Run a hand over the Gabbeh Soni and the wool feels dry and springy. Every strand is crimped. Those small kinks hold air between the fibres, so the surface gives slightly underfoot when you cross this multicoloured wool rug.

• 100% wool pile on a wool backing
• Made on a handloom in India
• Short pile, rectangular
• Colourful pattern
• Suitable for underfloor heating

On a handloom the weaver opens the shed with foot pedals and guides each weft across by hand. Made this way, the Soni can differ a little from its listed size, so leave some margin in the size guide when you measure a lounge or bedroom. Its low pile lies flat in front of a sofa, so it works as a rug for the living room as well as under a dining table. Wool front and back puts the Soni among our wool rugs.

New wool lets go of some loose fibres in the first weeks. Trim any thread that stands up with scissors rather than pulling it, and turn to our cleaning advice when a table leg leaves a dent, since a little moisture usually lets the wool rise again. Regular vacuuming of the Soni clears that early fluff.