If you’re investing in a hand-knotted rug, you want to know you’re receiving value for money. That means ensuring that your rug is of the highest quality.
Less reputable vendors will of course assure you that you’re getting the very best—even if that isn’t quite the case…
Thankfully, there are proven ways to tell whether your hand-knotted rug is worth buying. Here, the experts at Rug Source share their industry secrets.
- The number of knots per square inch
There is a practical reason that it’s better to have more knots per square inch: it means that your rug is denser which makes it more durable. It also means that more labor has gone into the construction of your rug, which gives it a higher value and assures its quality.
- Variations in knot size
This might sound counterintuitive: surely a higher quality rug would be completely consistent and “perfect” in its appearance? However, variation occurs due to the rug’s hand-knotted nature. Only machines can produce perfectly uniform knots, and you’re paying for the artisanship of something hand-crafted. Consider variation a sure sign of quality!
- Variation in color
The same applies with color. You may be surprised to learn that slight changes within the colors of your rug are an indication of quality. This is because it’s impossible to hand-dye wool so that the color remains exactly the same. When your rug comes from small-scale artisans, you will notice some deviation in the tones and shades.
- Detailed pattern
Of course, patterns are a matter of personal preference; however, in terms of objective value, hand-knotted rugs with more intricate designs are considered higher quality. It makes sense when you think about it: very detailed designs require more craftsmanship, which is why they are generally worth more money in the rug marketplace. - Quality of materials
When we talk about hand-knotted rugs, we are talking about rugs that use natural materials. Wool or silk are the most popular materials used to construct these rugs. To ensure your hand-knotted rug is of the highest quality possible, ensure that it uses unadulterated wools or silks, hand-spun if you can find it! - Type of dye used
You might think it would be the opposite, but natural dyes are actually more resistant than synthetic ones. That’s why you should look for naturally-dyed rugs when you’re shopping for a high quality item. Natural dye is also better for the environment because they aren’t toxic, and you’ll find that they have a pleasing, organic appearance.
- Length of pile
Although you might think a long, lush pile is linked to luxury, the opposite is usually true! Rugs with a short pile are generally considered superior because there’s a belief that a long pile might be designed to disguise flaws in the rug, whereas with a short pile you can see exactly how it was constructed. - Antique status
An antique rug that has been well maintained is considered high quality because it’s already proven that it can stand the test of time. People also like to buy storied items that have a history, which is why antiques are popular in general. As a result, you’ll find that antique rugs have a higher price tag to match their high value.
If you’re looking for a hand-knotted rug of quality, check out the extensive collection available at Rug Source. We’re experts when it comes to area rugs, so you can count on our products being the best around.
Read our other blog posts on Hand-Knotted Rugs:
- https://rugsource.com/do-all-hand-knotted-rugs-have-fringe/
- https://rugsource.com/where-are-hand-knotted-rugs-made/
- https://rugsource.com/how-long-does-a-hand-knotted-rug-last/
- https://rugsource.com/the-benefits-of-handmade-rugs/
- https://rugsource.com/comparing-hand-woven-and-hand-knotted-rugs-what-to-know-about-these-hand-made-rugs/
- https://rugsource.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-hand-knotted-and-hand-woven-rug/
- https://rugsource.com/how-to-clean-hand-knotted-rugs/
- https://rugsource.com/hand-knotted-vs-hand-tufted-rugs-how-can-you-tell-the-difference/
