Unraveling the Art of Oriental Rug Repair: A Conversation with Eldin Touni

When it comes to the art of oriental rug repair, few understand the intricacies better than Eldin Touni, the seasoned expert behind Oriental Rug Specialists. With decades of hands-on experience, Touni has built a reputation for preserving the heritage of handwoven rugs through skilled cleaning, repair, and restoration. In this article, we delve into his insights, revealing the delicate balance of artistry and expertise required in this specialized field—and why trusting a professional can mean the difference between a ruined piece and a revived treasure.

The Craft Behind Oriental Rug Repair

Eldin Touni's journey into the world of oriental rugs began with a deep appreciation for their cultural significance and craftsmanship. “Each rug is unique,” Touni explains. “Whether it’s Persian, Turkish, Afghan, or Caucasian, the materials, dyes, and weaving techniques vary significantly.” This diversity demands a tailored approach to cleaning and restoration, one that honors the rug’s heritage while restoring its beauty and function.

Touni’s work is not just about rug repair—it’s about preserving stories. Many of the pieces that pass through his studio are family heirlooms, passed down through generations. “We’re not just restoring fabric,” he says. “We’re restoring memories.”

Understanding the Materials and Techniques

The first step in any restoration project is understanding the rug’s construction. “We assess the type of dye and material—whether it’s wool, silk, or a cotton blend,” Touni notes. This assessment is crucial. Natural dyes, for example, require gentler handling than synthetic ones, and delicate silk threads demand different tension levels when rewoven.

Touni details his cleaning process with precision. “We begin by dusting the rug thoroughly—years of dirt can become embedded in the fibers. Then we submerge the rug in lukewarm water with a glycerin-based soap. It’s safe, pH-balanced, and gentle on natural fibers. After washing, we extract the excess water and then sun-dry the rug over several days.”

This meticulous method safeguards the rug’s texture and vibrancy. “If we rush the drying or use heat,” he warns, “we risk shrinking or fading the rug. Patience is everything.”

Precision in Repair and Restoration

Repairing an oriental rug is akin to solving a complex, three-dimensional puzzle. “Every knot tells a story,” says Touni. “Missing even one can throw off the entire design.” This is especially true for finely woven rugs like the Kerman Lavar, which can contain up to 1,200 knots per square inch. The restoration of such intricate work requires a steady hand, a magnifying glass, and countless hours.

Touni shares a remarkable story about a rug attributed to Pablo Picasso. “No one believed it until we found his signature woven into the corner,” he recalls. Damaged by moths and time, the rug required months of detailed reweaving to match the original color gradients and abstract shapes. “It was like painting with wool.”

Another unforgettable restoration involved a 19th-century Heriz rug that had survived a house fire. “The family was devastated,” he says. “But we salvaged it—cleaned it, repaired the singed areas, and stabilized the foundation. It’s now hanging proudly in their home.”

Avoiding Common Mistakes

A significant portion of Touni’s work involves correcting damage caused by well-intentioned but uninformed rug owners. “The biggest mistake people make is using harsh chemicals,” he says. "They might Google a cleaning solution that works on synthetic carpets, not realizing it can ruin vegetable-dyed wool or silk."

He tells the story of a Persian Nain rug that changed from deep navy to an odd reddish hue after someone tried to clean it with store-bought carpet cleaner. “We were able to reverse most of the damage, but it took a week of chemical balancing and color correction.”

Other common errors include vacuuming the fringe (which can unravel edges), storing rugs in damp basements, and folding them instead of rolling. “We always tell clients—if you’re unsure, just call us first. It could save your rug.”

A Commitment to Excellence

The hallmark of Touni’s business is his relentless commitment to quality. “If the repair isn’t invisible, it’s not finished,” he says. Whether it’s pet damage, wine stains, or holes worn thin by foot traffic, Touni and his team strive for seamless results.

“Clients often tell us they can’t even find where the repair was done,” he adds. “That’s the best compliment we can receive.”

Customer satisfaction is at the heart of Oriental Rug Specialists. Many clients return again and again—not just because of the craftsmanship, but because of the trust they feel. “We don’t upsell, and we never cut corners,” Touni says. “People know their rug is in good hands.”

Why Professional Rug Care Matters

Oriental rugs are more than floor coverings—they’re works of art. In many cases, they are investments worth thousands of dollars. Others may have sentimental value that’s priceless. Either way, these pieces deserve care that respects their age, material, and design.

Touni stresses that professional cleaning should be done every 3–5 years, depending on the rug’s location and use. “Even if a rug looks clean, dust and oils from the air settle into the fibers and slowly break them down,” he explains. “Routine care extends the life of your rug significantly.”

Connecting with Oriental Rug Specialists

For those seeking expert care, Oriental Rug Specialists offers complimentary consultations. “A simple phone call or email starts the process,” Touni says. “We’ll ask questions, look at photos, and give a fair assessment—no pressure.”

They also offer pickup and delivery, making it convenient for clients across the region. “We want people to feel confident and informed. This isn’t just a transaction—it’s a partnership in preservation.”

Conclusion: The Art and Science of Rug Restoration

Eldin Touni’s life’s work is a testament to the intersection of art, science, and tradition. With deep knowledge and unmatched skill, he and his team at Oriental Rug Specialists breathe new life into old treasures, ensuring that each piece continues its story for generations to come.

Whether your rug is a centuries-old heirloom or a modern decorative piece, Touni’s expertise ensures it receives the care it deserves. To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit Oriental Rug Specialists or call Eldin direct at (760) 433-5500. Take the first step toward preserving the legacy under your feet.