Carpet and Rugs

Making a handmade wool carpet - Jaipur, India

2012-01-30T21:54:00.000-08:00

Rug Making for children

2012-01-26T22:06:00.000-08:00

Carpet dyeing – A cheaper way renew your carpet

2009-05-19T09:26:00.000-07:00

After long use of carpet the front side of carpet usually became dirty due to many reasons. Due to its dirty the carpet makes our home ugly. We cannot bear the reduction of beauty of our lovely home. But our financial status does not allow for a new carpet than the carpet dyeing may be a better option to restore the beauty of your home.

The cost of dyeing will depend on the status of dirty. If the some spots shown on the carpet than the carpet dyers may repair the design using paints so that its will start looking as original design. If your carpet has simple pattern, it may be turned into a new designed carpet with darker colors. After dyeing once the carpet starts looking as a new carpet. Anyone who does not know about carpet dyeing cannot say that it is a old carpet.

There are many types of commercial dyeing options being provided by carpet dyeing service providers. Which type of dyeing required for your carpet depends upon the status of your carpet. After seeing your carpet dyer can told you the options available for your carpet. You may contact your nearest carpet dyer and let him see your carpet than he can tell you the most reasonable dyeing option to you. You may find dyers online also.

Dyeing of all type of carpets not possible but most carpets may be dyed. You should take a wide enquiry about warranty and quality of dyeing from service providers. The carpet dyeing service providers providing warrantee of dyeing quality in writing. You should discuss about all the related points before dying your carpet.

Do you know about Afshar Carpet?

2009-04-23T02:37:00.000-07:00

Carpet is a very important element of a modern home. A beautiful carpet can provide a great archive look to your home. In continuation to introduce of different types of carpet, I am trying to let you know about Afshar carpet.

This carpet is a Persian carpet. As the title of all Persian carpets are based on the name of Iranian cities, two or tribes, the name of this carpet is also based on the name tribe who developed this beautiful and special carpet design.

In this carpet design many rectangular objects arranged in a nice manner which gives a great geometrical look to this carpet like a Bidjar carpet.

These carpet being made in different sizes, mainly up to 5x8 feet. Afshar carpets usually coming in light natural colors like light red and Ivory. The average price of this carpet fit into the range of $6 to $20 per square feet according to quality (Knot density).

The Afshar tribe who started the weaving of this type of Persian carpet lives in Sharah Baban in the northern area of a main Iranian city Kerman. The famous king Nader shah was also belongs to this Afshar tribal of Iran.

Make shiny your floor with Mahi Tabriz Carpet Design

2009-04-21T09:34:00.001-07:00

Make shiny your floor with Mahi Tabriz Carpet Design

Well known Persian design Tabriz now being popular in the name of Mahi Tabriz. This carpet design is also based on regular Persian carpet pattern Tabriz. Some beautiful changes made this carpet design very saleable.

These carpets designs are being made in a number of nice color combinations. Mainly Black/Black, Red/Black, Ivory/Ivory and Black/Ivory. Manufacturers using silk to provide extra brightness to the carpet design.

As Mahi tabriz carpet is a newer version of Tabriz carpet its not coming many qualities in vast quantity. In the meantime, this type of carpet is being made in 12/12 and 14/14 qualities. This carpet may be found in other knots densities.

Amazing Nain Carpet and Rugs

2009-04-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Amazing Nain Carpet and Rugs

Actually NAIN is the name of a town in central Iran, near city of Isfahan. Nain carpet is a newer design than other Persian carpets. In 1920 a master weaver HABIBIAN was born in the town Nain in Iran. He started weaving new designed carpet that became very popular in all over the world. Habibian has been passed away in 1995 since then his successor running the production the Nain carpets till now. The carpets produced by master weaver Habibian are very hard to find today. But Due to its popularity Nain design carpets are being made by Iranian, Indian and Pakistani carpet manufacturers.

Nain carpets are very nice carpets having unique beautiful look. In patterned design there will a big floral design in the middle of carpet and around this many small floral design with branched sounded it. Nain carpets are being sold good in European and US market. These carpets are coming in wide size range keeping in view the room sizes from 2x3 to 12x18 feet.

If you are looking for Nain carpet for your floors we recommend you to purchase the Nain carpet manufactured in India or other Asian countries. The reason of my recommendation is that the Nain carpets from Iran (Persia) will very costly for you. Due to popularity and high demand of Persian carpets in the world they charge very high. But the same rug you can buy from Indian manufacturer very prices specially now when worldwide economical slowdown effected manufacturers very badly. There are ready to sale carpets at 20% down so that they can fight with evil economical crisis.

Glory of Stainmaster Brand Carpet

2009-04-16T14:57:00.000-07:00

If you looking for such carpet which have no need to care about stain surely you should go for Stainmaster brand carpet. Stainmaster brand carpets are actually master of stain. If you have heard some good about Stainmaster carpet you can test it buying this brand. I am sure you would have no question about its services to your floor. You would not pay painful attention about wine spills and spills of kids who playing on Stainmaster brand carpet.

The carpet of this brand has its many other good properties but mainly stain. These carpets made from such type of nylon fibers which provide great resistance to stain. You have to don’t care if kid playing on the carpet with pets.

Except its stain protecting quality it is also have a beautiful look, shine and other general properties of carpets. Stainmaster brand carpet will be best suitable carpet for the areas where you don’t want to care about stain. The stain resistance property of this brand makes it different from other carpets.

Story of Carpet sold for highest price

2009-04-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

In Qatar a great old Indian Pearl carpet sold for a highest price of $5.5 million. This piece was not an average carpet but it was made using thousands of small pieces of pearls, rubies diamonds and sapphires on silk base. Last year a Persian silk carpet was sold for 4.5 million dollars.

This very excellent nice carpet was commissioned by Maharaja of Baroda an Indian State. This carpet was specially made to gift to tomb of Mohemmad in Medina the greatest place for Muslims. But due to unfortunate death of Maharajah this carpet could not sent to Medina and sold now. This point is most valuable which indicate the love, honour and deep respect of another’s religion by Indians.

Type of carpet fibers-We sould know

2009-04-14T17:26:00.001-07:00

Hi friends, Let us know about fibers being used in most of carpets. Every one related carpet such as carpet consumer, carpet manufacture, carpet seller and also carpet exporters. The carpet which provide a luxurious look and soft feel to our floors being made using one or more of the following fibers.

Wool
Wool is a very popular fiber being used in carpet manufacturing for centuries. Wool fiber has the stain resistance quality, luxurious look and soft touch. But it is more expensive than synthetic fivers. Semi worsted New Zealand wool known as high quality wool. The carpet made from N.Z. Wool look very shiny and soft.

Silk
Silk is very nice fiber. It is a strong fiber but very thin. As it is very strong and thin fiber so extremely high quality carpets are being made using these fibers. The carpets made from these fibers looks different colored from different angles. Silk used carpets have extra high durability. This fiber type is most expensive also. These carpets are being made in Kashmir mostly.

Acrylic
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber. It looks and feels like wool but its cost is less than wool. These type of fibers are resistant of strain, moisture crushing and static electricity. Durability of these fibers are not high so cannot be used on high traffic places.

Nylon
Nylon is also a man invented fiber. It is very popular due to its quality of durability and static free. It may be used at all type of traffic places. Nylon may be permanently dyed after carpet made.

Olefin
This synthetic fiber is most popular fiber being used to produce loop piled and cut piled carpets after Nylon. Its cost is also low than nylon. It resists mildew and moisture. Carpets of Olefin (Polypropyline) are suitable indoor and outdoor use.

Blends
Blends fibers are mixture of nylons and olefins. So these fibers shows characteristics both type of fibers.

Polyester
Polyester carpets are cheaper than nylon carpets. Carpets made by these fibers are easy to clean. This is a luxurious fiber. It is also a synthetic fiber. It looks as silk fibers but not strong and shiny as pure silk.

How to calculate the quality of Persian carpet

2009-04-12T15:53:00.000-07:00

How to calculate the quality of Persian carpet

As a carpet consumer you must be aware of quality calculation of carpets. The quality of hand knotted carpet mostly depends upon the knots per unit area. As the knots count per unit area increases the quality of hand knotted carpet also increases. Mainly two type quality measurement of carpets being used worldwide by carpet sellers and manufacturers.

