What Makes Hand-Knotted Rugs So Unique?
When shopping for rugs, there are many terms used to describe everything from the dyes used to the pile texture to the method of rug construction. One term you will notice frequently used at Holly Peters Oriental Rugs & Home is “hand-knotted”. We take great care to select high quality rugs, knotted by hand, because we believe it makes all the difference.
How are hand-knotted rugs made and why are they so unique? In this blog entry, we’ll explain what sets them apart.
What Is A Hand-Knotted Rug?
The oldest hand-knotted rug on record is a Persian rug that dates back to the 4th century B.C. Since then, their popularity has gone through cycles, but the time and effort put into them – and the stunning designs created – has remained unchanged.
A hand-knotted rug is truly a work of art for your floor. Each knot is individually tied to a foundation to create the intricate designs on the finished products. The number of knots can easily reach thousands or even millions on larger area rugs.
Depending on the type of rug, it’s pattern, and the fabric used, there could be anywhere between 100 – 300 knots per square inch. Because these rugs can be very dense and intricate they also take a great deal of time to make. Some oriental rugs take a weaver months or even years to complete.
How Do They Differ From Flatweave and Hand-Tufted Rugs?
A hand-tufted rug may sound similar, but it is actually an entirely separate process of rug construction. Although they are considered good quality and more durable than machine made rugs, they don’t compare to the craftsmanship that goes into a hand-knotted rug.
A hand-tufted rug is made by stretching a piece of canvas over a frame and punching strands of wool into it. Once it is completed the canvas is removed from the frame, given a backing to keep the tufts secure, and then completed with a bit of fringe either sewn or glued on.
This process is much quicker than the time is takes to complete a hand-knotted rug, which makes them an easier alternative. However, if you’re looking for a true heirloom piece that will stand the test of time, a hand-knotted rug is your best choice.
A flatweave rug, sometimes referred to as hand-woven, is another popular rug style. Flatweave rugs are constructed without the use of knots. They are created using horizontal and vertical threads (weft and warp threads) that are woven together to create the length and width of a rug. Flatweave rugs are created with the help of a loom, and can be quite intricate.
Because this type of rug is created on a loom, they do not have a pile and are completely flat, hence the term flatweave. This provides a very different feel to hand-knotted rugs, which do have a pile.
What’s The Difference Between Hand-Knotted and Machine Made Rugs?
The obvious difference between a hand-knotted rug and a machine made rug is that one is created skillfully by hand, and one is mass produced by a machine. There are other differences though that ultimately affect the quality.
The care that goes into creating a hand-knotted rug, with the use of natural fibers and dyes makes them of superior quality. A machine made rug can be made with natural fibers, but is more commonly made with synthetic fibers and chemical dyes.
The use of inferior materials severely decreases the lifespan of the rug. A hand-knotted oriental rug can last generations if taken care of properly. The typical lifespan of a machine made rug is only 20 years.
Another drawback of machine made rugs is the lack of originality. To create a hand-knotted rug, someone uniquely knotted a pattern which may not be made exactly the same again. A machine made rug can be made so quickly that each design can be mass produced.
Why Buy A Hand-Knotted Rug?
In general, purchasing rugs can be an expensive endeavor. This is why we believe in providing only the highest quality rugs, to get the most value for your money.
A hand-knotted rug is not only a stunning addition to any room, but it is a piece of art that will last for years to come. If taken care of properly, they will be heirloom pieces passed down for generations! To find the perfect hand-knotted rug to complete your home, shop our rugs in store at Holly Peters Oriental Rugs and Home.