Termeh: The Luxurious Handwoven Fabric of Persia

Few fabrics carry the sense of luxury and heritage that Termeh does. Handwoven over centuries in the Persian city of Yazd, this rich, patterned cloth was once reserved for royalty and nobility. Today it brings a touch of Persian splendour to runners, cushions and bags. At Persis Collection we work with weavers who keep the tradition alive, so here is a guide to what Termeh is and why it is so prized.

What is Termeh?

Termeh is a fine handwoven fabric, traditionally made from soft wool and silk, covered in intricate patterns and rich colours. It is luxurious to the touch and instantly recognisable, and the best of it has long been woven in Yazd, a desert city famous for its textiles.

A fabric fit for royalty

Termeh has a long history in Persia and reached its height under the Safavid dynasty, when it adorned palaces and the wardrobes of the nobility. Because each piece took so long to weave by hand, it was always a mark of status and refinement, given as a precious gift and passed down through families.

How Termeh is made

Genuine Termeh is woven entirely by hand on a traditional loom, often by two weavers working together, and the process is painstakingly slow. A skilled weaver may complete only a small length in a day, which is part of why true Termeh is so valued. The patterns are built into the weave itself rather than printed on top.

Patterns and colours

The signature motif is the boteh, the teardrop shape the West came to know as paisley, often alongside the jegheh and flowing floral designs. Deep reds, greens, oranges and golds are typical, sometimes lifted with gold or silver thread, giving Termeh its unmistakable glow.

How Termeh is used today

Termeh suits any setting where you want a touch of Persian luxury. It is most loved as table runners and cloths, cushion covers and bags, and it traditionally forms the base of the Sofreh Aghd, the Persian wedding spread. A length of Termeh also makes an elegant, meaningful gift. You can explore our handwoven Termeh collection.

Caring for Termeh

Termeh deserves gentle care. Keep it away from damp, avoid wringing or harsh washing, and have finer pieces dry cleaned. Stored folded and dry, a good piece of Termeh will keep its colour and lustre for many years.

Frequently asked questions

What is Termeh made of? Traditionally fine wool and silk, woven by hand into rich, patterned cloth.

Where does Termeh come from? The Persian city of Yazd is the historic home of Termeh weaving.

How is Termeh used? Most often as table runners and cloths, cushion covers and bags, and as the base of the Persian wedding spread.

How do I care for Termeh? Keep it dry, handle it gently, and have finer pieces dry cleaned rather than machine washed.

Where can I buy Termeh? Persis Collection offers handwoven Termeh runners, cushions and bags, with worldwide delivery.

To feel the difference handwoven luxury makes, explore our Termeh collection.