HAND-TUFTED
The process in which weavers use a single-needle tool to push yarn through the back of
cloth (such as canvas) that has been stenciled with the rug pattern. A secondary backing
protects and anchors the yarn.
HEIRLOOM WASH
A special process that gives a new rug an antique look by reproducing the sheen that is otherwise acquired over time.
KILIM
A flat-weave rug with a tapestry-like design, originally used as a protective wrap for
finer hand-knotted rugs, such as
wool rugs.
MEDALLION
A large motif set off from the field, usually in the center. Typical shapes are round,
diamond, octagonal, or hexagonal. A small flower or bouquet motif at the top and bottom
of a
medallion is called a pendant.
NEW ZEALAND WOOL
The whitest wool, so dyes produce truer, cleaner colors. Wool offers the greatest durability and develops a lovely patina while retaining its softness. It is also naturally flame-resistant.
OUSHAK
A rug characterized by large motifs in earthy colors with reddish accents. Inspired by the weavings of Turkish nomadic tribes, who used limited colors, simple designs, sturdy yarn and large knots.
PILE
The surface of the rug, sometimes called the "nap" or "face." Pile height is determined
when the yarn is cut after knotting or tufting, and is measured from the backing to the
tip of the yarn. A hand-knotted rug has a lower pile than a hand-tufted rug.
SAVONNERIE
A style of hand-knotted rug with a floral medallion, open field, and broken borders. The
original 17th-century Savonnerie workshops in Paris created weavings for royalty and
visiting dignitaries.
SOUMAK(SOUMAC)
A technique for creating a flat-weave carpet in which wefts are pulled over, then wrapped
under, a series of warps.
TABRIZ
A major weaving center for centuries and the term for a double-weft rug with Turkish
knots. Typical Tabriz patterns include medallions, hunting motifs, and pictorial rugs.
A broad category between traditional and contemporary. Many floral patterns are included
in this category.
VEGETABLE DYES
Natural dyes produced from berries, roots and bark. Their subtle colorations give rugs
an antique look.
