Pile-Knotted
Individual wool knots tied around warp threads, row by row, then clipped. The surface is warm underfoot, acoustically dense, and slow to make.
Definition
In pile-knotted weaving, the weaver ties individual knots of wool yarn around pairs of warp threads, row by row. After each row, weft threads lock the row in place, and the pile is clipped to the desired height. Knot density, measured in knots per square centimetre, determines pattern fineness and pile quality.
Two primary knotting systems are used globally: the symmetrical (Turkish/Ghiordes) knot and the asymmetrical (Persian/Senneh) knot. Moroccan Amazigh pile-knotted rugs generally use a symmetrical knotting structure, though regional variation exists.
Why it matters for buying
Pile height, knot density, and pile condition are the three most important factors in evaluating a pile-knotted rug. An unrestored piece with honest wear is worth significantly more than one that has been chemically washed or had its pile artificially evened.
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