Textiles · Middle Atlas, High Atlas

Berber Wool Blanket

Heavy hand-loomed wool blankets in natural cream, brown, and gray stripes. The everyday warmth blanket of Atlas mountain communities, distinct from decorative handira wedding blankets.

History & Cultural Context

While handira blankets are ceremonial, everyday Berber blankets are purely functional — thick, warm, and durable. Used as bedding, floor covering, and even outerwear in cold mountain winters. The natural stripe patterns come from mixing undyed light and dark wool.

Materials

Natural sheep wool (undyed)Locally spun wool in natural cream, brown, and gray

Production Techniques

Hand-loom weavingTraditional
Heavy fabric woven on traditional floor looms

Production Notes

Hand-loomed from locally spun sheep wool on floor looms. Undyed natural wool creates the stripe patterns. Some include simple geometric motifs. Production: 1–3 weeks.

Quality Indicators

Authenticity

Lanolin-rich wool smell

Quality

Heavy weight and dense weave

Price Ranges

Budget200 – 500 MAD(~$20 – $50)

Thinner weight, smaller size

Mid-range500 – 1200 MAD(~$50 – $120)

Full-size, good weight, natural stripes

Premium1200 – 2500 MAD(~$120 – $250)

Extra-heavy, large, finest wool, geometric motifs