SBNomadicRugs - Weaving Techniques

Weaving Techniques

In general, synthetic materials are not used in traditional rug making. Cotton, wool and silk are most commonly used. Older Perian rugs have the finest wool and silk. Chinese rugs are primarily silk.

The foundation of the rug consists of 'warp' (length) and 'weft' (width.) Undyed wool is often used for the warp and weft. Finer pieces often use cotton.

The fringe technique will be braiding, knotting, or twisting.

Color dyes in traditional rug making could be made from fruits, vegitables, bark, or fungi. For example, madder root can be used for reds while indigo plants are used for blues. Natural colors are fast but do fade over time especially if left in direct sunlight. However, many buyers find the "antique" look desireable.

Handmade rugs tend to be more durable than machine made, and are more environmentally friendly.

There are several loom types:
horizontal (usually smaller rugs)
verticle (usually used in cities)
rollerbeam