According to one of older measurement system, quality of hand knotted carpet being represents as the product of number of 20couples of vertical lines in a Yard and number of couples of horizontal knots lines in 9 inches. For example in a 9x54 quality hand knotted Persian carpet. Knots counts will be as under:-

Number of Vertical lines in a yard : 9x20x2=360
Number of horizontal lines in 9 Inches : 2x54=108
Number of horizontal line in a Yard = 108x4=432

So the number of knots per square yard : 360x432=155520 knots per square yard.
Number of knots per square meter : 155520*1.196=186002 knots per square yard

In the second system quality of hand knotted carpets being counted knots per square inch. For if quality is 10x10 than the number of knots should be as under:

Number of knots per square inch= 10x10=100 knots
Number of knots per square yard = 100x1296=129600 knots
Number of knots per square meter = 129600*1.196=155002 knots

You can calculate the quality of hand knotted carpet by counting the knots in one square inch on the back of carpet. If the quality of carpet differs (less than declared) you may ask for quality discount from seller.

Hope the above details are sufficient to calculate the quality of carpets. I will soon publish a java enabled quality calculator using which you can calculate automatically the count of knots every units such as per square inch, per square cm, per square yard and per square meter.

Five Carpet Buying tips

2009-04-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

Now we will discus on the points to which we should keep in our mind at time of purchasing a carpet and rugs.

Quality
Quality of the hand knotted carpet depends on the density of knots i.e. number of knots per unit area. Ask the quality of the carpet from seller and assure by counting knots on back of carpet. For example if seller told you the quality 10x10 or 9/54 that means this hand knotted carpet should have approximately 100 knots per square inch. If knots count is less than hundred you should ask for quality discount from seller. I will publish a quality calculation tool soon on this blog. Using that anyone can calculate that how many knots should be per square inch, per square centimeter, per square yard or per square meter of a specific quality hand knotted Persian carpet.

Color
Color of carpet is a most effective thing for carpets. You should choose such color combination that may make a peaceful or joyful effect in your mind. But you should always take attention of a factor that some time carpet lost its color after washing. You should take guarantee from seller about color. You can also check it by rubbing with wet white cloth. If carpet will start discoloring its color particles may be seen on your white cloth. You should purchase the carpet from reputed store where you can exchange discolored carpet or can get back your money.

Design
Design of carpet or rug should of your choice. But you should check roughly about broken branches of designs. Some weaver weaves broken designs. When during weaving the carpet length is going oversize the weavers break the designs to limit its size. If the broken area will be big the design lost its beauty. So you should take care of it.

Fiber
Fibers play most important roll in manufacturing of carpet many types of fibers being used to manufacture different type of rugs. Make sure that same fiber used in carpet which shown in label. If the wool mark shown on the label you can trust about fiber quality and originality. I will publish detailed discussion on fiber soon on this blog for our visitor’s knowledge.

Physical Damages
Except above points customer should check the carpet thoroughly for any physical damages. After bringing the home the seller may refuse about damages. They can say that the damage occurs in the way.

Hope above 5 points makes our carpet and rug customers safe during purchasing of hand knotted rugs. Your comments with your purchase experiences are warmly welcomed. Your valuable comments will help me improve my articles so that thousand of our consumers escaped from cheatings.
nagesh

How to choose a best rug for your child

2009-03-25T04:41:00.000-07:00

Naturally everyone wants to provide a best environment to their children so that they can play, sleep and do their home works with joy. In this regard carpet and rugs being used for children’s room should special. Parents should pay attention to following points before purchase a carpet for their beloved one.

1) Color is a very importance factor for the children. Usually they like bright colors but this factor vary a bit from child to child. Before choosing the right color parents should consider the color likeness of child for whom the carpet being purchased.
2) Design is another effective issue for the children’s rug. Often child love modern designs having cartoons, birds, monkey and simple geometric design. These designs make children’s mind happy. This factor mayChoose best rugs for your children’s room be special for your child. You should research for his/her design attraction.
3) Shape of the carpet may be rectangle, circle, oval, square and scalloped according to your child’s will.
4) To protect children’s soft skin from injury when they fall often while paying the fiber of carpet should be soft. polypropylene, latex, cotton, jute, wool or synthetic fibers may be used. Because these fibers are soft as well as easy to wash.

Choosing a best carpet for your child’s bedroom let him enjoy and you also feel good seeing your child have fun and enjoyment on the carpet of your choice. The rugs may be purchased from an online store.

History of Indian Carpets

2008-12-17T23:58:00.000-08:00

Woolen carpets were known in India as early as 500 B.C. References to woven mats and floor coverings can be found in ancient and medieval Indian literature. But the most famous type of Indian carpets, pile carpets came to India in the reign of Akbar in 16th century.

Carpets of Akbar's Age (1556-1605)
He in 1580A.D. brought certain Persian carpet weavers to India and established them here. The art grew and flourished here. It was modified as per the royal tastes and mixed with the Indian arts. The Persian carpets were thus Indianized. It spread to the whole subcontinent with each area having its own specialties.

From the beginning, wool or silks have been the basic material of the knotted carpets. The wool may have a variety of origins as per the type of carpet being made. Silk knots are also used in Kashmir region. The patterns varied from vines and floral patterns, animal and bird figures and geometric and calligraphic patterns.

Rugs from Akbar's reign used cotton warp and wool pile and color scheme had multiple shades of blues, greens, and other colors on a red base. The patterns were an adaptation of Persian style but latter modified to Indian tastes.

Carpets of Jahangir's Age (1605-27)
Carpets of Jahangir's reign were more refined. Materials like silk and pashmina were used that allowed greater number of knots to be incorporated. Patterns resembled miniature paintings. Subtle gradations, and shadings with yarns were themselves artistic. The patterns were a reflection of manuscript paintings. They were technically refined in both design and construction. The carpets had scrolling vines, flowering plants, and more naturalistic animals in pictorial or overall pattern.

Carpets of Shahjahan's Age (1628-58)
During Shahjahan's reign art of carpets had reached new heights Warps and wefts of fine silk yarns allowed as many as 2,000 knots per square inch. Silk or pashmina piles gave the carpets a velvet like texture. Yarn shading was as sophisticated as in Jahangir's reign. Flowers were now the primary elements of design.

Carpets of Auranzeb (1658 onwards)
Though during the reign of Auranzeb, all crafts saw a downfall of almost all crafts, carpet craft sustained. Reason may be that they were required for all religious purposes. The patterns were primarily floral all over with at times geometric or calligraphic trims.

Chinese and European patterns also influenced the art in their own way. With their mythical characters finding way in the carpets, it can be clearly seen. Calligraphy influenced the carpet craft as it did the other crafts.

Though like all other crafts, carpet making also saw a downfall for sometime, the craft sustained in the traditional families.

The Indian carpets are considered most technically accomplished classical carpets. The carpet weavers over the time have grown artistically. Indian Carpets are renowned for their exquisite designs, elegance, attractive colors and workmanship.

Modern Age
After independence of India, Indian government made many good efforts to develop carpet business in India. There are many regions in Indian where high quality carpets being produced. Pure silk carpets are being produced in Kashmir. Bhadohi carpet belt known in world for low, medium & high quality hand knotted carpets. Jaipur also well known for its special quality carpet. Carpet produced in Agra known as Agra design. All Indian carpet regions have its own specialties.

History of Carpet in U.S.

2008-12-16T21:45:00.000-08:00

Woven Carpet and Invention of Power loom and Broadloom
The carpet industry in the United States began in 1791 when William Sprague started the first woven carpet mill in Philadelphia. Others opened during the early 1800s in New England. Included in that area was Beattie Manufacturing Company in Little Falls, New Jersey, a company that operated until 1979.

In 1839, Erastus Bigelow permanently reshaped the industry with the invention of the power loom for weaving carpets. Bigelow's loom, which doubled carpet production the first year after its creation and tripled it by 1850, is now part of the Smithsonian Institution's collections. He continued to devote his life to innovation -- 35 separate patents were issued to him between 1839 and 1876. Bigelow introduced the first broadloom carpet in 1877.

The power loom with Jacquard mechanism was developed in 1849, and Brussels carpet was first manufactured by the Clinton Company of Massachusetts. The Brussels loom was slightly modified, making possible the manufacture of Wilton carpet. Later, the Hartford Carpet Company joined with Clinton Company to become Bigelow Carpet Company.

In 1878, four Shuttleworth brothers brought 14 looms from England and established their manufacturing plant in Amsterdam, New York. In 1905, the company introduced a new carpet, Karnak Wilton. Its instant success was phenomenal. Flooded with orders, a new building had to be constructed to exclusively handle Karnak production. Weavers worked four and five years without changing either the color or pattern on their looms.

