How Are Area Rugs Made? - Cashmere, Wool and Silk directory

The method of weaving most used in making a handmade rug is the pile weaves. In the pile weave, the rugs are then woven by a creation of knots. A short piece of yarn is tied around two warp strands creating a knot on the surface of the rug. After making each row of knots, one or more stands of weft are passed through a complete set of warp strands. Then the knots and the strands are beaten with a comb to secure the knots in place.

Machine made area rugs have flexibility and variety. You can find similar designs in different sizes and colors from several different manufacturers. Handmade rugs are custom made. They are one of a kind design with brilliant uses of color. With handmade area rugs, even if the same pattern is created, you will still have unique details woven into the design.

Handmade rugs will also last longer; they are made with natural dyes that provide the colors with a longer staying power. When investing in your area rugs you will want to buy handmade. These rugs can and will last a lifetime or longer. They are a valuable investment. You will find handmade rugs passed down from generation to generation. They are loved and cherished heirlooms that become priceless to the owner.

Weave, knot, and dye are the three things that go into handmade rugs. First you will need to learn what weave is. Weave is what is used in making a handmade rug. The three major techniques are the pile weave, flat weave and hand tufted.

The method of weaving most used in making a handmade rug is the pile weaves. In the pile weave the rug is woven by a creation of knots. A short piece of yarn is tied around two warp strands creating a knot on the surface of the rug. After making each row of knots, one or more stands of weft are passed through a complete set of warp strands. Then the knots and the strands are beaten with a comb to secure the knots in place.

Every knot is hand tied; a rug can consist of any where from 30 knots to 1000 knots per inch. A professional weaver can tie a knot in less than ten seconds. Handmade rugs are exceptional, beautiful works of art created with time and patience. The flat weave is a technique of weaving that uses no knots in the weave. This is done by passing the weft strands through the warp strands.

These rugs are beautiful and have a personality all their own. Hand tufted rugs are made without tying knots in the foundation, but by pushing wool or yarn through the primary backing. This creates a 'tuft'. The rug maker will then use a latex glue to hold the tufts in place and apply a second foundation, which is then covered by a third and final cloth backing.

These are just a few of the ways a rug is made by hand. A lot of time and patience goes into these handmade area rugs. They may cost more, but they will last longer. This is not to say that machine made rugs is not exceptional all on their own. Machine made rugs are beautiful and last a long time also. They are very affordable and you can find just about any style, color, or size you want. When picking a rug it is entirely up to you which rug you prefer. They are both magnificent works of art. -- iS