The Process - Handknotted

Handknotted Rugs

Handknotting rugs is an ancient art. Depending on the technique and size of the rug, a handknotted rug may take weeks, months, or even years to complete.

We offer rugs made with Tibetan knotting or Persian knotting - in both cases, walking on a knotted rug is a treat - the soft, smooth surface of luscious wool or cotton is so soft underfoot.

Our Knotted rugs are made to be enjoyed for years and years - heirlooms to pass along to the next generation.

How are knotted rugs made?

To begin making a rug, our skilled weavers make a foundation – called “the warp” – which consists of thick threads of cotton or wool which run through the length of the rug. Similar threads, which pass under and over the warp threads in the opposite direction, are called wefts.

Weaving usually begins from the bottom of the loom. Dyed wool or cotton is knotted in rows around the warp strands. As more knots are added to this foundation, they become the pile of the rug. Depending upon the fineness of the weave, the quality of the materials, and the expertise of the weavers, the knot count of a rug can range from sixteen to eight-hundred per square inch.

When a rug is completely knotted, the warp ends remain as the fringe. This fringe may be braided, tasseled, or hidden.

Handknotted rugs are available in 100% organic wool or 100% organic cotton. Wool is always recommended over cotton, as wool is a superior fiber for rugs and carpets, it will last longer and wear better.

What is an ORGANIC RUG?

(Every rug we make is certified organic by GOTS)

Organic Weave is the only rug company in the world that has earned the coveted GOTS label for all of its rugs. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the most comprehensive, internationally recognized standard in the textile industry today. 

Our entire process is monitored – from the first cultivation of our fibers, to the final dyeing and washing stages of our process. Only non toxic materials are allowed by GOTS. Our certification is a promise that we:

• Source raw materials from traceable, certified organic producers

• Clean or scour raw materials using biodegradable cleansing agents

• Use water in a sustainable way throughout processing

• Use no synthetic agents or oils in our spinning process

• Dye our yarn using Global Organic Textile Standard approved dye stuffs

• Finish our rugs with no harmful chemicals or detergents