Alexander Smith started his carpet manufacturing plant in 1845 in West Farms, New York. An American, Halcyon Skinner, had perfected the power loom for making Royal Axminster in 1876. He and Alexander Smith combined, forming a very successful carpet company. Alexander Smith was elected to Congress in 1878, but died on the evening of Election Day. Sixteen hundred people were employed at his factory at the time of his death. Alexander Smith & Sons continued. During World War I, the carpet looms were converted to make tent duck and navy blankets. In 1929 Alexander Smith & Sons was the largest manufacturer of carpets and rugs in the world.

machine-made Oriental Rug

Industrialist/retailer Marshall Field had a traditional Axminster weaving loom modified to create what no one else had ever created -- a machine-made rug woven through the back, just like a handmade Oriental, featuring intricate designs and virtually unlimited color variety. Karastan’s rug mill was established in 1926, and introduced the first Karastan rugs to the public in 1928.

Alexander Smith, Bigelow, and Karastan are companies continuing today as divisions of Mohawk Industries, headquartered in Georgia.

There are many manufacturers today producing both simulations of antique designs and updated "oriental" type rugs by both weaving and tufting processes.

Invention of Tufted carpet
Born in the U.S.A. and the Pride of Georgia
Through the late 1800s, Dalton, Georgia, struggled with cotton mills and steel manufacturing works to forge a small town in the north Georgia hills. Northwest Georgia, with its hard-packed clay, poor farmland, and rolling hills was among the last areas of Georgia settled. Rich in a heritage of Cherokee Indians and Civil War battles, that northern corner of the state was rugged and spawned people who were independent and self-sufficient. Those were the people who brought forth and nurtured the tufted textile industry. The industry's infancy was in Dalton; it has gone through intense growth in Dalton; and it has now matured in and around Dalton. The carpet industry's impact is great on this region, this state, and the nation; and the story of its growth is unique.

Catherine's bedspreads
The industry began in a simple way, around the turn of the century. A young, Dalton woman, Catherine Evans Whitener, recreated a bedspread in a hand-crafted pattern she had seen, for a wedding gift. Copying a quilt pattern, she sewed thick cotton yarns with a running stitch into unbleached muslin, clipped the ends of the yarn so they would fluff out, and finally, washed the spread in hot water to hold the yarns in by shrinking the fabric. Interest grew in young Catherine's bedspreads, and in 1900, she made the first sale of a spread for $2.50. Demand became so great for the spreads that by the 1930s, local women, who were real entrepreneurs, had "haulers," who would take the stamped sheeting and yarns to front porch workers. Often, entire families worked to hand tuft the spreads for 10 to 25 cents per spread. The local term for the sewing process was "turfin" for the nearly 10,000 area cottage tufters -- men, women, and children. Bedspread income was instrumental in helping many area families survive the depression.

As an example of the spirit of these early entrepreneurial women, Mrs. J. T. Bates stated that she simply "shipped 15 spreads to John Wannamaker’s department store in New York. On a piece of plain tablet paper I made out a bill for $98.15 and put it in with the spreads. Although there had been no previous contact whatsoever with the store, Wannamakers sent us a check for $98.15." Chenille bedspreads became amazingly popular all over the country and provided a new name for Dalton: The Bedspread Capital of the World.

Mechanized Tufting
Buyer competition, which tended to lower the prices, the change in the minimum wage laws, and development of machine-produced spreads soon made the hand-crafted spreads too expensive. Gradually the industry began to pull the workers from surrounding hillsides and small towns into mills in Dalton, beginning the rapid growth of the mechanized tufting industry.

In the 1930s, as a result of the demand for more bedspreads, the first mechanized tufting machine, attributed to Glen Looper Foundry of Dalton, was developed. Looper modified the single needle commercial Singer so that it would tuft the thick yarn into unbleached muslin without tearing the fabric and an attached knife would cut the loop. Machines quickly developed into four, then eight, twenty-four, and more needles to make the parallel rows of tufting known as "chenille." By 1941, all but about one percent of tufted bedspreads were machine made. Mats and rugs were created with the same process, using cotton yarns and fabric. Volume increased rapidly after World War II, because people were hungry for color and beauty. To show the extent of growth, 30,000 bales of cotton were consumed in 1946 by the industry. By 1950, approximately 500,000 bales were used, and the industry was the third largest consumer of cotton grown in Georgia in 1952.

Sales were created by correspondence or by taking spreads to department stores, but by far the most famous and enjoyable way to buy a spread was on "Bedspread Alley," U. S. Highway 41 between Dalton and Cartersville. This stretch of the major north-south highway got its nickname because of the bedspreads the tufters hung on clotheslines to dry in the breeze and sun.

The salesmen and tourists enjoyed seeing the colorful, gaudy spreads and enjoyed the novelty of buying them "off the line." The most popular pattern to the travelers, outselling all others 12 to 1 was the Peacock -- feathered birds facing each other and spreading tails over the breadth of the spread. This "Bedspread Alley" phenomenon lasted into the ‘70s, and even now a few spreads can be seen on lines just south of Dalton.

As the number of tufted products produced annually went into the millions, the job of supplying the industry became equally important. Yarn, sheeting, duck mills, and agents were established in the area, with their entire output going to the industry; and larger mills elsewhere vied for the growing business. Machine shops were established to manufacture the thousands of single and multi-needle machines needed, as well as to design improvements aimed at making even more beautiful and better spreads, bathroom sets, robes, beach wear, and rugs. Dye plants for yarn were built. Laundries were erected for finishing the spreads. Printing shops were established to supply the millions of tags and labels needed. Box factories turned out cartons for shipping. Moving these spreads to market was big volume for rail and motor freight lines.

Machinery was developed for making chenille rugs and was widened, creating larger rugs and broadloom carpet. At the same time, machinery was changing; developments of new fibers accelerated the growth of broadloom carpet.

Indtroduction of Synthetic fibers
Until about 1954, cotton was virtually the only fiber used in tufted products. Wool and manmade fibers -- polyester, nylon, rayon, and acrylics -- were gradually introduced by textile men in Dalton. Nylon was first introduced in 1947 and grew steadily to dominate the market. Polyester was first used in 1965 and was followed soon by polypropylene (olefin). Most manufacturers will agree that the single most important development in the industry was the introduction of bulk continuous filament nylon yarns. These yarns provided a luxurious quality, durable carpet, similar to wool, which was more economical to produce. Therefore, a durable, luxury product was offered to the consumer for less money.

In 1950, only 10 percent of all carpet and rug products were tufted, and ninety percent were woven. However, about 1950, it was as if someone had opened a magic trunk. Out of that trunk came man-made fibers, new spinning techniques, new dye equipment, printing processes, tufting equipment, and backing for different end uses. Today, tufted products are more than 90 percent of the total, followed by less than 2 percent that are woven, and 6.7 percent for all other methods, such as knitted, braided, hooked, or needlepunched. By 1951, the tufting industry was a $133 million per year business made up primarily of bedspreads, carpet, and rugs, with carpet accounting for $19 million. The industry broke the billion dollar mark in 1963. Through the years, the Dalton area has continued to be the center of the tufted carpet industry, and today, the area produces more than 70 percent of the total output of the world-wide industry of over $9 billion. Dalton is now known as the "Carpet Capital of the World."

KERMAN Carpet

2008-12-13T03:35:00.000-08:00

The KERMAN have been appreciated by western collectors for many years. They are particularly famous for having a single medallion with an arabesque form called ESKI-KERMAN. There are, however, many different designs in KERMAN carpets and rugs. Another common famous design is the "Tree of Life." KERMAN carpets and rugs are of very high quality, just as TABRIZ and ISFAHAN. KERMAN is famous for producing large-size carpets (10 x 18 feet), but you will be able to find smaller sizes, also. The reds and blues in KERMAN rugs and carpets are lighter in comparison with carpets and rugs made in other cities in IRAN. Texture of Kerman have thin wool, very well textured pile . Warp is cotton; pile is wool. Rugs and Carpets from KERMAN have very tight foundations and the knots are Persian. The quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 842 KPSI (80 RAJ).

KERMAN city:
The city of KERMAN is in southeastern IRAN and has long been a carpet weaving centers. It is located in the center of Kerman province, 1022 km(635 miles) southeast of TEHRAN. The population of KERMAN is around 2 million (KERMAN City: 340,000). KERMAN has a hot and dry summer and a cold and dry in winter. KERMAN is an ancient city and was called BOTIA during the Achaemenid Dynasty. It is a center of trade in the region and is accessible from Persian Gulf and Oman Sea ports by railway and highway.

