Persian carpet weaving and craftsmanship | Differences and characteristics of horizontal and vertical looms

The World of Weaving Machines that Support Persian Carpets: The Appeal of Horizontal and Vertical Weaving Machines

Persian carpets are loved all over the world. The secret lies in the traditional techniques used to weave them all by hand. And the tool that is indispensable in weaving carpets is the "loom." The type, structure, and usage of the loom greatly affect the size, design, and production time of the carpet. In this article, we will explain in detail the types and characteristics of looms used for Persian carpets, and the craftsmanship behind them.

1. Types of looms

There are two main types of looms used for weaving Persian carpets: horizontal looms and vertical looms. Both have important roles in weaving carpets, and they are chosen according to the purpose and working environment.

Horizontal loom

• Characteristics: Placed horizontally on the floor, mainly used by nomads.
• advantage:
  

1. It is simple, lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for a mobile lifestyle.
2. The carpets are relatively small in size and tend to have simple designs.

• Usage:
  
• The warp threads are stretched parallel to the ground and the weaver sits down while weaving.
• Since the loom can be quickly set up wherever they travel, it is ideal for nomads to weave rugs and mats for use in their daily lives.

Vertical loom

• Characteristics: A large loom with the warp threads stretched vertically, used by craftsmen who reside in urban workshops.
• advantage:
  

1. It is suitable for weaving large carpets and intricate designs.
2. The tension of the warp threads can be precisely adjusted, making it possible to produce high-density, durable carpets.

• Usage:
  
• The weaver sits on a chair and weaves the weft thread while tying knots as he goes.
• Its large size makes it more stable and allows for more delicate and artistic designs.

2. Structure of the loom

Both horizontal and vertical looms have the same basic structure: **stretching the warp threads and weaving in the weft threads.** Below are their main parts and their functions.

Warp threads

• These important threads are tightly stretched on the loom and support the "framework" of the carpet.
• If the warp threads are loose, the density and durability of the carpet will decrease.

Weft thread

• Threads that are tied to the warp threads and woven widthwise.
• It increases the strength of the entire carpet and shapes the design.

beam

• A rod for winding up the woven section.
• As the weaving progresses, the carpet is rolled up to provide more space to work.

Tension Adjustment Device

• A device that keeps the tension of the warp threads constant and ensures uniform knots.
• This tension has a great influence on the quality of the carpet and how easy it is to weave.

Loom use and technology

Weaving Persian carpets is a process that has been passed down for centuries and requires great skill in operating a loom, especially a vertical loom, where the craftsman must sit for long periods of time to weave each knot individually, demanding concentration and patience.

• Reproducing the design: The artisan refers to the design (karigar) and proceeds with the weaving, accurately matching the colour of the thread and the number of knots.
• Knot management: The denser the carpet, the more of a long-term challenge there is as to how many knots can be woven per day.

Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Looms

Characteristics of horizontal looms

• Portability: Perfect for nomads who are constantly on the move.
• Size/Design: Most of the carpets are small in size and are useful as everyday rugs.
• Simple structure: No major adjustments are required and it is lightweight so it can be used outdoors.

Characteristics of vertical looms

• Large-scale production: Suitable for large carpets and intricate patterns.
• Finely adjusted warp tension: Allows for high density and intricate designs.
• High stability: The frame is firmly fixed and does not easily deform, even when weaving for a long period of time.

Craftsmanship and loom adjustments

The value of a Persian carpet depends not only on the weaving skill of the artisan, but also on the tuning of the loom.

• Warp tension: If the warp threads are stretched with the correct tension, the carpet will retain its shape and beautiful pattern for a long time.
• Use of patterns (karigar): The technique of accurately reading the karigar and matching the number of knots and colors.
• Colour balance: When using natural dyes, artisans need to distinguish between numerous colours and control the weaving sequence.

Evolution of the loom and modern technology

As modernization progresses, the number of machine-woven carpets has increased, but the reason why Persian carpets continue to be highly regarded around the world is because of the unique charm and texture that can only be achieved through hand-woven carpets.

• The true value of hand-knotted carpets: They have a precision and texture that cannot be replicated by machine, and the more you use them, the more they develop their own character.
• Durability that transcends generations: With proper care, they are durable enough to last for decades, and in some cases, even a century or more.
• Value as art: Each piece is a work of art, handmade by an artisan, and its unique appeal is what makes it so popular with collectors.

summary

The Persian carpet loom is an important tool that upholds tradition and craftsmanship.

• Horizontal looms are well suited to weaving small carpets and rugs for nomadic lifestyles, and are useful for mobile communities.
• Vertical looms are used in urban workshops to weave large carpets with intricate patterns, making it possible to increase the density and durability of the carpets.

Regardless of which loom is used, the craftsman's skill and the adjustment of the loom combine to create a Persian carpet that can be used for generations as a work of art. This technique, which has been handed down through tradition, continues to preserve a special beauty and value that cannot be obtained with modern machine technology.