RUGS
  • Custom Rugs

  • A Custom Organic Rug Story

    November 29, 2024 4 min read


    Ordering a custom organic rug is an exciting and personalized process, as it involves working closely with our design team to create a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your style and meets your specific needs.


    It's a labor of love for us and for our clients to see a their vision for a rug come to life.


    The entire process is deeply collaborative, allowing you to create a rug that is not just a functional floorcovering but a piece of art that reflects your personal style and complements your space.

    Utah Custom Rug Project

    This custom organic rug project took many twists and turns in design and color. That's the beauty of a totally custom rug; you get to make as many changes as you like until your vision is realized.


    At one point out client sent us this hand sketched drawing, indicating the following elements: a "sunset" on the left and a "river" running through the rug.


    We translated this sketch into a rendering (on the right):

    Hand drswan sketch for custom rug
    Rendering

    We worked on various drawings for the client, proposing a textured white "river" and a black "river", and changing the position of the "sunset". At one point we even had a grey mountain range in this design!


    We sent several renderings to show our client what their preferred designs would look like in their space.


    Here are a couple of examples:




                    


    Once we settled on the design, we created 3 different samples for the client's approval.


    Our client approved the 3rd sample, and the weaving of this extra large, custom organic rug began.


    Many months later, we shipped the rug directly to our client's home. 


    Our client sent a photo of the rug being installed:



    Here is a breakdown of the project, by the numbers:

    Utah Rug Project By The Numbers

    And finally, the custom organic rug installed in its new home, and our client wrote "the rug is amazing":             

    Custom Rug Utah Private Client

    Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect when ordering a custom organic rug:


    1. Initial Consultation

    • Purpose & Function : The first step is to discuss the purpose of the rug—whether it's for a living room, bedroom, office, or any other space. You’ll talk about the rug's intended function: Should it be soft underfoot? Is it for a high-traffic area? Do you need something easy to clean?
    • Design Vision : You’ll share your ideas, preferences, and any inspiration you have. This could include color schemes, patterns, textures, and even a particular theme or aesthetic.
    • Size & Shape : You’ll provide the exact measurements for the rug, and you might discuss different shapes (rectangular, round, square, etc.), depending on the space and the layout.

    2. Material Selection

    • Fibers : The material is one of the most important aspects of a custom rug. Organic Weave custom rugs are made exclusively in certified organic wool.
    • Textures: We offer a variety of textures from shag, to cut pile to loop pile.
    • Pile Height : The height of the rug’s pile (the length of the fibers) can be customized. Shorter piles are more durable and easy to maintain, while longer piles give a plush, luxurious feel but can be more prone to wear.
    • Colors : You’ll choose the color palette, and the yarn will be hand-dyed using GOTS approved non-toxic dyes.

    3. Design Drafting

    • After gathering all your input, our design team will create a design draft or rendering of the rug. This digital mock-up illustrates the pattern, color, and size.
    • You’ll review the design and provide feedback. At this stage, you can request changes or refinements to ensure that the rug perfectly aligns with your vision.

    4. Samples

    • We recommend a sample for every custom organic rug order. This small sample will show the design, colors and texture of your rug.

    5. Production Phase

    • Weaving/Knotting : Our artisans will begin the process of weaving or knotting the rug. Hand-knotted rugs are created on a loom with knots tied individually. The more intricate the design, the longer the process may take.
    • Quality Control : Throughout production, the rug will be checked for consistency in pattern, color, and texture. Artisans will also ensure that the rug's finish is flawless.

    6. Customization Details

    • Fringes & Borders : You can select specific types of borders, fringes, or finishes to give your rug a unique touch.

    7. Final Review

    • Once the rug is complete, it will be carefully inspected to ensure it matches the agreed-upon design and quality standards.

    7. Shipping and Delivery

    • After approval, the rug is packed securely for delivery. Given the delicate nature of handmade rugs, extra care is taken during packaging to prevent any damage during transport.
    • Delivery times can vary depending on the complexity of the rug, the materials used, and the artisans’ workload. Custom rugs typically take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on these factors.


    Tips for a Successful Custom Rug Order:


    • Be clear about your preferences from the start, but stay open to the expertise of our design team—you might discover new design elements or materials that enhance your vision.
    • Consider durability as well as aesthetics. Think about your lifestyle (e.g., do you have pets, children, or heavy traffic?) and make choices accordingly.
    • Budget appropriately —handmade custom organic rugs tend to be an investment, and the price can vary based on the complexity and size.

    How is A Custom Organic Rug Made?

    Every custom organic rug from Organic Weave is made according to the strict protocol established by GOTS:


    • Raw materials are from traceable, certified organic producers.
    • Cleaning or scouring raw materials uses biodegradable cleansing agents.
    • Water is used in a sustainable way throughout processing.
    • No synthetic agents or oils are used in spinning process.
    • Yarn is dyed using Global Organic Textile Standard approved dye stuffs.
    • Farmers and Fabricators are treated fairly.
    • Rugs are finished with no harmful chemicals or detergents.

    Organic Weave Weaver
    Organic Weave
    Linda Alexanian Image

    The Author: Linda Alexanian

    "I believe that a truly beautiful rug is one that is impeccably hand crafted by artisans who are treated fairly and made with materials that are in harmony with nature.Non-toxic production is healthier for everyone - the artisans, the planet, and you."


    Linda is the Founder of Organic Weave. As a third generation rug merchant, Linda is passionate about the art of making handmade rugs with all natural materials.

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