Carpet

Ardabil Carpet

Wollteppich 1

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Turkish wool carpet

A carpet seller in Jaipur

Moden carpet illustrating camel caravan on Silk Road. Kashgar

Carpet is a textile floor covering typically consisting of an upper layer of pile attached to a backing. The pile was traditionally made from wool, but since the 20th century, synthetic fibers such as polypropylene, nylon or polyester are often used, as these fibers are less expensive than wool. The pile usually consists of twisted tufts that are often heat-treated to maintain their structure. The term "carpet" is often used interchangeably with the term "rug," though rugs are typically considered to be smaller than a room and not attached to the floor.

History

The history of carpets is long and varied. The earliest surviving carpets come from the Persian Empire, with the oldest being the Pazyryk carpet, which dates back to the 5th century BCE. Carpets have been an important part of Persian culture for thousands of years and were also significant in other cultures across Asia, including the Ottoman Empire, Mughal Empire, and the Ming Dynasty in China. In Europe, carpet production began significantly in the 14th century, with notable centers in Spain, France, and later, England.

Types of Carpets

Carpets can be divided into several types based on their construction and material:

• Woven Carpets: Produced on a loom, similar to fabric, and can be very intricate in design. They are generally the most expensive type of carpet.
• Tufted Carpets: Made by inserting yarn tufts into a pre-formed backing and then applying a secondary backing to hold the tufts in place. Most domestic carpets are tufted.
• Needlefelt Carpets: Technologically advanced carpets known for their durability, created by intermingling and felting synthetic fibers.
• Knotted Carpets: Include traditional hand-knotted rugs like Persian and Oriental rugs, where each pile yarn is knotted individually.

Materials

Carpets can be made from a variety of materials:

• Wool: The traditional material for carpets, known for its durability and softness.
• Nylon: Offers excellent wear resistance and can be dyed easily, making it the most popular synthetic carpet material.
• Polypropylene: A less expensive alternative to nylon, it is resistant to stains, making it a popular choice for areas prone to spills.
• Polyester: Known for its luxurious look and feel, polyester carpets are stain and fade-resistant but can be prone to crushing and shedding.

Installation and Maintenance

Carpet installation requires careful planning and preparation, including measuring the room, choosing the appropriate underpad, and cutting the carpet to fit the space. Maintenance varies by material but generally includes regular vacuuming, immediate stain removal, and periodic deep cleaning to extend the life of the carpet.

Environmental Considerations

The production and disposal of carpets, particularly those made from synthetic materials, have raised environmental concerns. Efforts to address these include recycling programs and the development of carpets made from renewable resources or materials that are easier to recycle.

Cultural Significance

Beyond their practical use, carpets have significant cultural, artistic, and religious significance in many societies. They can symbolize wealth and status, tell stories, or serve as a focal point for social gatherings.

Carpet Resources
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