There are four types of rugs produced in Turkey; they are classified according to the materials used.

The categories include silk on silk, wool on cotton, wool on wool, and viscose on cotton, kilims, and tulu.

At present, it is impossible to prove exactly when and where rug weaving began, as there is no reliable source, but it can be traced back as early the Neolithic age (7000 BC). The first examples consisting of warp and weft were textile products, which resembled flat, weave kilims. Then forming knots to make a pile created rugs. According to scientist, rug weaving must have originated in the dry steppe regions where the nomadic tribes lived. Central Asia was a suitable location for the first rug-weaving center because of the availability of land for herding sheep and because of the climate of the region.

Rugs have been used in the home as floor coverings, blankets, tablecloths and decorations. They acquire value as they are used, whereas most objects decrease in value over time.