FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the difference between a hand tufted rug and a hand knotted rug?
Hand tufted rugs are made using a tufting gun which uses high pressure air to shoot the yarn through a hollow needle onto a base of backing material which is held firmly on a frame. This enables a skilled person to produce an intricate design on the backing like painting a canvas. This is the fastest way to make a pile rug by hand. This type of rug often has an adhesive coating at the back to keep the tufts in place. This is a modern and popular method because it is very fast.
Hand knotted rugs are made by the same technique as has been used for hundreds of years to make Oriental rugs. This involves knotting the yarn onto a warp stretched on a loom to form rows of individually tied knots. Then a row of plain weave is woven between each row of knots to form the base of the rug and hold the knots in place. There is no need for an adhesive backing, the knots are tied firmly and held in place by the weaving process. This traditional method takes much longer to produce a rug than using a tufting gun. For more details on how the Handweaver hand knotted rugs are made click on this link.
Can I obtain a sample before I buy?
Yes, you can obtain a small sample of these rugs - please click on the photo link for each individual rug on the hand knotted rugs page.
How can I commission a rug to be made specially for me?
The Handweaver can produce a rug or wall hanging specially for you with your choice of size, colour and design. Click on this link for more details.
How should I clean my rug or wall hanging?
Regular vacuuming will keep the rug clean. Never use an upright vacuum cleaner on the rugs because the revolving brushes may be too harsh. On an upright vacuum cleaner the upholstery brush attachment on the end of the hose can be used to remove dirt and dust. The carpet attachment on a cylinder vacuum cleaner can be used. Shaking the rug or wall hanging outside will also help to remove dust. If some sticky dirt falls on the rug, it can be gently sponged clean, do not rub because this just pushes the dirt more firmly into the rug. If you drop liquid onto the rug, use a towel to suck up the liquid by pressing the towel down firmly on the spill. Do not rub. A spot cleaner for upholstery can be used for sticky dirt. When the whole rug needs cleaning, use carpet shampoo or a specialist cleaner or steam cleaner. The foam carpet cleaners in aerosol cans such as Scotch Gard and Vanish are good and do not make the rugs too wet. I do not recommend washing the rugs in the bath because it is difficult to dry these thick rugs and because the colours may run if the rug becomes very wet.
Can I return the goods?
Yes, if you are not satisfied with the product when you receive it, you can return it and receive a refund. The details of the Returns Policy are on the Terms and Conditions page.
Shipping Countries outside the UK
Please note the price includes shipping costs within the UK mainland ONLY.
I do not ship outside the UK because the shipping costs are very high. Sometimes the shipping cost is more than the cost of the rug.