Beginner guide · 9 min
What is abrash in a Persian rug?
Editorial team · updated 2026-10-03
Why it happens
Weavers dye wool in small batches. When one batch runs out the next may differ slightly in shade, producing horizontal bands of colour.
Is it a fault?
Collectors often value gentle abrash as evidence of natural dyes and handwork. Strong abrash in a formal city rug may be less desired.
Fake abrash
Some machine rugs print colour bands. Check the back: printed variation will not match knots.
A note on this guide
This guide is general information from the CraftPersia editorial team and has not been reviewed by a specialist. Prices, workshop locations and practices change; check current details before travelling or buying.
Related photographs
Representative photographs, not of any specific catalogued object. Sources on the credits page.