Knot Density in Hand-Knotted Carpets
Knot Density in Handmade Carpets
When it comes to buying a handmade carpet, one thing many people overlook is knot density. But for us as carpet sellers, it’s something we always pay attention to. It's not just a number — it tells you a lot about the quality, durability, and craftsmanship of the rug.
What is Knot Density?
Knot density means how many knots are tied per square inch (KPSI) or per square decimeter (KPD). In simple words — the more knots, the finer and more detailed the rug. A higher knot count usually means the carpet took more time and effort to make.
For example, a rug with 200 knots per square inch can have very intricate patterns and smooth textures. But that doesn’t mean lower knot count rugs are bad — they just have a different feel and use. Some tribal and village-style carpets have fewer knots but still last for decades.
Why Knot Count Matters?
- Durability: Higher density carpets are tightly packed, which makes them last longer with proper care.
- Design Clarity: More knots allow for more detailed and sharp patterns.
- Time & Labor: It takes much more time to weave a high-knot rug, which increases its value.
- Price: As sellers, we price rugs based on knot count too — among other things like material and origin.
Common Knot Densities
In our MWCarpets collection, we see a variety of densities depending on the origin and style of the rug:
| Type of Rug | Average Knot Density (KPSI) | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Bokhara | 120–280 | Symmetrical, Traditional |
| Persian Tabriz | 200–400 | Floral, Complex |
| Tribal Rugs | 60–150 | Geometric, Coarse |
Our Suggestion as Sellers
If you're choosing a rug for your living room or an area with daily use, go with something above 150 KPSI. It’ll give you a balance of beauty and strength. For decorative purposes or collectors, anything 250+ KPSI is a top-tier piece.
We always guide our customers to pick rugs based on where they’ll use them, not just the numbers. Every rug has its purpose — and we’re here to help you find the right one.
Conclusion
Knot density is one of the key things that separate a machine-made rug from a real, handmade piece. At MWCarpets, we’ve been dealing in handmade carpets for years, and we know how to spot the good ones.
We invite you to explore more in our detailed guide here: Knot Density in Handmade Carpets – Full Guide.
If you ever need help choosing a rug or just want to ask about knot types, you can always reach out to us. We’re not just sellers — we’re here to help you find art for your floor.
I never realized how much knot count affects not just the look but also the durability of a rug. When we bought one for our bedroom, the seller mentioned density but didn’t explain it this clearly. Do you think higher knot count carpets are always worth the extra cost for everyday use?
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