Hand-Knotted Rugs: What Are They and How Are They Made?

If you're currently in the market for a new rug, you've probably come across a range of terminology that sounds pretty similar. One great example of this is the term “hand-tufting” and another term, “hand-knotting”. While both methods can produce high quality rugs, it's the hand-knotting approach we'll be focusing on with today's blog post. So let's find out what all the fuss is about!

What is a hand-knotted rug?

The biggest question you probably have is, well, what exactly is a hand-knotted rug and how does it differ from rugs produced by other techniques? At a fundamental level, a hand-knotted rug is exactly what it sounds like. Rather than having a machine do the work automatically, a hand-knotted rug involves a technician working a loom by hand to created each and every knot that makes up the actual fibre pile. Naturally, this process can be more time-consuming; but it can't be denied that hand-knotted rugs offer exceptional build quality and unique character. With introductions taken care of, let’s now look at the actual process of making a hand-knotted rug.

How hand-knotted rugs are made

Despite the name sounding as though the rug is made entirely by hand, this weaver still requires a loom to create a hand-knotted rug. It’s actually the way in which the threads are woven together that gives hand-knotted rugs their unique characteristics. Here’s how it works:

1. Vertical threads (the warp) are tied to the loom.
2. The horizontal threads (the weft) is intertwined with the warp.
3. The rug-maker then ties tiny knots to the warp threads.
4. Using a hook or knife, the rug-maker cuts the knot then ties it manually by hand. The knot is then tightened.
5. Rinse and repeat!

In the hands of an experienced weaver, each of these tiny knots can be tied once per second, making the process fascinating to watch – and a real labour of love!

The benefits of hand-knotted rugs

Now that you know how much care and attention goes into each knot of a hand-knotted rug’s pile, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. The fact that each knot is finished by hand means that hand-knotted rugs generally stand the test of time far better than synthetic alternatives. No glue or adhesive of any kind is used in the production, so these rugs don’t decay or degrade over time. In addition, a hand-knotted rug has a unique character that’s simply impossible to beat with any other form of rug manufacture.

Feeling intrigued about what a premium hand-knotted rug might do for your home? Explore our extensive rug collection now to find yours, or call our friendly team anytime on 0845 838 8638.