Details
The process of making a silk-on-cotton Kashmiri carpet shares some similarities with the production of silk-on-silk carpets, but with variations in materials. Here’s a general overview of how a silk-on-cotton Kashmiri carpet is made:
1. Designing:
Like silk-on-silk carpets, the process begins with designing the carpet. Skilled artisans create intricate patterns and designs on graph paper.
2. Yarn Preparation:
In the case of silk-on-cotton carpets, the base or foundation is made of cotton, while the pile or surface is made of silk. The cotton is cleaned, sorted, and dyed for the warp and weft threads, while high-quality silk is used for the pile.
3. Setting Up the Loom:
The loom is prepared by stretching the cotton warp threads tightly in parallel lines. This creates the foundation for the carpet.
4. Knotting:
The weaver uses the predetermined design, knotting the silk pile around the cotton warp threads. The choice of knotting technique (Persian or Turkish knot) depends on the design and the weaver’s preference.
5. Weaving:
The weaver meticulously follows the design, creating the intricate patterns by knotting the silk pile. This process requires precision and skill to ensure that the knots are consistent and tightly packed.
6. Shearing:
After completing a section of the carpet, the pile is often longer than the final desired height. The carpet undergoes shearing to achieve the appropriate length, revealing the intricate patterns and creating a smooth, even surface.
7. Washing and Finishing:
The completed carpet is washed thoroughly to remove any residual dyes and impurities. Subsequently, the carpet is left to dry in the sun. After drying, additional finishing processes may include stretching, ironing, and adding fringes.
8. Quality Control:
Artisans inspect the carpet for any imperfections to ensure it meets the required quality standards. Corrections or adjustments are made at this stage if necessary.
9. Final Inspection and Packaging:
The finished carpet undergoes a final inspection for quality and design standards. Once approved, it is carefully rolled, packaged, and prepared for shipment.
The craftsmanship, attention to detail, and expertise of the artisans play a crucial role in creating a high-quality silk-on-cotton Kashmiri carpet, known for its combination of the softness of silk and the durability of cotton.
