1. Hand - Knotted Hand-knotting is the most intricate, labor-intensive rug weaving process in use today. The quality of a hand-knotted carpet is determined by the number of knots per square inch. Higher knots mean better quality. A complex pattern can require very dense knotting and it can take a long time to produce. An average weaver can tie about 3,000 knots per day. A weaver sits behind a loom and hand ties individual knots onto the vertical strings seen on the backside of a rug. The back of hand-knotted rugs shows individual knots and the overall design and colors of the rug’s surface. Durability: Longest lasting. Good ones will last 10-25 years. Great ones can last 100+ years. Shedding: Shed less than a typical hand tufted rug.
2. Hand - Tufted A hand-tufted rug is made by punching strands of wool into a canvas which is stretched on a frame or with help of a hand-operated tool. After piling with wool, the rug is removed from the frame and a scrim fabric is glued to the back, while a fringe is added by either sewing on or gluing. A nearly unlimited variety of patterns, colors, and textures can be used in a hand-tufted rug. A canvas backing is applied to hand-tufted rugs with an adhesive to hold the yarns together. Durability: Lasts 3-10 years depending on use. Shedding: They will shed, but this will subside over time. Shedding usually depends on the quality of wool used, and density of the rug. Cheaper hand tufted rugs will shed more than higher-end hand tufted rugs. Manufacturing Time: 4-5 months
3. Hand - Hooked Hand-hooked rugs go through the same process.
Continue reading: Rug Buying Guide: Construction Types