BIJAR Carpet

2008-12-13T03:27:00.001-08:00

Herati and Mina Khani designs are very common in BIJAR Kurdish rugs. You can also find medallion and all-over patterns with multiple borders. BIJAR carpets are counted among the best oriental carpets for everyday use because they are extremely tough and rigid. Modern BIJAR workshop carpets are still of excellent design and construction. BIJAR carpets come in different sizes, especially from about 1 x 1.50m (3' 3" x 4'x 11") upwards. Large pieces of over 12 square meters (51 square feet) are common. Ground colors are harmonious, a product of the blending of subtly shaded patterns. Dark blue and a strong red predominate. Brown and yellow are also used, but green is rare. Some old BIJARs are woven with combinations of light and dark blue.
Texture have a very dense hard pile, cut medium to high, though old and antique finely woven pieces tend to be clipped lower. Warp is of cotton or, less frequently, goat's wool. Weft is cotton and both warp and weft yarn is tightly spun. In old and antique pieces, warp and weft are of wool. The majority of BIJAR rugs have Turkish knots. However, Persian knotted pieces are also found.

Story of BIJAR

BIJAR is one of the fertile areas of Kurdestan. Its climate is cold and dry in winter and moderate in summer. In the Kurdish language, the willow tree is called 'Bi' and an area of such trees is called a 'Bijar'-- the region of willows-so named because of the abundance of willow trees,. Although the small Kurdish town of BIJAR in the province of Kermanshah has hardly ten thousand inhabitants, the high quality of its carpets has gained it an international reputation. Concern for this reputation for high quality led to a clear distinction being made between the products of the BIJAR town workshops and the Tekab-BIJAR, which are woven by an Afshari tribe that settled in the area. BIJAR rugs have a very unique weave that uses the symmetrical Turkish knot and double weft compacted very tightly, thus making them heavy and durable rugs. The characteristic weft technique used in the Kurdish BIJAR area gave rise to the term BIJAR structure. The strong tension of the weft pulls the warp into two layers, giving the carpet a certain rigidity. Though strong, if handled carelessly or folded, it will crack and tear.

GABBEH Carpet

2008-12-13T03:23:00.000-08:00

The GABBEH Carpet is an interesting type of carpet. It has extremely simple pattern and all have geometric pattern. Some newer GABBEH have more details such as birds, and human in the pattern. GABBEH was getting very popular in 80's in Europe and now since the lifting of embargo, you find them in the US Market also. The majorty of GABBEH have simple plain format with one or two small animal on their pattern. The world GABBEH means "unclipped". GABBEH distinct style of weaving is especially suitable for modern, or contemporary settings. The majority of GABBEH made by tribal people such as QASHQAI around SHIRAZ. The quality of GABBEH are excellent. They are extremely durable. You have to be careful that the mimic Pakistani, Indian, Chines or Turkish ones do not carry the same quality. The GABBEH rugs have different sizes and the majority of them are small size (2x3 to 4x6 feet). Plain khaki, soft green, light blue are the main colors of Gabe. You can find other newer color such as red and yellow or ivory. Gabe rugs have Very Thick, heavy, Soft wool, lose piles. Warps and wefts in Gabe are wool. GABBEH are usually flat-woven.

Story related with Gabbeh Carpet

The QASHQAI are the second largest Turkic group in IRAN. The QASHQAI are a confederation of several Turkic-speaking tribes in southern IRAN numbering about 250,000 people. The QASHQAI territory extends from ABADEH and SHAH-REZA in the ISFAHAN province to the Persian Gulf coast. QASHQAI are pastoral nomads who move with their herds of sheep and goats between summer pastures in the higher elevations of the Zagros south of SHIRAZ and winter pastures at low elevations north of SHIRAZ. Their migration routes are considered to be among the longest and most difficult of all of IRAN's pastoral tribes. QASHQAI migrate as much as 300 miles annually between summer and winter pastures. The QASHQAI confederation emerged in the eighteenth century when SHIRAZ was the capital of the Zand dynasty. During the nineteenth century, the QASHQAI confederation became one of the best organized and most powerful tribal confederations in IRAN, including among its clients hundreds of villages and some non-Turkic-speaking tribes. Under the QASHQAI first notable leader, Khan Solat ad Doleh, their strength was great enough to defeat the British-led South Persia Rifles in 1918. Reza Shah's campaigns against them in the early 1930s were successful because the narrow pass on the route from their summer to winter pastures was blocked, and the tribe was starved into submission. Solat and his son were imprisoned in TEHRAN, where Solat was subsequently murdered. Many QASHQAIs then settled on land in their summer pastures, which averages 2,500 meters above sea level. The QASHQAI like the BAKHTIARI and other forcibly settled tribes, returned to nomadic life upon Reza Shah's exile in 1941. Army and government officials were driven out of the area, but the QASHQAI, reduced in numbers and disorganized after their settlement, were unable to regain their previous strength and independence. In the post-World War II period, the QASHQAI khans supported the National Front of Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadeq. Following the 1953 royalist coup (cod'état) against Mossadeq, the QASHQAI khans were exiled, and army officers were appointed to supervise tribal affairs. The QASHQAI revolted again in the period 1962 to 1964, when the government attempted to take away their pastures under the land reform program. A full-fledged military campaign was launched against them, and the area was eventually pacified. Since the mid-1960s, many QASHQAI have settled in villages and towns. According to some estimates, as many as 100,000 Qashqai may have been settled by 1986. This change from pastoral nomadism to settled agriculture and urban occupations proved to be an important factor hindering the QASHQAI tribes from organizing effectively against the central government after the Revolution in 1979 when exiled tribal leaders returned to Iran hoping to rebuild the confederation. By the 1980s, the terms QASHQAI and TURK tended to be used interchangeably in Fars, especially by non-TURK speakers. Many Turkic groups, however, such as the urban of Shiraz and their related village kin in nearby rural areas and the Baharlu, the Inalu, and other tribes, were never part of the Qashqai confederation. The Baharlu and Inalu tribes actually were part of the Khamseh confederacy created to counterbalance the QASHQAI. Nevertheless, both QASHQAI and non-QASHQAI TURKS in FARS recognize a common ethnic identity in relation to non-TURKS.

MASHAD Carpets

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Mashad rugs and carpets are mostly curvilinear with a single central medallion, corner floral designs, and very busy curvilinear floral motifs in the background. Mashad is known for producing some of the best wool in IRAN. Mashad rugs and carpets are very high quality and are among the best looking carpets in IRAN and the world. Mashad rugs and carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them are large (10 x 18 feet). The Dark red, blue, and khaki are the main colors in MASHAD carpets. Warp use in Mashas carpet is mostly cotton; weft is either cotton or wool. Weavers in MASHAD use Persian knots. You should check the back of the carpet because the quality of the rug depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 475 KPSI (60 RAJ).

Story of MASHAD:

MASHAD is located 909 km(564 Miles) from TEHRAN in Northeastern IRAN, between the two mountain ranges of Binalood and Hezarmasjed. In the year 823 CE, after the martyrdom of His Holiness Imam Reza in a place around Toos named "Sanabad" (now called MASHAD-e-Reza or "place of the martyrdom"), the main nucleus of contemporary MASHAD appeared. Sultan Mahmood Ghaznavi built a mausoleum opposite to the Shrine and in the 13th century CE, after the destruction of Toos city by Mongols, MASHAD developed as many people migrated there. At first, the Toos area was the residence of non-Aryan tribes and some parts of it were conquered by Arabs in the period of Caliph Osman. It was annexed to the Islamic territory in the time of Caliph Omar. Toos was among the first cities subjected to the destructive Mongol onslaught and, like the other cities of Khorasan, it was completely ruined. Due to its specific and sensitive conditions, Toos passed from governor to governor in the Teymoorian and Ilkhanan periods, and many people were massacred. Finally, in 1438 CE, Shahrokh, the son of Amir Taymoor, took the throne. From his reign on, Toos was paid special attention, causing its expansion and development. Since the second half of the 15th century CE, this city was commemorated as a suburb of MASHAD. Some ruins of old Toos remain. Today, MASHAD has an unbreakable tie with the history of old Toos and hosts hundreds of thousand of pilgrims and visitors annually. New Toos, due to the existence of the tomb of "Ferdowsi," the great Iranian poet, is also recognized as a significant cite.

ISFAHAN Carpet

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The ISFAHAN rugs and carpets are very symmetrical and balanced and usually have a single medallion surrounded with whorls (vines) and palmettos. ISFAHAN rugs and carpets are usually of excellent quality. The most famous master weaver in ISFAHAN is Seirafian. There are many FAKE SEIRAFIAN signed rugs and carpets. Be careful! The ISFAHAN carpets have different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). You can also find large rugs up to 10 x 18 feet. ISFAHAN rugs and carpets usually have ivory backgrounds with blue, rose, and indigo motifs. ISFAHAN made from Soft wool; very tight pile Warp is mostly silk; weft is either cotton, wool, or silk. The majority of master workshop Isfahan rugs have silk warp. You can find cotton warp in older Isfahan rugs. Weavers in ISFAHAN use Persian knots. You should check the back of the carpet because the quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 842 KPSI (80 RAJ).

