Art Of Weaving
Since time immemorial, the art of carpet making has captured millions of carpet connoisseurs from around the world and still continues to do so. It is an ancient traditional form of craftsmanship that require definite skills and expertise. In Nepal too, Carpet weaving is an old age tradition. It was practiced mostly by people in hilly and mountainous region using locally available wool and traditional looms. The influx of Tibetan refugees into Nepal in the early 1960s helped to industrialize the carpet industry as they brought along their refined skill and techniques of carpet weaving.
Production Process
Carpet making is an ancient traditional craft. It involves great craftsmanship and certain level of expertise on the part of the weaver. Although some carpets manufacturers may use some special weaving techniques, the principles of manufacturing hand-knotted carpet from designing to finishing are almost the same throughout the world.
Carpet Materials
Wool
The predominant ingredient in a carpet is wool. Tibetan wool, also known as Himalaya wool, is produced from a Tibetan mountain sheep “Changphel”. Grazed over 14,000 feet in extremely cold temperature, these sheep develop long fleece with tensile strength and high level of Lanolin content which makes it the most durable, soft and luxurious wool in the world. Tibetan wool is known for its fine quality and durability. New Zealand Wool is from merino sheep found in Australia and New Zealand. It is of the excellent quality, finely crimped and soft. As it comes in pure white color, this wool is best for light colored carpets.
Silk
Various kinds of natural or synthetic silk are used in carpet for design and texture effect. Silk adds gorgeous sheen when blended with wool and gives a touch of sophistication to the carpet. Chinese Silk is a soft, luxurious silk from silkworm (Bombyx mori) cocoon, which is known for its highest quality and price. Bamboo Silk is a natural fiber extracted from the Bamboo plant while Banana silk is a natural fiber from banana tree. They are an economical alternative to Chinese silk.
Natural Fibers