Termeh: Yazd's woven silk-wool cloth and how to spot printed fakes

What is termeh?

Termeh is a traditional Persian cloth woven on a draw loom, historically from fine wool and silk. It is closely linked with Yazd. Patterns, especially the boteh (paisley), are woven into the fabric rather than printed or embroidered.

How it is made

Weaving termeh requires two people on a traditional loom: the weaver and an assistant who lifts pattern threads. Progress is slow — a few centimetres a day for fine pieces. Most termeh on the market today is machine-woven with synthetic fibres.

Uses

Termeh is used for tablecloths, sofreh for the Nowruz haft-sin table, cushion covers, and wedding gifts.

How to spot printed or machine fakes

• Printed termeh shows a pattern only on the front; woven termeh shows a reverse pattern on the back
• Hand-woven termeh has tiny irregularities; machine termeh is perfectly uniform
• Synthetic fibre feels slippery and melts (not burns) when tested by a professional
• Very low prices for large pieces usually mean machine-made

Care

Dry clean only with a specialist, fold with tissue or roll, and keep out of sunlight.