Where is ISFAHAN Town?

ISFAHAN township is located 424 km south of TEHRAN. It is the capital city of the province and is situated between two mountain ranges. In the west, a mountainous area runs to Chahar Mahal Province and in the east lie the Ghahrood and Karkas mountains.

FARAHAN Carpet

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The FARAHAN rugs and carpets have been prized for their sturdy construction and their quiet, all-over patterning. The most customary border is the "turtle" (a pair of split arabesques) on a ground of corrosive green that is produced by the use of a copper salt that causes the wool dyed with it to wear more rapidly than the portions dyed with other colors, resulting in a sculptured surface effect. The rugs and carpets from the FARAHAN district are excellent and are world famous. SAROUKis the most renowned product of the region. FARAHAN rugs come in different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). Most of Farhan Rugs have a dark-blue ground with an endless repeat of the HERATI design in which a diamond lattice peeps through a tangle of rose blossoms and leaves. The coloring may be continuously varied within such a repeat, producing attractive changes in effect. The Farhan made from Soft wool; thin, tight pile. Weavers in FARAHAN use Persian knots. The quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 475 KPSI (60 RAJ).

Know FARAHAN.

The FARAHAN district is located in central of IRAN around 580 km south of TEHRAN, among the cities of ARAK, QOM, and KASHAN. This district has a long history in the Persian Rug industry. In the 19th century, many British Companies opened factories to produce fine rugs for export to Europe. In western countries today, FARAHAN rugs and carpets are known as MAHAL, which received its name from MAHALLAT (a city in the FARAHAN district, south of ARAK).

SAROUK (SARUQ) Carpets

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The SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are characterized by both curvilinear and geometric patterns and come in both traditional and American styles. The traditional designs consist of Herati, boteh, or gul hannai motifs in either an all-over or medallion layout. The medallion layout could have a hexagonal, oval, diamond, round, or angular floral shape. The most interesting traditional design is a medallion-and-corner layout which consists of geometric yet very naturalistic floral motifs. SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are very famous, however, it is not easy to determine true SAROUKs (SARUQs) from those of neighboring villages and cities. SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are of excellent quality. Antique (1900) SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are of extremely high quality and are being collected by museums and private collectors. After WWII, the quality SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets dropped for a brief period. Now carpets some of which are of the very highest quality are being exported all over the world, and especially to Europe and America. SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). The main colors used in the traditional designs are red, blue, burnt orange, ocher, and champagne. The main colors used in American SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are rich reds and blues. Sometimes the motifs are outlined with a lighter red, light yellow, or turquoise to create contrast between the background and the motifs, especially in the case of open field designs. An intense salmon pink called dughi pink is typical of American Saruks; this color is obtained by adding yogurt or curdled milk to the dye mixture. Other colors such as soft green, blue, and brown are found in newer carpets. SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets are made from excellent wool, cut medium high to high. Older pieces are often hard, woven in lustrous top quality wool, KORK (baby lamb's wool), and cut very short to short. Inspection of the back of the carpet is important because the weavers in SAROUK (SARUQ) use Persian knots. In antique SAROUK (SARUQ) rugs and carpets, you can also find Turkish knots. The quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but usually averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 475 KPSI(60 RAJ).

Where is SAROUK(SARUQ, SAROUGH)?

SAROUK (also known as SARUQ and SAROUGH) is a village around 50 km north of ARAK in central of IRAN.

KASHAN Carpet

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The KASHAN carpets and rugs have the greatest curvature and visibility among those of the cities in central of IRAN. They all have similar patterns--a single medallion in the center and Persian floral motifs, including arabesques and flower-stems, palmettos, rosettes, blossom and leaf motifs, forming one of the densest patterns. The KASHAN rugs and carpets are of excellent quality. Older ones (before 1945) are very good, but some of the newer ones are not as good. They sometimes have lower KPSI and they are chemically dyed. On the other hand, if you are a wise buyer, you can find a great deal. KASHAN rugs and carpets are one of the finest looking carpets in IRAN and the world. KASHAN carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). You can also find large rugs up to 0 x 18 feet. The kashan carpets being made in Ivory, light green and red predominate. Other colors such as soft green and blue are found in newer carpets. Kashan rugs and carpets have soft wool and a thin, tight pile. The foundation (warp and weft) of the rug is cotton, except in very fine pieces where it is pure silk. KASHAN rugs and carpets have Persian knots, The weave is fine to exceptionally fine. The quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 842 KPSI (80 RAJ).

History of KASHAN

KASHAN is located 258 km (160 miles) south of TEHRAN. It is a large oasis town along the western edge of the great desert, KAVIR, in the province of ISFAHAN in central IRAN. he central heights of the country cross this township and part of it is located in a vast plain while the other part is in a mountainous area. The climate, like all of central IRAN, varies depending on the topography of the region. The mountainous areas are cold and the plains, especially the desert margins, are warm. KASHAN is one of the oldest cities of IRAN. Archeological excavations in the Sialk hills (located 4 km west of the city) indicate that this area was the home of pre-historic humans.

MAHAL Carpets

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MAHAL (MAHALLAT) rugs and carpets are found with both tribal and curvilinear motifs. This attribute derives from the unique position of the city of MAHALLAT, which is between the cities of ARAK and Delijan, on the path of the tribal people of southern IRAN. The quality of MAHAL rugs is average. Even though they have loose knots, the structure is strong. MAHAL (MAHALLAT) rugs and carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). You can also find large rugs up to 10 x 18 feet. Dark red and khaki are the main colors and the majority of the borders are blue. Mahal carpets use to Very soft and lustrous wool; thin, tight pile; double weft. Warp is mostly cotton; weft is either cotton or wool. Weaver in MAHALLAT use both Turkish and Persian knots. You should check the back of carpet because the quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ).

History of MAHAL(MAHALLAT)

The town of MAHALLAT is located southwest of ARAK. MAHALLAT is not only famous for its rugs and carpets, but also for its mineral springs. Every year, people from all around IRAN visit these springs for their healthful qualities.
The MAHALLAT watering place complex is situated 260 kilometers(162 Miles) southwest of TEHRAN within the city of MAHALLAT. The mineral water of MAHALLAT watering place has a temperature of 48 centigrade, and each liter contains 53.5 milligrams of salts such as chlorine, selenium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. It is unique in the world in terms of hydrotherapy, and is effective for the treatment of hepatic, renal, and alimentary diseases as well as gout, and some kinds of dermatitis, rheumatism and osteo-arthritis. The mineral water is odorless, colorless and limpid--distinctive features of the mineral water of the region.
MAHALLAT has some of the best travertine stone in the world. There are many mines all around the city. The majority of these mines export stone to Europe, especially Italy.

NAIN Carpet

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The NAIN rugs and carpets have curvilinear patterns. They are among the best in the world. The unique characteristic of NAIN rugs and carpets is their single medallion set in a blue or ivory background. The quality of NAIN rugs and carpets vary. Newer ones are extremely good, although NAIN does not have long history in the carpet industry. Due to the considerable demand for NAIN rugs and carpets, there are many Indian and Pakistani imitations on the market. Unfortunately, some dealers are selling them as real NAIN. One of the most famous master weavers in NAIN is HABIBIAN. It is very hard to find real HABIBIAN carpets because of the high demand. Older NAIN rugs and carpets are also hard to find. NAIN carpets come in different sizes, but the majority of them are mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). You can also find large rugs up to 10 x 18 feet. Ivory and light and dark blue are the main colors for NAIN carpets. You can hardly find a NAIN rug or carpet with a red background. Nain rugs have Soft wool; thin, tight pile. Weavers in NAIN use Persian knots. Persian rug experts use a different measurement called LAA (Farsi word [Official language in IRAN]) exclusively to define the quality of NAIN rugs. LAA means layers and refers to the number of threads forming each fringe at the end of a NAIN rug. The LAA number is an indication of the price. As LAA numbers decrease, the price of NAIN rugs increases. A good quality NAIN is 9 LAA, which means you can count 9 threads on each fringe at the end of the rug. The most expensive NAIN rugs have 4 LAA, which is superfine, very valuable, and difficult to find. The quality of the carpet also depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 842 KPSI (80 RAJ).

Hisroty of NAIN

NAIN is a small town about 150 km east of ISFAHAN, in the great desert in central Iran. Carpet production is new in NAIN in comparison with cities such as YAZD, ISFAHAN, KASHAN and SHIRAZ. NAIN was a center of fine textiles before WWII, but shifted to manufacturing carpets and rugs after the war. The majority of carpets and rugs produced in NAIN are exported all around the world.

