ABOUT US
From collecting antique rugs to crafting one of Afghanistan’s best selling rugs. We have a story to tell…
HISTORY
A Humble Background
The company’s origin can be traced back to the 1960s when Mr. Khal Mohammad, a legendary rug expert, began his journey in the rug weaving industry by collecting antique rugs. Starting from humble origins, he began collaborating with women from his hometown and neighboring villages in Northern regions of Afghanistan who skillfully hand-wove rugs. With great passion and dedication, Mr. Khal introduced their creations to the global market, effectively creating a bridge that connected Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage through century-old preserved patterned rugs to customers around the world. He then introduced his very own collection, Khal Mohammadi rugs which gained global recognition and became synonymous with Afghan culture due to their unique organic dyeing technique, vibrant red colors, velvety textures, and distinctive geometric patterns. Today, our operations span across three continents – North America(USA), Europe, and Asia.
“Mr. Khal Mohammad (on the right) in his production house in Afghanistan, 1998.”
OUR FOUNDERS
Meet Habib and Elif
Habib, a third-generation member of a family who founded Khal Mohammadi rugs, and Elif who grew witnessing her family’s talent for various handicraft techniques recognized the issue of low-quality rugs being sold at inflated prices without proper information about their origin and history. Having met as university students and bonding over their shared passion for handmade crafts, Habib and Elif founded Yamil Craft with the aim of upholding this delicate craft legacy by honestly pricing the rugs while also showcasing their captivating background stories to the global market.
OUR FACTORY
No Middlemen Involved
Our manufacturing facility is located in Aqcha, a Northern region of Afghanistan. The majority, over 90%, of our skilled weavers are local women who work from their homes in Aqcha. This provides a reliable income for approximately 2500 families who would otherwise struggle to find work opportunities. Our entire production cycle, from meticulous selection of high-quality wool to packaging, takes place within one centralized location to ensure consistent quality at every step. We prioritize environmental sustainability by abstaining from the use of machinery in order to minimize carbon footprint and leave zero traces on the environment. Especially, in a day when everything we use is replaced by industrial machine-made products.
SUSTAINABLY CRAFTED TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF OUR PLANET
MEET OUR TEAM
Habib KHAL
Founder
Elif Puren GUNAY
Founder
Mev ALIZADE
Blogger