Types of Hand-Knotted Carpets

Types of Hand-knotted Carpets

Hand-knotted carpet types are numerous as they are obviously the piece of fine art with no alternatives. It does not matter if it is a Pakistani Carpet or a Persian Carpet. If it's hand-knotted it will valued. The detailed patterns, natural colors, organic patterns are some features that highlights hand-knotted carpets

types and classification of hand-knotted carpets

Introduction

 

Hand-knotted rugs are some of the most valuable and costly rugs in the world. People like them because they show a refined style and appreciation for art. Skilled workers spend many hours creating these rugs, which are loved for many years. Hand-knotted rugs usually have charming designs and fine details. Because they require a lot of time and skill, makers use high-quality materials, mainly wool from young sheep. These rugs never go out of style and look better as they get older. They become more valuable over time and enhance their surroundings. They are also easier to clean and take care of than synthetic rugs. Their strength and lasting quality are unbeatable.

These carpets are famous around the world for their detailed designs and quality. The skill of carpet weaving in Pakistan has been handed down through many generations and remains a sign of talent. Among all different kinds of rugs, wool rugs are the original form of them and have thousand years of history. This fiber, obtained from sheep, is a natural fiber. They are easy to clean. If taken good care of, they can last for more than fifty to a hundred years. These days wool rugs come with other synthetic fiber blends. Blended fibers make carpets and rugs inexpensive yet durable.

Various types of Persian rugs, hand-knotted, are a significant investment that gets more precious with time. The older they get, the more valuable they become. The cost is high basically of the length of time, the physical effort, and the scarcity of laborers for developing these rugs. Oriental rugs are the most expensive rugs out of all other types of rugs, and there are many types of oriental rugs made in India. They have more dense designs in them, and they are handmade well as machine-made. Consider the one made in original silk and handpick them by visiting the rug store.

Characteristic

Main characteristic of hand-knotted carpets is this that they are formed by millions of knots (which is also called knot density) tied individually onto a foundation. After the knotting is finished, the rug is shaved to the desired pile size. These rugs have a distinct front and back side. The front side has the plush look with a soft touch, whereas the back holds the knotted surface. Iran, Pakistan, China, India, Afghanistan and Turkey states are known for producing the best quality hand-knotted rugs.

The quality of the wool used is the basic factor that lays the foundation for a superior quality rug. The workmanship involved along with the design and the numbers of knots are the elements which together make a masterpiece to be cherished. The density of the wool and the ply of the yarn made from the wool differ according to the different types of the hand-knotted rugs.

Quick Tip

You need to know the following things proceeding to the types of hand-knotted carpets.

knot density in hand-knotted carpets

Knot Density in Carpets

Knot Density is the measurement of knots placed in a specific unit area of hand-knotted carpet. It usually calculated in unit if KPSI (knots per square inch) or in KPSM (knots per square meter)

knot in rugs

Knots in Rugs

There are two basic types of knots which are preferred by the craftsmen for hand-knotted rugs. The Senneh knot and the Ghiordes knot are used in good quality handmade rugs. The third type known as the Jufti knot is also used but not preferred. It is considered inferior and this technique is not used in supreme quality rugs.

Types

The hand-knotted types are numerous, they are divided by origins & regions.

Hand-knotted Pakistani carpets are known for being softer and more affordable than many others. They’re usually made with wool or a wool-silk blend on a cotton base, giving them a feel and strong build.

Hand-knotted Persian carpets are #1 famous for their colors, designs, and high knot density. Made mostly with fine wool or often with silk, they’re often softer but more expensive than others.

turkish carpet type

Turkish Carpets

Turkish carpets are known for their bold patterns, bright colors, and strong double-knot technique. Often made with wool on wool or wool on cotton, they’re durable and slightly thicker.

Indian carpets are valued for their detailed designs, vibrant colors, and smooth texture. Often made with wool or silk on a cotton base, They’re known for being elegant and durable

Chinese Type Carpets

Chinese Carpets

Chinese carpets are known for their soft feel, pastel colors, and simple, elegant designs. Made mostly with silk or wool on a cotton base, their motifs are like dragons or flowers. These rugs are smooth

Tribal Type Rugs

Tribal Rugs

Tribal rugs are made by nomadic or village weavers using simple tools and natural dyes. They bold geometric patterns and earthy colors, These rugs are durable and full of character.

Comparison

The hand-knotted types are numerous, they are divided by origins & regions.

Key Features of Popular Hand-Knotted Carpet Types
Types Knot Density Materials Design Style Common Colors Durability Affordability
Pakistani Medium to High Wool & Silk on Cotton Floral, Curved, Tribal Rich Reds, Blues, Earth Tones Very Durable Affordable
Persian High (300–900 KPSI) Fine Wool or Silk Highly Detailed, Classic Deep Reds, Navy, Ivory Extremely Durable Premium
Turkish Medium Wool on Wool or Cotton Geometric, Tribal Bold Colors, Contrasts Very Durable Moderate
Indian Medium to High Wool or Silk on Cotton Persian-Inspired, Local Blend Warm, Jewel Tones Durable Affordable
Chinese Low to Medium Wool or Silk Minimal, Symbolic Pastels, Soft Tones Good Moderate
Tribal Low to Medium Wool on Wool Geometric, Symbolic Earthy, Natural Dyes Highly Durable Affordable

Unique Factors

Each carpet category hold it’s own charm and features.

  • Pakistani Carpets: Known for their affordability, soft texture, and elegant patterns using wool-silk blends on cotton foundation.
  • Persian Carpets: Famous for their high knot density, luxurious silk detailing, and intricate, time-honored motifs.
  • Turkish Carpets: Recognizable by bold geometric designs and double-knot construction for extra durability.
  • Indian Carpets: A mix of Persian tradition and Indian artistry—offering vibrant colors, smooth finishes, and accessible pricing.
  • Chinese Carpets: Softer, often pastel-colored, with symbolic designs like dragons and flowers, mostly made of silk or fine wool.
  • Tribal Rugs: Handmade by nomadic weavers using natural dyes and bold, earthy patterns that reflect regional stories.
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