LURI Carpet

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The Carpets made in LURI (LORI) have nomadic and geometric patterns. They are very durable and long-lasting. The Quality of LURI (LORI) carpets are of excellent. The Size and Shapes of LURI (LORI) rugs are usually mid-size (4 x 6 to 8 x 10 feet). The Colors are Dark red, blue and orange are the major colors of LURI (LORI) rugs and carpets with the Soft wool; thin, tight pile texture. Warp is mostly cotton; weft is wool. Weavers in LURESTAN create flat-woven rugs. The price of LURI (LORI) rugs are among the finest quality tribal rugs, so expect to pay $5-$15 Per Square Foot (PSF) for a carpet from LURESTAN.

LURI Tribe:

The LURI(LORI) people have lived as nomads for over 600 years. They are located in three different regions. These regions are all a part of the Zagros Mountains. The BAKHTIARI are a related people. In the spring, the LURI(LORI) live in black goat-hair tents. During the hot summer, they use leaves and branches for cover because they provide much cooler shelter. In the winter, they move into double ended houses known as zemga. These houses are half buried in the slope of a hill. The are built with boulders and 2/3 of the area is covered by a roof of branches and sod. LURI(LORI) women, if not covered (veiled), can be seen wearing very significant jewelry that shows their wealth and status. The men are either shepherds or farmers who migrate according to the season. The children for the most part do not go to school due to a lack of teachers.

SOUMAK Carpet

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SOUMAK is a comparatively rare type of KELIM, deriving its name from the old town of SHEMAKJA (Republic of Azerbaijan). SOUMAK is NOT a KELIM. However, both have flat-woven style. SOUMAK has embroidered and its embroidery threads are not cut off at the back. SOUMAK has a shaggy, erratic collection of loose ends or strands of wool. The wefts strands (serving a decorative role rather than the structural role of knotted carpets) are threaded through a number of warp strands and then looped back.
All SOUMAK have geometric pattern with many tribal motifs all around. Usually the motifs are small birds. SOUMAK's are excellent with contemporary, traditional and modern decors.

The quality of SOUMAK is excellent. SOUMAK is better known in western countries than IRAN. SOUMAKs are proper choice for high traffic area. The ones have silk are excellent choice as decorative rug.The SOUMAKs have different size and majority of them are small size (2x3 feet) and mid size (4x6 feet). It is hard to find SOUMAK in large size (8x10 feet).Dark red, pink, khaki, soft green, blue, dark green, light blue, ivory, brown, rust, and orange are the majority color texture. Soft wool, thin and in the case of silk ones have extremely smooth and shiny texture. Warps are mostly wool or silk, wefts either cotton,wool or silk. The ends of the fibers are usually left loosely on the back. SOUMAK dose NOT have any knots like other rugs and carpets. SOUMAK are flat- woven. There are many different grades of SOUMAK made in this region, ranging from medium to fine. SOUMAK are very valuable specially ones with SILK. Expect to pay $3-$6 Per Square Feet (PSF) for nice SOUMAK made by SHAHSAVAN tribe from ARADABIL.

The location of SHAHSAVAN?

SHAHSAVAN tribe has long history in IRAN. SHAHSAVAN were brave warriors who protected Safavid Shah Abbas in his battles were renowned in history as the "Qezelbash". In the Lunar Year 991 to 994 (1613 to 1616 A.D.), Shah Muhammad Khoda Banda decided to ask volunteer civilians into the army. This act was called "Shahsavan Oulmakh", meaning "becoming Shah lovers". SHAHSAVAN sub-tribes have 29,247 families, with a population amounting to around 174, 490 individuals. Its structure consists of Clans, Families, Gobeks and Khanevars.

More than hundred of thousand of SHAHSAVAN divided into several branches, are living in northeastern Province of ARDABIL. The majority of these people are either living in villages or the townships surrounding provincial capital city of ARDABIL, but they continue to follow their past nomadic customs. Over 5,000 SHAHSAVAN still lead a migratory or semi-migratory life in ARABIL Province.

SHAHSAVAN speak Azari Turkish. The book called "Bostan ul-Siahe (The Garden of Travel)" says: "SHAHSAVAN is a tribe which flourished during the time of Shah Abbas. The reason for their prominence is that a group of ungrateful Qezelbash (red clothed) fighters deserted Shah Abbas and revolted". The king said: SHAHSAVAN, whoever loves the king come and join me. Thus, each tribe that defeated the rebel Qezelbashes were called SHAHSAVAN or lovers of the king by Shah Abbas.

The summer resort of the SHAHSAVAN tribe is the AHAR and MESHKIN elevations at the skirts of Mount SABALAN and their winter resort is the eastern MOGHAN Plain near ARAS River that is 150 km far from the summer resort.
The SHAHSAVAN summer and winter resorts are quite distinct. The tribes first move from the winter quarter to a temporary spring quarter and then to their summer quarter. Upon their return and before settling at winter quarters they stop at an autumnal stopping place which is close to winter quarter.

Their tents, named ALACHIGH, are hemispherical shaped. Another type of tents, called KOOMEH, is long and corridor-like. Both are made over a wooden framework and covered with felt. The ALACHIGH is more than three times the size of a KOOMEH. Each tent accommodates an extended family. The inside, where woman mostly work,is carefully organized. These tribes keep all their belongings here. Food sacks, fat preserved in goat skin, sour milk, cheese, butter, flour, wheat and wool sacks are placed at the side, with bedding, Kilims and Jâjims, mats and small mattresses for sitting in front of them.

There is an oven in the middle of the tent beside . CHESKO,a wooden peg fixed in the center of the tent to which the wooden wheel of the tent top. CHAMBAREH is joined with a rope to protect the tent against winds and storms. If the son of the family gets married, a section of the tent is given to the newly-wed couple for as long as they can not afford a new tent.

The men have no distinguishing clothing. They wear coats and trousers and on a cap (Kepi). The women dress in various areas costumes. Their dresses resemble those of the Kurdish women of KERMANSHAH. Their loose breeches (Shaliteh) are like those of the QASHQAI Tribe. They also put on men's waistcoats decorated with The territory of the SHAHSAVAN tribe is of special importance due to the abundance of its natural resources, and is one of the largest continuous areas suitable for animal husbandry and agriculture. These people also make handicrafts such as Kilim, Jajim, jol-e-asb (horse clothes) and khoorjins (carpet bags).

SOUMAK From SHAHSAVAN

TABRIZ Carpet

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TABRIZ rugs and carpets usually have curvilinear patterns. I should also mention that you find some tribal patterns made in surrounding villages that are sold as TABRIZ.

The quality of TABRIZ rugs and carpets varies. The older ones (before 1945) are very good, but some of the newer TABRIZ rugs and carpets have a lower number of Knots Per Square Inch (KPSI) and they are chemically rather than vegetable dyed. TABRIZ rugs and carpets are highly prized because they are one of the best-looking carpets in IRAN and the world.

TABRIZ rugs and carpets come in different sizes. The majority of them are mi-size (4x6 to 8x10 feet). You can also find large rugs up to 10 x 18 feet.

Colors are Dark red and powerful blue colors predominate, with ivory forming a beautiful contrast. Other colors such as soft green and blue and brown are found in newer carpets.

Texture are Soft wool; thin, tight pile.

Foundation: Warps is mostly cotton; wefts is either cotton or wool.

Inspection of the back of the carpet is important because the weavers in TABRIZ use both Turkish and Persian knots knots. The quality of the carpet depends upon the number of knots, which varies, but averages from around 120 KPSI (30 RAJ) up to 842 KPSI (80 RAJ).

The Price of TABRIZ rugs and carpets are among the nicest looking and finest quality carpets. They are therefore in high demand and are more costly then some other carpets. Expect to pay $4-$35 Per Square Foot (PSF) for a carpet from TABRIZ. Keep in mind that, as a rule, the higher the KPSI, the greater is the price.

TABRIZ City:

TABRIZ, the capital of the northwestern province of Azerbaijan, has for centuries enjoyed a great reputation as a center of oriental culture. Its development from a naturally favored oasis at the foot of the volcano Sahand to today's commercial center, along with descriptions of its many artists and craftsmen, could fill many volumes. The tradition that TABRIZ was founded in the 8th century by the wife of Harun al-Rashid does not bear historical scrutiny. The origins of the town stretch far back into antiquity.

