How to Buy an Afghan: A Comprehensive Guide

Your Guide to buying the best Afghans

Overview

A buying guide for Afghans is essential for any buyer looking to purchase a quality, authentic Afghan product. Afghans are a unique and beautiful type of textile, handmade in Afghanistan with a unique cultural history. This guide will provide an overview of the different types of Afghans, their history and origin, and what to look for when purchasing one. It will help buyers understand the different materials, designs, and price points, as well as how to identify an authentic Afghan product. By the end of this guide, buyers should have a better understanding of the different Afghan options, and be able to make an informed buying decision.

Key features

  • Size: The size you choose depends on how much space you have and the size of the room. Afghan sizes typically range from small to king size.
  • Fiber Content: Afghans can be made from a variety of materials, such as wool, acrylic, cotton or synthetic blends. Consider the climate of the room in which you plan to use your afghan and choose a material that is both comfortable and durable.
  • Design: Afghans come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. Decide if you want a classic afghan look or something more modern and unique to create a statement.
  • Care Instructions: Take into account how you will clean and maintain your afghan. Some Afghans can be machine washed, while others should only be spot cleaned.

See the most popular Afghans on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: Afghans are made of a heavy-duty wool-acrylic blend that is extremely durable and can last for years.
  • Texture: Afghans offer a soft, luxurious texture that makes them both attractive and comfortable.
  • Versatility: Afghans can be used as a throw blanket, decorative wall piece, or even a bedspread.
  • Design Options: Afghans come in a variety of styles, colors and patterns to match any décor.
  • Affordability: Afghans are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of blankets and bedding.

Cons

  • Cost - Afghan carpets are often expensive and may require a large initial investment.
  • Authenticity and Quality - Some dealers are known to sell counterfeit carpets, so buyers should take care to ensure the authenticity and quality of the product.
  • Maintenance - Afghans require regular maintenance, including deep cleaning, to preserve their beauty and avoid damage.
  • Size - Afghans are available in a variety of sizes, and buyers should ensure that they have the appropriate space available for the size they purchase.
  • Design - Afghans can come in a range of designs, so buyers should consider which design best suits their needs and aesthetic.

Best alternatives

  1. Throws - Thickly woven, usually made of cotton, wool, or acrylic material.
  2. Blankets - Generally lighter weight than throws and made of fleece, wool, or synthetic material.
  3. Bedspreads - Thinly woven bed coverings, usually with fringes or tassels.
  4. Quilts - Comforters of multiple layers of fabric with a decorative design.
  5. Pillows - Available in different sizes and shapes, often filled with feathers, foam, or synthetic materials.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Yarn - Used to create the Afghan fabric.
  • Needles - Long needles with blunt points designed for use with yarn.
  • Crochet Hooks - Used to join sections of yarn together to create designs.
  • Tape Measure - Used to measure the size of the Afghan.
  • Stitch Markers - Used to mark the beginning and end of rows or sections.
  • Patterns - A set of instructions for creating an Afghan.

Common questions

  1. What type of Afghan should I buy for myself or as a gift? The type of Afghan you should buy depends on a variety of factors, such as the purpose of the Afghan (decoration, comfort, etc.), the size of the space it will occupy, the interior décor, the climate in the area, the intended recipient, and the budget.
  2. What colors and patterns should I choose? When selecting colors and patterns for an Afghan, consider the colors and patterns of any furniture, artwork, and rugs in the room the Afghan will be placed in. Also consider the color palette and pattern preference of the intended recipient.
  3. What materials are best for Afghans? The most popular materials for Afghans are wool, cotton, acrylic, and a variety of blends. Wool and cotton are great for warmer climates, while acrylic is best for colder climates. Blends are best for a combination of both.
  4. How should I clean an Afghan? Most Afghans can be cleaned by hand or in the washing machine, depending on the material. Always check the care instructions on the label before cleaning. If hand-washing, use a mild detergent and lukewarm water. If using a washing machine, use the gentle cycle and a mild detergent.
  5. Are there different sizes of Afghans? Yes, Afghans come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small throws to large blankets. The size you choose depends on the intended use and the size of the space it will occupy.

Trivia

An interesting fact about Afghans is that the country is home to the world's largest lapis lazuli mine, located in the Badakhshan Province. Affectionately referred to as the “Jewel of Badakhshan”, the mine is believed to have been around for as long as 4,000 years. Today, lapis lazuli mined in Badakhshan is used to make luxury jewelry, decorative pieces, and even Buddhist art. It is surely a stunning reminder of Afghanistan’s rich history and culture. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.