What is an Oriental rug and what makes them unique?
For a carpet to be classified as a true oriental rug it must be hand knotted and come from any of the traditional carpet producing countries of the world.
This includes Persians, Indians, Kashmiris and a host of other styles.
Oriental rugs are different from all others in that their pile (usually wool) is tied to their foundations. That is why they are referred to as hand-knotted rugs, and that, more than anything, accounts for why they last so long—often many years in use. This also accounts for their high Value. Carpet making has also historically evolved as an Art form and as with other art form the value and beauty remains subjective.
What is an Abrash?
A change in color in the field or border of a rug is called and ‘Abrash’. The color change extends across the rug, left to right, following a weft yarn and this is due to differences in wool or dye batches used in the weaving of the rug. Rather than being seen as a flaw an Abrash is appreciated by carpet lovers as a testament of handwork.
I am on a budget, could I still afford an Oriental rug?
It is a misnomer that all oriental rugs are unreasonably expensive. If you are on a budget you could still buy a great carpet. Consider selecting pieces that are newer and it is a big factor influencing raw material and labour costs. Silk yarn is more expensive than wool, and silk carpets also require more time and skill to weave because of the more intricate patterns.
How much time does it take to make a Carpet?
Manufacture time would depend on carpet size and intricacy involved. A small 3’ x 5 ’ rug could take several months to make, while a medium-sized rug (5’ x 8’) could take a year. Some of the museum quality Antique pieces or the very intricate silk masterpieces could take years.
Should I buy a rug if I have pets or small children?
The most important factor of Oriental rugs is their Quality. Apart from their beauty it is their durability that makes them so highly sought after. Pets and children should not deter you from buying fine rugs. Hand-knotted carpets are made to weather; they’re made to endure high traffic and wear and tear that is why they last for decades. A high traffic area would demand a rug of high quality i.e. a hand-knotted one.
I have allergies should I buy an oriental rug?
All our carpets are manufactured using natural dyes (flowers and vegetables) and natural fibres (wool, silk and cotton); they should not cause or aggravate allergies. If you’re sensitive to dust, the regular vacuuming or brushing of carpets should put at rest those concerns.
I was gifted a damaged carpet, can it be restored?
Yes, Royal Carpet Restorations has professionals on hand to evaluate and restore your piece, no matter how intricate their designs be.
What items can I place on top of my carpets?
Most items commonly found in a household or business (i.e. tables, chairs, couches) can be placed on carpets. Items should be periodically moved forward and back over the course of a year to prevent any uneven crushing of the carpet’s pile.
Plants should never be placed on top of the carpet, even with a water basin beneath the pot. Any leakage can damage the carpet.
Certification
We provide certification of all our carpets. A certificate of authenticity will be provided to you given carpet genealogy, approximate age and relevant information on symbols and motifs.
How are carpets best maintained and stored?
- The best way to preserve a carpet is to keep it dust free. Dust eats into the foundation and reduces its life. Carpets should also be aired regularly in mild sunlight for 3-4hours a few times per year. The carpets should not be washed at home or dry cleaned but sent to a professional old carpet cleaner and hand washed without any use of chemicals but only natural herbs safoof.
- Note that most carpets that are packed and left unused attracts moths, insects, which attacks woolen items in humid conditions. If storing carpets, they should not be packed In plastic but in a cotton or muslin cloth. One can use anti-moth agents in storage but the anti-moth agents should never be in direct contact with the carpet.