Timur (1336-1405)
Shah Ishmail I (1501-1524)
Founder of Safavid Dynasty
Shah Abbas(1587-1629)
All conquered TABRIZ as a fulcrum between east and west and made it into one of the great cities of their empires, but it was in Shah Abbas the Great (1587-1629 CE) that TABRIZ found its most cultured patron.
Typical TABRIZ Food
KOFTEH TABRIZI

The people of TABRIZ have been spared the devastation of war and severe natural catastrophes such as earthquake over the centuries. In the Middle Ages, TABRIZ witnessed a blossoming of the fine arts that influenced the development of carpet design. Manuscript illuminators, silk embroiders, miniature painters and metal workers all inspired the carpet weavers. The early 18th century saw the end of the Safavid Empire and the decline of the town. Craftsmanship fell into decay.

Carpet Type By Origin

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The first carpet originated where or what exactly is the origin of carpet is difficult to ascertain. However it is believed that the carpets may have first been manufactured in the regions of the Persia (Iran), Turkmenistan, central Asia Mongolia and China which are referred as "Carpet belt".
Whatever be the origin, but the fact remains that carpet weaving has been the most popular art since ancient times. Initially it was used as a floor coverings, to protect the people from cold etc. However as the civilization developed it was began to be used for home furnishing and decoration.
Carpets are being manufactured in different parts of the world. The most famous regions known for their carpets are Persia, India, Turkey, China, Tibet, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Nepal and Armenia. However carpets are also woven in the North American and some of the European countries.
Carpets are both handmade and machine made. Handmade carpets are more beautiful and sophisticated. These carpets are manufactured in unparalleled designs and patterns. Colors are generally natural. It take months to complete the carpet of exceptional quality and value.
Carpets manufactured in different regions differ in designs, patterns, style and finishes. The carpet is usually named after the place where it was made or from the ethnic group who make it. The motives and the colors used on the carpet have a local connection which indicate the place of its origin. Generally we can categorize carpets into following heads:
• Persian Carpets
• Oriental Carpets
• Western Carpets

A Carpet Wonder

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World’s biggest square Nain Rug

As unique variety of special products and services will be display at Domotex Hannover 2009. There will be an attraction of world’s largest carpet.Visitor to hall 17 will be treated to a special highlight : The world’s biggest square Nain rug. 20x20 meters size. Boasting around 490000 knots per square meter, the rug was hand knotted in a single, continuous piece over six year period. A total of 2,250 kilograms of wool, 300 kilograms of natural silk and 1,280 kilograms of cotton went into the filigree design of this rug. The Nain rug represents a specimen of the finest, richest Iranian knotting tradition based on its materials, technique and composition.

Many Types of Carpet

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There are many types of carpets available in the market. This article will help you to choose best carpet for you and for your home. These carpets are different by weaving style.

Cut Pile
The best-selling type of carpet is textured cut pile. Cutting looped carpet fibers at the top creates cut pile with yarn bundles standing straight. Pre-shearing cut pile several times makes a luxurious beautiful look. Cut pile is less resistant to crushing than other types of fiber carpet. Mostly woolen carpets are very popular in this type of weaving style.

Cut and Loop Pile
Cut and loop pile combines cut and looped fibers. It provides a variety of surface textures or sculptured effects for medium durability. Cut and loop pile carpets are available in solid or multiple colors. The different levels in this type of carpet can hide dirt and footprints in formal and informal areas.

Level Loop Pile
Level loop pile is made by weaving even loops of yarn into carpet backing at both ends. This type of carpet is very durable and track resistant because of its strong loops. Higher loops create a more luxurious appearance. Level loop piles with short and densely packed loops are easy to clean. They prevent dirt from filtering into carpet. This type of carpet is good for high traffic areas.

Saxony
Saxony carpets are tightly twisted cut piles that are heatset straight. Saxonies consist of two or more fibers twisted together in a yarn. They provide a soft texture for formal and informal areas. Saxonies show every footprint and vacuum-cleaner mark. These carpets have medium durability. Due to twisted yarn these type of carpet provide a special look to the carpet.

Textured Saxonies
Textures are the best-selling carpets and work well in informal areas (such as family rooms and children's bedrooms) because of its soft feel. Textures are tightly twisted and texture heatset for medium durability. They have a multi-colored look that disguises tracks and footprints.

Velvet/Plush
Velvets/Plushes are lightly twisted and have a uniform color. They are softer and more level than textures. This type of carpet is ideal for formal areas (such as formal living rooms and master bedrooms) because of its luxurious appearance. Velvets/Plushes show every footprint and vacuum-cleaner mark.

Frieze carpet
Frieze is a highly twisted cut pile carpet suited for high traffic, informal areas. It has short fibers that tend to curl in different directions at the surface to hide footprints and vacuum marks.

Berber
Berbers are increasing in popularity faster than any other type of carpet. Berbers limit footprints and vacuum tracks in informal areas. Berbers can have thicker yarns than other level loop pile carpets for high durability. These loops can retain dirt and may be damaged from snags. Berbers come in expensive wool fibers or less expensive nylon, olefin, or nylon-olefin fibers.

Hand Woven
Woven carpet is produced on a loom that is very similar to woven cloth, being cut pile. There are numerous different colored yarns being used and the whole process is capable of producing very intricate patterns from designs that are pre-determined. Generally, woven is the highest quality of carpet available.

Hand Tufted
This type of carpet is produced on a tufting machine by using either a single colored or sometimes a non colored yarn. If non colored is being used, then the carpet will be dyed or printed with a design as a separate process. Carpets that are tufted can either be cut pile, loop pile, or a combination of both. Machines can produce a lot more meters of carpet than weaving, and they are usually at the lower end of the market.

Needlefelt
The needlefelt type of carpet is a bit more technologically advanced. They are produced by electrostatic attraction of individual fibers that form a unique carpet with extremely high durability. You can normally find needlefelt carpet in the contract market such as in hotels or other places where there is always going to be a lot of traffic.

Flatweave
The flatweave carpet is created by interlocking warp and weft threads. The types of oriental flatwoven carpet include soumak, plain weave, and tapestry weave. This type is not well known in the North American region, although it is very popular in the orient and Japan.

Hooked rug
This is a simple construction of rug that is handmade by pulling strips of cloth such as wool or cotton through the meshes of a very sturdy fabric. Now, this type of rug is generally known as a handicraft.

Knotted pile
With knotted pile carpets, the structural weft threads will alternate with a supplementary weft that will rise from the surface of the weave at a perpendicular angle.

Shaggy
These carpets are same a woven carpet. But it have long fibers. Due long fibers it looks like gross and give very soft touch to human body. These type of carpets less durable than other. These carpets are cheaper than other carpets. These are very popular in European countries.

Bakhtiar or Bakhtiari Rugs

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Bakhtiari design is also known as the paneled-garden design, which is the most popular and unique variation of the Bakhtiar. The field of the Bakhtiar rug is divided into compartments or panels, containing individual motifs or patterns. Often a set of 3-4 compartments is repeated throughout the field.

Bakhtiars are sometimes made in conjunction with medallions but usually are all-over rugs.

Although named after a region in Iran near Isfahan called Bakhtiari, the designs origins are with a mixed group of nomads and villagers of Luri, Kurdish, Armenian, Turkoman, and other ethnic origins, now settled in South and Central Persia.
As with most hand knotted rugs, the attributes of Bakhtiars vary greatly from carpet to carpet. There are variations in the patterns, quality of the wool, and fineness of knotting.

The dominant colors of the tribal Bakhtiars are red, blues, and greens. These Bakhtiar rugs, as with most tribal rugs, have 100% wool piles on a wool base.

As with all popular designs, workshops in Iran eventually began to make their own sophisticated versions of the Bakhtiar, and as the Moghul rulers spread the art of carpet weaving to the Indian subcontinent, so too did workshops in South Asia.

These Bakhtiar designs can be found in different textures and weaves. For example, pure silk Bakhtiars from Iran can be found with knotting of up to 800 knots per square inch. In addition, weavers in Pakistan make the Bakhtiar designs with wool piles and cotton bases, with up to 400 knots per square inch and with very detailed, intricate patterns.

Oushak Carpets

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Oushak Carpets
Ushak a small town in Anatolia, Turkey is the place where Oushak carpets are being made since 15th century. They have high decorative value and unlike other Turkish carpets, they are highly influenced by the Persian styles. In the 15th century for the fist time the carpets were made with a commercial purpose. Before this, carpets were a utility product for the nomadic tribes.

The specialty of oushak rugs are that designing and weaving are considered two different works. They are made from the best Turkish wool colored by natural dyes. These capets had access to the international market. And found a respectable place for themselves in the Ottoman Palaces. They are 100% wool carpets still much in demand in the European markets.

Heriz Carpet

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Heriz Carpets
Heriz carpets range from the coarse thick rugs with a heavy handle to the finer rugs with a softer handle. Most of them have a large single medallion in the center that has eight edges. They vary in sizes to a large extent. Light red, brown and sky blue are the primary colors where blue is used for contrast and contours. Brown, beige and turquoise shades indicate antique pieces.

