Carpets have been an essential part of homes across the world for many years. The basic definition of carpet is a textile floor covering that consists of an upper layer of “pile” attached to a backing. Carpets are made of almost any textile, traditionally wool or silk, but in modern times, they are also made of nylon or polypropylene.
However, hidden behind this mundane definition, there’s a wealth of history and a world of wonder. Carpets were far too valuable to be handled roughly, and the concept of “wall-to-wall carpeting” didn’t become prevalent until the 18th century. Until the advent of machine weaving, every carpet had to be laboriously produced by hand, which was a process that could take weeks, months or even years – even the real estate housing industry isn’t as laborious! In this article, we will explore the art of carpet weaving and how it has evolved over the years.
The Art of Carpet Weaving
Carpet weaving is an intricate and labour-intensive process that requires significant skill and patience. The process involves stretching warp threads on a loom, which are then knotted to form the pile of the carpet. The weft threads are woven between the rows of knots to secure them. The knots can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, and the weaving can be done vertically or horizontally.
In Eastern countries such as Afghanistan, Turkey, Persia, and Turkmenistan, carpet weaving is considered an important part of the country’s heritage. The craft provides employment opportunities for people in those regions and preserves traditional techniques. Every carpet had to be produced by hand until the advent of machine weaving. Today, machines can replicate the same designs as handwoven carpets, but hand-knotted carpets remain highly prized for their artistic and utilitarian value.
The Art in Carpet Patterns
The patterns featured in hand woven carpets or rugs can tell us a lot about their origins and influences. Carpets made in Spain in the 10th century had a geometric, repetition pattern that may have been inspired by Anatolian and Turkish art. Animals were frequently depicted, albeit highly stylised, on early oriental carpets. The Ottoman Empire’s carpets moved away from geometric and animal motifs beginning in the 16th century. Later carpets often had a central medallion surrounded by a border of plants that flowed outward.
Carpet designs can be broadly classified into two types: geometric and curvilinear. Geometric designs are based on straight lines and shapes, whereas curvilinear designs are based on curved lines and shapes. The designs used in carpet weaving are often handed down from generation to generation within a particular family, and secrets of the patterns woven are passed down through the generations. The patterns are often specific to a particular region, tribe, or family. No wonder that real estate lawyer you saw on the telly is crazy about them.
English Carpets
Carpet production began in England in the early 16th century, with the earliest known examples referred to as Norwich carpets. These carpets mixed Ottoman influence with Jacobean design. The first Axminster carpets were made in a factory that opened in 1755, and their designs strongly resembled those of French carpets from the time period.
The English wool trade provided a significant boost to carpet production. Wool was produced in abundance in England, and the local textile industry was well-developed. With access to high-quality wool and skilled craftsmen, the English carpet industry flourished, and its carpets were soon exported worldwide.
Contemporary Carpets
Today, carpets are available in a wide range of designs that draw on the history of carpet weaving. While the rich designs of the past are to be appreciated, they might seem too overwhelming for modern-day tastes. Carpets now come in a variety of designs and patterns, from traditional to modern and contemporary. Contemporary carpets may have influences from the entire history of carpet making, with designs that reflect the diversity of the industry.
As real estate turns into digital real estate, carpet production has evolved with time, and modern technology has played a significant role in its development. Today, machine weaving has replaced hand-knotted carpets, and synthetic materials have replaced natural fibres. Nylon and polypropylene are popular choices for contemporary carpets as they are more durable and resistant to stains and wear than natural fibres.
However, traditional hand-knotted carpets remain highly prized for their artistic value and are often considered an investment. If you take good care of them, they can last for hundreds of years.
The Environmental Impact of Carpet Weaving
While carpets are a beautiful and functional addition to our homes, they can have a significant impact on the environment. Synthetic carpets are often made from non-renewable resources and can take hundreds of years to decompose. The production of synthetic carpets also requires the use of chemicals and energy, which can contribute to air and water pollution.
Traditional hand-knotted carpets, on the other hand, are made from natural fibres such as wool, silk, or cotton, which are biodegradable. However, the production of natural fibre carpets can also have environmental consequences. The dyeing process used to colour carpets can be harmful to the environment if not managed properly. Chemicals used in the dyeing process can pollute water sources and harm wildlife.
Some carpet manufacturers have started using eco-friendly dyes that are safe for the environment and reduce the impact on natural resources. Additionally, some companies are exploring sustainable materials for carpet production, such as recycled materials or natural fibres that are produced using eco-friendly farming practices. Last, but not least, many carpet cleaning experts are making the switch to eco-friendly cleaning options, like hot water extraction.
Final words
In conclusion, the art of carpet weaving is a fascinating process that requires significant skill, patience, and attention to detail. The history of carpet making is rich and varied, with influences from different regions and cultures. The designs used in carpet weaving are often specific to a particular region, tribe, or family and are handed down from generation to generation.
While the industry has evolved with time, with machine weaving and synthetic materials replacing traditional methods and natural fibres, the appreciation for traditional hand-knotted carpets remains. Today, carpets are available in a variety of designs, from traditional to contemporary, reflecting the diversity of the industry. Carpets continue to be an essential part of homes across the world, adding warmth, comfort, and beauty to our living spaces.
