A hand-knotted rug is an investment. If you’re spending extra on something crafted by artisans, you want to be sure that it’s built to last.
Read on to learn what a hand-knotted rug is, how long they typically last, and what you can do to prolong the lifespan of your rug!
What is a hand-knotted rug?
A hand-knotted rug is so called because of the way that it’s constructed. It isn’t made by a machine. Instead, artisans weave it using techniques that can be traced back centuries.
Hand-knotted rugs, also known as Oriental rugs, are made on a vertical loom. They consist of many thousands of knots, each one inserted by hand using patience and precise craftsmanship.
Hand-knotted rugs are more expensive than other kinds because they are considered to be Heirloom Quality. Their careful construction makes them very hard wearing.
This means that with the right care, they could last a lifetime!
How to spot a hand-knotted rug:
Machine-made rugs will have totally uniform knots. However, hand-knotted rugs won’t have the same symmetry. You might notice areas where the weaving is slightly uneven in size.
Turn your rug over. If it’s handmade, the pattern and design will still be clearly visible. The more knots you can observe from the back, the better quality your rug is.
Machine-made rugs usually have a latex or linen backing; however, some hand-knotted rugs also have a backing, so this isn’t a guaranteed point of differentiation.
Make sure you buy your rug from a reputable vendor to ensure that you receive the hand-knotted rug that you’re paying for.
What are the advantages of hand-knotted rugs?
When you buy a rug that’s been woven by hand, you know it’s completely unique. No two hand-knotted rugs could be exactly the same.
Hand-knotted rugs are made from natural fibers as opposed to synthetic materials. They are usually made from wool, silk, or a combination of the two.
These materials make very durable fibers that don’t shed, last longer, and can be cleaned more easily. Wool is also an amazing insulator, so your rug will help keep your living space cozy!
How to make a hand-knotted rug last longer:
Although hand-knotted rugs are known for their durability, there are certain steps you can take to ensure their longevity.
1. Buy a rug pad.
This will protect both your rug and your floor.
2. Rotate your rug.
This way, parts that are exposed to more sunlight or traffic are routinely switched around.
3. Clean it properly.
As well as hoovering your rug at least once or twice a week, you should get it thoroughly cleaned by a professional cleaning company on a regular basis.
4. Don’t wear shoes indoors.
Rugs that are exposed to the pressure of heavy footfall experience more stress than those placed in shoeless households.
Buying a hand-knotted rug
If you’re looking for a high quality hand-knotted rug, check out Rug Source’s extensive collection.
There, you’ll find hand-knotted rugs in a range of designs, from abstract to animal print.
Read our other blog posts on Hand-Knotted Rugs:
- https://rugsource.com/how-can-you-tell-the-quality-of-a-hand-knotted-rug/
- https://rugsource.com/do-all-hand-knotted-rugs-have-fringe/
- https://rugsource.com/where-are-hand-knotted-rugs-made/
- 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/
