The Art of Weaving

First limited to art collectors and interior decorators, Tibetan/Nepalese rugs have now caught the interest of many Americans who recognize the exceptional value and durability of these rugs. Due to their handcrafted appearance, characterized by highly stylized patterns and beautifully orchestrated color schemes, American consumers have come to appreciate the timeless beauty of these rugs.

The "weavers-in-exile" have begun to expand their artistic horizons. Chinese design elements such as the dragon, phoenix, and lotus symbols can now be found in Tibetan/Nepalese rugs. Patterns from other non Tibetan traditions such as Persian, Turkish, French, and Native American Southwestern motifs are now used by Tibetan artisans. In addition, weavers have begun to work closely with consumers to bring life to individual designs and color schemes.

Whatever their ethnic origins, Tibetan/Nepalese rugs have a compelling simplicity enhanced by a color spectrum spanning the rainbow from rich reds and blues to the softer lavenders and grays. Both natural vegetable and synthetic dyes are used to enrich the artisans palette of colors.

 

Technical Aspects of Tibetan/Nepalese Rugs

Generally the wool used in these fine rugs is carded and spun by hand. This gives the rugs a wonderful look with a depth and richness achieved through subtle variations (abrash effect) of color and texture. Our rugs are woven exclusively from Himalayan wool which is characteristically flexible, strong, lustrous and springy. The rich luster of these rugs is actually enhanced by the passage of time. However, the majority of rugs are woven from a blend of Tibetan and New Zealand wools. In 'Decorative Rugs", rugs are woven using hand spun high Himalayan Wool only.

Knot counts determine the depth of the pile and the intricacy of design. Counts vary from thirty to one hundred and fifty knots per square inch. The majority of rugs produced have an average knot count of about fifty knots per square inch. The vertical looms used today are larger than their native ancestors. Using these larger looms we can meet the demand for room sized rugs.

 

While the looms currently in use are larger than the traditional looms, the ancient techniques that characterize Tibetan rugs have been maintained. Tibetan weaving utilizes the "axis rod", (warp divider), and "gauge rod", (needle), the tools which are not found in other rug weaving traditions. The use of these unique methods provides the characteristic surface texture found in all genuine Tibetan/Nepalese rugs.

Tibetan/Nepalese rugs are increasingly coming into their own in the United States causing considerable excitement among American buyers. Because they impart the rustic charm of their traditional Tibetan counterparts while featuring fashion oriented colors and designs they can be seen in an increasing number of American homes. Once the province of museums and rich collectors, these fine rugs with bold, eclectic patterns and colors are now affordable for the homeowner. Heightened by the rich texture characteristic of their ancient counterparts these rugs reveal a quality at once primitive and sophisticated. Their timeless beauty once limited to the far reaches of Tibet is now available to consumers around the world.