The popularity of Ikat rugs is the reason why Ikat rugs for sale is becoming the trendy search keyword in different parts of the world.
But what is handmade Ikat rug and what’s unique about them, what makes them popular and should you invest in handmade Ikat rugs?
Let’s understand everything you should know about handmade Ikat Rugs.
First things first.
What is Ikat?
The word Ikat comes from the Indonesian word 'Aikat' which means to tie or bind. It 's very popular in Asia because of its bold patterns.
Ikat is a type of pattern created by dyeing fabric before it's woven into the final product. It requires multiple stages to make sure that the pattern takes hold and doesn't fade or wash away after one or two washes which is why they're so expensive.
These rugs are made from natural fibers which is why they're usually on the more durable side of things. They're designed to last for a long period of time and they can even be passed down from one generation to the next!
History of Ikat Handmade Rugs
The history of Ikat rugs is rather interesting. When the weavers originally started making them centuries ago, they used naturally occurring patterns in nature such as water and animal prints to weave the designs into the fabric.
They would then dye the fabric before weaving it and that's how these Ikat rugs were created.
The name for this technique comes from the weavers actually tying certain knots into their warp threads to achieve a striped appearance in their fabrics.
This isn't done with any other type of rug so there really is no comparison between an Ikat and another kind of rug. Be it handmade Oushak rug or Gabbeh rug.
Because of how difficult creating these types of rugs was, you can imagine why people would want one so bad.
They are some of the most beautiful works of art that a person can have in their home.
It's not just the appearance of them either, as they are also incredibly soft and comfortable under your bare feet.
Ikat Patterns: What's Special About Them?
The patterns that you will find on handmade Ikat rugs are unlike any other.
They have a symmetry to them and the design flows beautifully from each end of the rug to the other.
The fabric is designed in such a way that both sides look identical, which is why many people get confused when they're shopping for them online.
There aren't too many differences between the front and back because it's impossible to tell which is which! The color pattern is just the same on both sides.
These types of rugs are typically made out of cotton and wool but some may also be made from silk too.
You'll find that cotton blends usually cost a little less than pure silk ones but either of them is a good investment.
The Hand Weaving Process of Ikat Rug
The process of Ikat starts with the warp thread. Warp is a kind of yarn that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction in which you will have your rug.
The weavers then tie certain knots into these threads for them to show up on the fabric, and the rest of the process lies in dyeing it properly so it has color.
It's an ancient process and one of the oldest forms of weaving!
Warp Thread Preparation
This step is done before the weaving process begins. The weavers need this to create their pattern, and it also makes sure that finished products look uniform too.
They always tie one knot into warp threads at the end of every row which ensures that each side has identical design.
Dyeing
This is where all the magic happens! Right after the weavers have tied their knots into warp threads, they take the pieces over to a vat of dye.
Sometimes several dyes are used so it can give off different hues at once which is what you see when you look at your Ikat in sunlight and indoors.
Cotton, jute, and wool are all used to dye the threads before they're woven into the final product which is why it's important for them to be so durable because lots of natural materials are needed in order to dye them.
The weavers will then submerge each piece and let it soak for a while.
Once they feel that it has been dyed enough, they take the piece out and hang it up to dry for a couple of days.
After drying is complete, they wash their work to get rid of excess dye and fix any mistakes too.
They then tie different knots in warp threads with a crochet hook which forms a pattern when the fabric is rolled up.
This step ensures that the fabric has color on both sides and the knots become visible.
This part of the process may be repeated several times until the weavers get a pattern that they are happy with.
Then, to make it beautiful and increase its longevity, they will then rub starch into the fabric.
Different Pattern Designs of Ikat Rugs?
When you search Ikat rugs online, you will find many different designs. The only thing that determines the right design is where the weaver decides to tie their knots into the warp threads.
Each knot will result in a stripe of color but it all depends on which colors they choose for each knot.
There are no rules or limitations, so there really isn't anything stopping them from creating whatever color pattern they like best.
The size of an ideal Ikat rug depends on your personal preference! The size doesn't affect the price, so it's really up to you when it comes to how big or small you want your rug to be.
It can range anywhere from two feet by three feet all the way up to nine feet by twelve feet!
Color of Ikat Rugs
Since the pieces are made from naturally occurring fabrics, they have a high level of craftsmanship.
It's incredibly difficult to weave something in a unique and beautiful way that is also very hard wearing so your rug will last you a long time.
They come in many different colors and patterns but most of them have reds, blacks, and whites which make up the main color scheme.
You can use them in any room of your house, not just the living room or bedroom.
You can place one in your kitchen, entryway, and even your office! They are perfect for adding some warmth to any dreary room you decide to put it in.
Are Ikat Rugs Popular?
Ikat rugs have become very popular in both the United States and many parts of Europe like the UK, Germany, and France. Ikat rugs are very trendy right now.
They've been around for centuries but they're starting to become more and more popular as time goes on.
Many people across the world are starting to recognize their beauty which is why you can find them in many different homes across the world.
Today, rugs like this aren't tied together by hand in most of the world; now they use machines to finish them off but the original weaving is still done by hand.
Since these pieces are rare, and only Ikat experts craft these masterpieces in Asian countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, they are quite expensive than machine Ikat rugs
Why Should You Buy an Ikat Rug?
- They look amazing in any home's interior, making it distinctive and adding a lot of warmth to any room.
- The colors are rich and vibrant which is what you need if you have dull, boring furniture in your home.
- They can be easily washed or dry-cleaned whenever they start to show signs of dirt.
- It may even be the only rug in your home that has a design that is unique to you.
- They are extremely durable and pretty much last a lifetime if you take good care of them.
If you love fabrics and textiles then do look for the Ikat rug for sale as it is right up your alley.
Give one a try if you haven't before; it completely changes the look and feel of any room that you put it into for the better!
