cushions – Let their bold patterns and rich colors shine by placing them alongside solid or muted tones. This contrast enhances the intricate designs and keeps your space balanced and visually appealing.
- Use them as floor cushions – Kilim pillows make perfect floor seating for a relaxed, bohemian vibe. Stack them near a coffee table or reading nook to create a comfortable and stylish lounge area.
- Place them on a bed – Add texture, warmth, and a pop of color to your bedroom by layering Kilim pillows against standard pillows. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a maximalist mix, they instantly elevate your bedding ensemble.
- Accent a chair or bench – A single Kilim pillow can breathe new life into a wooden bench, accent chair, or entryway seating, adding both comfort and character.
- Mix and match styles – Play with different Kilim patterns, sizes, and colors to create a curated look that feels personal and unique to your space.
Artistry Woven Through Generations
Wherever you place them, Kilim pillows bring history, artistry, and a timeless touch to your home.
Explore our collection and find the perfect ones to complement your style!
The Rich History of Kilim Rugs:
Kilim rugs are more than just beautiful textiles; they are a centuries-old tradition woven into the cultural fabric of many regions, particularly in Turkey, Iran, the Caucasus, Central Asia, North Africa, and parts of the Balkans. These flat-woven rugs, crafted without a pile, have been used for generations by nomadic and village communities for both practical and decorative purposes. Their bold geometric designs, intricate patterns, and rich colors are a testament to the artistry, symbolism, and storytelling of the people who create them.
Origins & Cultural Significance
The word “Kilim” comes from the Persian word “gelīm”, meaning “to spread” or “cover.” Unlike knotted rugs, Kilims are created through a weaving technique where warp and weft threads are tightly interlaced to form striking, colorful patterns. This method results in a lightweight yet durable textile, traditionally used for floor coverings, tent walls, saddlebags, and even ceremonial pieces.
The origins of Kilim weaving date back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting that some of the oldest examples may have existed as early as 6000 B.C. in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). These rugs were not just functional but also deeply symbolic, with each motif and color choice carrying spiritual or protective meanings.
Notable Kilim-Weaving Tribes & Regions
Each region and tribe has developed its own distinct Kilim styles, influenced by geography, materials, and cultural traditions. Below are some of the most well-known Kilim-producing communities and their unique contributions:
1. Anatolian (Turkish) Kilims
- Region: Turkey
- Distinctive Features: Bold, geometric patterns, rich reds, deep blues, and earth tones
- Tribes: Yörük, Balıkesir, Aydin, Konya, Bergama, and Fethiye
- Significance: Turkish Kilims are among the most well-known and widely collected. Many designs feature the elibelinde motif, a stylized female figure representing fertility and motherhood, as well as protective symbols like the evil eye and ram’s horns for strength and protection.
2. Persian (Iranian) Kilims
- Region: Iran
- Distinctive Features: Complex patterns, floral and vine motifs, softer color palettes
- Tribes: Qashqai, Luri, Bakhtiari, and Shahsavan
- Significance: Persian Kilims are known for their intricate detailing and refined craftsmanship. The Qashqai tribe, for instance, produces highly decorative Kilims with fine detailing and deep, natural dyes.
3. Caucasian Kilims
- Region: The Caucasus (modern-day Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, and Russia)
- Distinctive Features: Strong geometric designs, vibrant primary colors, medallion motifs
- Tribes: Karabagh, Kazak, Shirvan
- Significance: Caucasian Kilims are famous for their bold, angular motifs and high-contrast color palettes. They often incorporate star-like medallions, crosses, and stylized animals, believed to have protective or spiritual meanings.
4. Central Asian Kilims
- Region: Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan
- Distinctive Features: Vertical striped patterns, intricate detailing, and symbolic animal motifs
- Tribes: Turkmen, Uzbek, Kyrgyz
- Significance: The Turkmen tribes are known for their deep-red Kilims with stylized guls (tribal emblems), while the Uzbek Kilims feature bright, lively colors and unique, repeating floral or tree-of-life motifs.
5. North African & Berber Kilims
- Region: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia
- Distinctive Features: Neutral and earthy tones, diamond motifs, soft texture
- Tribes: Berber tribes, particularly the Beni Ourain
- Significance: Moroccan Kilims, particularly those woven by the Berber people, have a distinct abstract aesthetic, often featuring diamond or zigzag motifs. These patterns are thought to ward off evil spirits and bring protection.
Symbolism & Meaning in Kilim Rugs
Kilim designs are not random; they carry deep cultural and spiritual meanings. Many motifs and symbols represent aspects of daily life, protection, and prosperity. Here are a few common ones:
- The Evil Eye (Nazar) – Wards off negative energy and protects against harm
- Ram’s Horns – Strength, masculinity, heroism
- Elibelinde (Hands on Hips) – Fertility, motherhood, female power
- The Tree of Life – A connection between heaven and earth, growth, and prosperity
- Star or Medallion – Good luck, balance, and harmony
- Birds – Freedom, happiness, and good fortune
Why Choose a Kilim Pillow?
By repurposing pieces of vintage and antique Kilim rugs, Kilim pillows offer a way to preserve history and craftsmanship in a versatile, modern form. These pillows allow you to bring a touch of heritage, texture, and unique artistry into your home—whether your style leans toward bohemian, rustic, or contemporary chic.
Each Kilim pillow carries the soul of the weaver who created it, making it not just a decorative item but a story woven in fabric—a timeless piece of art that reflects tradition, culture, and beauty.
Shop Authentic Kilim Pillows
If you’re looking to bring handcrafted history into your home, explore our collection of authentic Kilim pillows, each made from vintage rugs with its own unique story to tell. Shop now and find the perfect piece to add warmth, character, and a touch of history to your space!
