The number of knots in Persian carpets

I hear "the more detail the better"... but what exactly is the difference?

The term "knot count" almost always appears when talking about Persian carpets.

but,

"What exactly is a knot?"

"Why is it good to have lots of knots?"

What exactly changes when the numbers change?

I would like to delve into the "knot count," which is essential when discussing the quality of Persian carpets, from the basics to some more nerdy topics.

What is a knot anyway? Why do we bother to tie one?

First, the most basic of basics. "Knot" means "tied together" in English. Persian carpets are made by hand tying each strand of colorful pile thread to the warp threads. The number of knots is calculated by counting the number of knots per area of ​​the carpet.

You may be thinking, "What? Do they have to go to the trouble of tying them? Can't they just weave them normally ?" However, this mind-boggling process of "tying each strand individually" is the secret to creating the wonderful characteristics that are unique to Persian carpets!

Reason 1: The secret to that "fluffiness"! A comfortable feeling underfoot By tying the threads and cutting the ends, many pile fibers stand up on the surface of the carpet. Because each fiber is independent, the base is firmly supported, creating a bouncy, fluffy feeling underfoot. The unique comfort you feel under your feet every time you walk is thanks to this knotted structure.

Reason 2: Surprisingly "durable"! The reason they can be used for a long time is that each thread is firmly tied to the warp threads, making them extremely durable. Even if the surface pile becomes worn, the threads will not fall out unless the knots are untied. Since it is difficult for the knots to affect neighboring knots, even if one part is damaged, it is unlikely that the entire area will suddenly become unusable. This is why Persian carpets can be used for decades, and sometimes even for over a hundred years.

This time-consuming process of "tying" is the very foundation of the comfort and durability of Persian carpets.

The meaning of Persian carpet knot numbers

Persian carpets are produced in various places, but one that is particularly famous is Qom, known for its beautiful silk carpets. These silk Persian carpets from Qom actually have a certain "guideline" or "standard" regarding the number of knots.

That is, "there are approximately 10 to 11 knots per centimeter."

This is like the "standard for Qom silk Persian carpets," derived from the thickness of the high-quality silk thread used in Qom and the level of weaving techniques that have been passed down for generations. It is precisely because of this range of knot count that Qom is able to achieve a good balance of the intricate and beautiful design that is unique to Qom, the luster of silk, and sufficient durability. The threads and materials used are often prepared to meet this standard.

So what if it falls outside this range?

• If the knots are less than 10 per cm: It may not be from Qum, but from another place. Or, unfortunately, it may be a carpet of a different quality, made in China or elsewhere, which has become increasingly common in recent years. (Of course, there are plenty of great carpets out there, regardless of their origin or quality!)
• 12 to 14 knots per cm: This density is only woven by a handful of workshops (even in Qom), such as the Jamshidi workshop. The number of such workshops is extremely small, making it extremely rare. Simply put, 10 knots per cm (1 million knots per square meter) is roughly double the total number of knots at 14 knots (approximately 1.96 million knots per square meter). The higher the density, the more difficult it is to weave, and the longer it takes to produce.
  
• Above 14 knots per cm:

  It's important to note that, although extremely rare, there are handwoven carpets with an ultra-high density that exceeds 14 knots per centimeter, making it hard to believe they could have been made by humans. These carpets are truly exceptional masterpieces that require a great deal of skill and time.

  On the other hand, there are also machine-woven carpets on the market. Machine-woven carpets do not create knots in the first place, but instead use a different method to plant the pile, so you cannot see the knots on the back like you can with hand-woven carpets.

  In particular, in recent years, there has been an increase in cases of individuals, whose details about the seller are unknown, using titles such as the following to list machine-woven items (as if they were hand-woven masterpieces) on auction sites.

  • (Example) "Top quality Persian carpet, from Qom, Iran, 100% silk, approximately 2.25 million knots, high density."

  • (Example) "Top quality, rare Persian carpet, 100% silk, hand-knotted, 2.89 million knots, extra large size, from Qom, Iran."

  These are machine woven.

  To know whether it is truly hand-knotted or made using a completely different method, you need to check the back of the item or rely on reliable information. Just because it is fine does not mean it is good.

  If you have been tricked into buying machine-woven fabric (disguised as handwoven), it may be a scam, so please consider filing a police report.

About the knot metric

Due to the nature of hand-woven fabrics, the number of knots may vary slightly depending on the measurement position. Measurement standards may also differ between specialty stores and workshops, so this is only a guideline.

By the way, at our shop (Golestan), we publish photos of all our products with a ruler to show the number of knots so that you can check for yourself. On the other hand, you may want to be wary of retailers that don't publish photos with a ruler.

You can tell the quality by looking at the "back"! Is it made of bricks?

What is the best way to tell if a carpet is good?

This is because the quality of the carpet, the skill level of the maker, and the care taken in the work are clearly and undeniably reflected on the back of the carpet.

Imagine the brickwork involved in building a house. If each brick is laid neatly and straight, without any gaps, it will create a strong and beautiful wall, right? But if they are crooked or full of gaps...it can be a bit worrying.

The back of a Persian carpet is similar to this. Each knot is like a tiny brick, measured in millimeters.

• How uniformly sized are they?
• Is it packed tightly with no gaps?
• Are the rows straight and neatly woven?

By looking at this, you can see how carefully and with what skill the carpet was woven.

A truly good carpet has a beautiful pattern on the back as well, is smooth to the touch, and has a tight weave. A carpet that has been woven with such care and attention to detail even down to the back is proof that a lot of time and effort has gone into making it, and is therefore extremely valuable.

summary

We have delved a little deeper into the "knot count" of Persian carpets.

• A knot is a "tied knot."
• By tying each strand individually, we are able to create a comfortable feel underfoot and amazing durability.
• The quality of Qum silk is estimated at 10-11 knots per centimetre.
• And that careful work is honestly reflected on the back.

The knot count is certainly an easy-to-understand and important "gateway" to understanding the quality and value of a carpet. It is also true that the higher the number, the denser and stronger the carpet tends to be.

But what's even more important is to feel the "value of handwork" behind those numbers. The time, skill, and passion of the craftsman that goes into each and every knot.

If you have the opportunity to see a Persian carpet, try to think not only about the number of knots but also about the story behind each knot. You will surely find the carpet even more precious and special.

[For advice on choosing a Persian carpet, click here]

Golestan, a Persian carpet specialty store, will help you find the perfect carpet to suit your room and lifestyle. Our expert staff will be happy to assist you with choosing from our wide selection, so please feel free to consult with us.

• Check the size and texture in a physical store: Store address and access information
• View carpets in various sizes in our online store: Go to online store
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