They primarily have a geometric pattern outlook complimented with flowers, twines and vases. They are typically furnishing carpets rather than art carpets even though they do not in any way compromise the art part. It is the massive size that sets them aside as furnishings only. They are a little square than other Persian carpets.

Wraps of Heriz carpets are always cotton but the weft may be wool. The pile is always woolen and is soft with a medium thickness. The knots are Turkish type with a tight texture. It has a sturdy construction with a thick, hardy weaving wool. The yarn is dyed with vegetable colors.

Staple/Synthetic

2008-06-05T01:39:00.000-07:00

Staple/Synthetic Carpets
Staple/Synthetic carpets are synthetic hand knotted carpets with a silk feel. They may be designed and patterned in the same way as a silk carpet and present the same aesthetic values. They may be finely knotted with 250 or more knots per square inch. For the purpose of making carpets, six types of synthetic yarns may be used:

Nylon: This is the most popular synthetic carpet fiber. It offers tremendous value, performance, and ease of maintenance. Nylon provides brilliant colors and handles soil and traffic well. They can be acid dyed or chemical dyed. Once converted to fiber

Polypropylene (Olefin): This fiber is extremely popular in Berbers and level loops. These carpets are highly stain, static, mold, and mildew resistant and can be easily used as indoor or outdoor carpets. Their resistance to matting and crushing are not as good as a nylon fiber.

Polyester: Though polyester lacks the durability of nylon , it offers better color clarity and a soft feel to the carpet. They should be avoided in high traffic areas. They donot have high pile heights. It is manufactured in staple fiber only.

Acrylic: It gives a real wool appeal. It is used mainly in level loops, bath mats, and some velvet carpet styles. It offers good mold and mildew resistance with low static levels. Due to its tendency for pile reversal it is not much used in carpets now a days. Another problem with the fiber is that it burns quickly.

The main carpet producing centre of Staple/Synthetic carpets are Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir), Agra and Gwalior.

Asia’s Fashion Jewellery and Accessories Fair

2008-03-12T02:37:00.000-07:00

Asia’s Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Fair, Hong Kong is considered as one of the best fair for Fashion Jewellery, Accessories and related products range.

EPCH has booked space in above fair. The fair will be held from 19th To 22nd June,2008 at Hong Kong.

Hong Kong represents tremendous business opportunities in Asian market. A record numbers of exhibitors and visitors turned out for the Asias Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Fair-2007. The fair, held at the Asia World Expo, Hong Kong in last year attracted a large number of international buyers.

Drawn by the success of the show, visitors, apart from China, Taiwan, Thailand and South Korea also came from Austria, Canada, France, Germany, United States, The Netherlands, U.K. and other parts of the world. The show has become one of the largest tradeshow of its kind held in Asia.

For participation in Asia’s Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Fair, A standard booth of 9 / 12 & 15 sq. mtr. will be provided against the payment of @Rs.21,500/- per sq. mtr. The charges includes built-up stand with Carpet, Furniture, spot light, name fascia other common facilities & listing in fair catalogue.

However, the other expenses towards freight of goods, specific display aids and personal expenses like air fare and stay will be borne by the participants themselves.

Interested members may please forward their application along with a Demand Draft of Rs.1,50,000/- in favour of EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL FOR HANDICRAFTS payable at New Delhi.

The balance amount will be deposited after selection of participant. Please specify the products to be displayed in enclosed application form.

The complete application along with requisite amount should reach to the Council's office latest by 30TH SEPTEMBER, 2007. If the applicant withdraw their participation after selection, the amount deposited along with application will be forfeited.

Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts

Indian Handcrafts & Gifts Fair -2008

2008-02-26T04:24:00.000-08:00

Announcement of India Expo Center

28th February ~ 4th March, 2008
28th February ~ 4th March, 2008

at INDIA EXPO CENTRE, NEW DELHI -GREATER NOIDA EXPRESSWAY

Welcome to an exciting journey of discovery at IHGF - Asia's largest exposition of gifts and handicrafts covering a mammoth 97,000 sq. mts. exhibition area, giving you a really big opportunity to source from staggering 1800 manufacturers & exporters loaded with top quality merchandise.

With an impressive track record of 24 successful shows offering top quality merchandising opportunities, the Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair has increased in scale, grown in participation, excelled in show management and has become even more attractive as a sourcing destination.

IHGF Spring 2008 is professionally organised and efficiently run show located at India Expo Centre & Mart - one of the latest & new exhibition complex at New Delhi- Greater Noida Ex-press way ,Greater Noida. It will take about 45 minutes from center of Delhi i.e Conaught Place in the heart of India's capital city, New Delhi.

Here you will find an international buyer's lounge, full communication and transport facilities to make your business discovery enjoyable as well as successful.

Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair is brought to you by Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts under the aegis of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Goverment of India. It provides comprehensive information to foreign buyers on the entire range of handicrafts of India and liaisons between Indian handicrafts exporters and foreign buyers.

New Carpet Weaving Machine- by Schönherr

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Carpet weaving machine have been developed by Schönherr in the name of Alpha 400 series. They presented their machine at the Domotex trade show in Germany this year.

Domotex Visitors interested in the carpet weaving machines ALPHA 400 EASYSYSTEM. The Schönherr product range offering the latest technology for a variety of applications.

It is a high Efficiency and high speed machine. The ALPHA 400 series carpet weaving machines are state of the art solutions for producing any kind of area rugs and wall-to-wall carpets. Typical applications cover the residential, contract and transportation sector.

Customers from all over the world combined their trip to the trade show with a visit to the German city of Bayreuth where Schönherr and its parent company Stäubli maintain a showroom exposing the new carpet weaving machine ALPHA 400 INNOVATION in operation.

Domotex is a global showcase for carpets, textile and resilient floor coverings plus laminate and parquet flooring. This year it took place from January 12-15 in Hanover, Germany and has set new records.

It drew attendance by more than 47,000 trade visitors from 80 nations and 1,400 exhibitors occupied some 97,000 square meters of display space.

Schönherr will again be present at Domotex Asia, taking place March 11-13, 2008 in Shanghai/China: hall W2, booth 2J16

Tips for buying a carpet

2008-01-17T20:05:00.000-08:00

Tips for buying and owning carpet
1-Make sure that the carpet has been graded by an independent carpet grading program such as the Australian Carpet Classification Scheme, the Woolmark/Woolblendmark Scheme, or the Fernmark Scheme.

2-When comparing prices make sure you are comparing apples with apples. Most carpets are priced by the broadloom metre (measures 1 metre by 3.67 metre), but some floor products retailers also price by the square metre. If you are comparing carpet prices to other flooring products – vinyl, ceramic, timber, laminate, etc – remember all these products are priced by the square metre.

3-Ask your retailer about the type of underlay best suited to the carpet and your installation. A good underlay will improve foot comfort, absorb crushing forces, overcome minor imperfections in the floor, and improve thermal and acoustic properties.

4-Talk to the retailer about how the carpet will be installed and ask them to provide a installation plan. Where possible, seams should be away from windows where falling light may exacerbate the joins; seams should be avoided in high traffic walk ways such as corridors and doors; and if carpet is being installed in joining rooms, the carpet’s direction of manufacturing should be the same throughout the house.

5-Make sure you keep record of the manufacturer, the grading registration number, the type of underlay, any warranty information and a small piece of unused carpet.
6-Consider buying a little extra carpet as a reserve to replace damaged areas. If you are carpeting stairs, think about buying enough carpet to recover the stairs in a few years time. On stairs, carpet wears faster than in other areas around the home.

7-Protect your carpet from prolonged periods of direct sunlight with blinds, shades or awnings.

8-On the day the carpet is being installed, and for a day or so after, open as many doors and windows as possible. The carpet needs to ventilate and breathe for a few days after it is installed.
9-If you don’t already have one, buy a good vacuum cleaner. Not only will it remove abrasive soil, (which abrade the base of the carpet pile), but modern cleaners with multi-filter systems will safely remove the finest dust particles.

10-To protect against uneven wear and compression, use furniture caps under the legs of heavy furniture, periodically move your furniture to more evenly distribute carpet wear and place barrier mats at outside doors to trap dirt from shoes.

Everything about carpet and floor coverings

2008-01-16T03:36:00.000-08:00

Dear friend,
If you want to know about carpets, rugs and floor coverings. You must visit my website www.nageshbind.com . There you may know the answer your following questions.

1. Type of carpets
2. Type of rugs
3. Type of wools being used in carpets & rugs
4. Where you should purchase a carpet.
5. How you can take care of your carpets
6. Popular carpet titles
and many more....

Kindly send your suggestion if you want any more.
hanks