11
Oct
2020
All you need to know about 100-knots rugs
Tibetan carpet making is a revered ancient craft, deeply rooted in tradition and artistry.
At Rugs & Carpets by MANDALAS LIFE INC we honor the rich heritage of handmade rug and carpet weaving from the Himalayas while seamlessly integrating it into contemporary lifestyles.
Table of Contents
Traditional context
These exquisite carpets are traditionally crafted from Tibetan Highland sheep’s wool known as changpen.
Initially, Tibetan carpets served utilitarian purposes, allowing for a wide range of artistic expression.
For centuries, Tibetans have utilized carpets for both decorative and functional roles, employing geometric patterns, auspicious symbols, mythical creatures, and natural imagery to create stunning, colorful designs.
Interestingly, carpets can also serve as carriers of “encrypted” messages.
In today’s world, carpets are crafted according to the preferences and designs of customers, and Rugs & Carpets exemplifies this modern approach while staying true to traditional craftsmanship.
100 Knots Tibetan Rug
The knot is the traditional measure of 100-knots carpets.
The quality of Tibetan carpets is directly proportional to the number of knots; thus, a carpet with a higher knot count is significantly more valuable.
Knots are typically measured as the total number of knots per square inch, and this density helps determine the carpet’s quality.
A knot count of over 100 is regarded as very high quality, and the thickness and width of the carpets correlate with the number of knots used per square inch.
At Rugs & Carpets we specialize in high-quality 100 knots carpets that feature intricate curvilinear motifs, allowing for stunning designs that are clear and vibrant.
100 vs 60 Knots Tibetan Rug
Let’s explore the features of Tibetan 100 knots carpets compared to 60-knots carpets:
- 60 knots carpets are much thicker compared to 100 knots.
- 60 knots carpets are less effective for intricate motifs and symbols as they are more spread out, while 100 knots carpets are perfect for detailed designs.
100 vs 80 Knots Tibetan Rug
When comparing 100 knots to 80 knots carpets:
- 80 knots carpets are thicker than 100 knots.
- Designs and motifs are clearer in 100 knots carpets than in 80 knots carpets.
The Demand for 100 Knots Tibetan Carpet
The demand for 100 knots carpets is increasing daily due to their fine designs and quality.
These carpets are softer and thinner, making them easier to clean and transport, all while maintaining remarkable quality.
The price of the carpet varies based on the number of knots and the complexity of the designs.
At Rugs & Carpets we are proud to meet this growing demand with its commitment to craftsmanship and quality.
Today, the Nepalese carpet industry stands as a vital pillar of the country’s economy, providing numerous employment opportunities, particularly for those in rural areas.
Currently, 95% of rugs are produced in the Kathmandu Valley, which is also the primary export hub for Nepali carpets.
These carpets are exported to over 40 countries, including Germany, the USA, Belgium, Britain, Turkey, Switzerland, Japan, Spain, Canada, and Italy, with Germany and the USA being the largest markets, accounting for more than 45% of total carpet exports.
Unique Knotting System in Tibetan Rugs
One of the secrets of Tibetan history lies in the unique knotting technique used to create Tibetan carpets.
While most of Asia employs either the Turkish knot or the Persian knot (Senneh knot), Tibetan weavers utilize the Tibetan knot.
This method involves wrapping a continuous length of yarn over a rod laid across the warps stretched on the loom.
Once the rod is wrapped for its entire length, a knife is used to cut the yarn into two rows of pile tufts.
This traditional method is believed to date back over 1500 years, with similar techniques found in ancient Egyptian carpets and still employed in parts of Scandinavia.
No other cultures utilize the Tibetan knot, making it a unique aspect of Tibetan craftsmanship.
Whether it was developed independently or adopted from another culture remains a mystery.
However, the geographical isolation of Tibet has not hindered its historical ties through trade routes.
Today, Rugs & Carpets continues to showcase this unique knotting system, ensuring that each carpet reflects the tradition, craftsmanship, and quality that defines Tibetan weaving.
