FAQs

FAQs

Handmade or hand-knotted rugs are the most desirable of all. In a hand-knotted rug, the pile –usually wool – is tied to the foundation, which is usually cotton. This gives them the durability to last for generations. They are made by expertly skilled artisans, carefully woven in exquisite designs and beautiful colours so they make wonderful heirlooms. The Carpet Cellar deals mostly in handmade pieces.

Hand-tufted rugs are made partially by hand and partially with a tool that helps punch strands of wool onto the canvas of a carpet. These are less time consuming to make and do not require the same level of skill. We only do hand-tufted rugs on special orders for large projects.

The final type of rug is the machine-made rug, which is made using a power loom.

 

The Carpet Cellar stocks antique collectibles (known as Vintage Classics on our website) from the 19th and 20th centuries. These have been acquired from the royal families of India as well as private collectors.

To view our collection of Vintage Classics, click here.

We also have a Traditional Classics range, in which you’ll find some of the most cherished designs from around the world, recreated with love and care. This range is hand-knotted in fine wools and silks, using time-honoured techniques and sustainable processes.

To view our collection of Traditional Classics, click here.

For those who prefer more contemporary designs, our Modern range is a carefully designed collection inspired by the Old Masters of carpet-making and recreated by today’s artisans. These carpets are hand-knotted in natural fibres like silk, wool, and sisal, using traditional techniques.

To view our collection of Modern Carpets, click here.

Our Transitional Carpets are newly minted treasures made in natural, durable fibres like silk and wool. We recreate treasured patterns or beloved styles in sophisticated palettes and soothing tones to suit today’s aesthetic, while keeping old techniques alive.

To view our collection of Transitional Carpets, click here.

For those who want to make a statement, the Tribal Rugs and Kilims may be of interest. This collection includes rugs woven by the nomadic tribes of Persia, Morocco, Turkey, and Africa, and are bright, vibrant, and strikingly patterned.

To view our collection of Tribal Rugs, click here.

In our carpet manufacturing process, we recreate older techniques and prefer to maintain authenticity by using natural, vegetable dyes where possible. When not feasible, we ensure that we use only Azo-free dyes that are free from harmful or toxic chemicals.

A change in color in the field or border of a rug is called an ‘abrash’. The color change can often extend across the rug, left to right, following a weft yarn. This is due to differences in wool or dye batches used in the weaving of the rug. Rather than being seen as a flaw, an ‘abrash’ is appreciated by carpet lovers as a testament of handwork and natural dyes.

Antique or vintage carpets are treasured heirlooms that are viewed as investments. However, if you love the look of the historical designs, you can still find a beautiful, good quality carpet that fits your budget. Consider browsing our Transitional or Modern ranges for pieces that have been made more recently, and are more likely to suit your requirement. Don’t forget to factor in raw material and labour costs when deciding what you are looking for. Silk yarn is more expensive than wool, and silk carpets also require more time and skill to weave because of the more intricate patterns. Wool and sisal are gorgeous (and durable) natural fibres that will add a rich and textured appeal to any space.

For hand-knotted rugs, the manufacturing time depends on carpet size and intricacy of design. A small rug measuring 3×5 feet could take an artisan 1-2 months to make, while a medium-sized rug measuring 5×8 feet could take the artisans several months to create. Some of the museum quality antique pieces or the very intricate silk masterpieces can take years to complete.

Yes, The Carpet Cellar does customize carpets. Customizing a carpet is a labour- and resource intensive process that requires a great deal of time and a close level of collaboration at all stages. From design, to making a ‘naksha’ (carpet map), to dyeing the yarn and then weaving the rug itself, the process can take between six months to a year after commissioning.

The underlying principle behind hand-knotted rugs is quality. Apart from their beauty, it is their durability that makes them highly sought after. Pets and children need not deter you from buying fine rugs. Hand-knotted carpets are made to withstand daily wear and tear and high traffic and will last for decades. Hand-knotted rugs are also easy to clean and maintain.

Many regions of the world have their own traditions and designs when it comes to carpets, and each have a unique appeal. Authentic hand-knotted carpets were made in Persia, India, Africa, China, and many other regions.

A hand-knotted rug is made by knotting the pile into the foundation, making it strong and durable. A well cared for hand-knotted rug could last as long as 80 years or even more. This also accounts for their expense.

The majority of our carpets are manufactured using natural dyes (insect and vegetable) and natural fibres (wool, silk, and cotton). If you are allergic to any of these components, then it may be avoidable to own a hand-knotted rug.

However, if you are sensitive to dust and are concerned about this, regular vacuuming or brushing of carpets should keep allergies at bay.

Yes. The Carpet Cellar has restoration professionals on hand to evaluate and restore your piece. Please contact us for a thorough evaluation at [email protected]

Most items commonly found in living areas – tables, chairs and couches – can be safely placed on carpets. We recommend shifting heavy pieces of furniture periodically over the year so that it prevents any uneven crushing of the carpet’s pile.

Plants should never be placed on top of the carpet, even with a water basin beneath the pot. A splash from a careless watering can or any accidental leakage can damage the carpet.

We provide certification of all our vintage and antique carpets. A certificate of authenticity will be provided to you that records the carpet genealogy, approximate age and relevant information on symbols and motifs.