Rugs have been an integral part of homes for more than 2,500 years. Through the centuries, the methods for making rugs have changed. Although they started as functional works, rugs have since evolved into more decorative expressions. Whether it’s traditional or contemporary style, making a rug is a complicated task. Many of the tools used to create rugs have remained constant through the years. All rugs begin with a unique design than is carefully drawn out. In recent years, designers have used computer programs to aid in this process.

Rugs can be woven from many different materials, but wool is the most preferred. Wool rugs have shown to outperform rugs made from other types of fiber. Wool is resistant to excessive wear being walked on daily. It also cleans better than any other fiber and it certainly helps that it is more flame resistant than most other fibers.

To begin the rug-making process the raw wool is spun into yarn. It is then separated and washed. From there the yarn is dyed by skillful craftsmen. Pre-19^th century rugs were made of natural dyes. Modern rugs use chemical dyes. These chromium dyes are more resistant to being washed out and have a wide spectrum of colors.

Next, the loom is prepared for the weaving process. It is time consuming but a pretty basic process. Most large rugs are made woven on a vertical loom. Once the rugs are finished at the loom they are sheared and then thoroughly washed. This washing gives the rugs a silky texture and sheen.

Finally, the rugs are dried and usually have the designs hand cut to ensure that the intricate patterns are accentuated.

That’s how rugs are made these days. The process is similar as the one used hundreds of years ago but modern technology has helped us create them with more ease. Even with the technology, a lot of work and effort goes into creating the rugs that use to decorate our homes.