At Eastern Mills, we believe an informed customer is our best partner. Understanding the craft behind each rug—from construction techniques to fiber properties—helps you appreciate the artistry and make confident choices for your space.
This guide shares nearly eight decades of knowledge from our master artisans in Bhadohi, offering insight into the processes that transform raw materials into heirloom-quality pieces.
How Rugs Are Made
The construction method determines a rug's texture, durability, and character. Each technique represents generations of refined skill.
Hand-Knotted
Individual knots are hand-tied on a vertical loom one row at a time by expertly trained artisans. Depending on the density of the knots, rugs of this construction can last for generations.
- Each knot is tied individually by hand onto the warp threads
- Intricate and textural hand-carving with high-low pile effects
- The average hand-knotted rug takes 240 days to make
- Features durable wool or wool blends with luxurious silk or viscose
- Knot density ranges from 25 to 400+ knots per square inch
- Can contain up to 1.8 million individual knots per rug
Hand-Tufted
The hand-tufted construction features precise designs, often has a plush pile, and is made of wool and/or viscose fibers. There are several rug-making techniques within hand-tufted construction.
- Yarn is hand-punched through a pre-woven fabric with a specialized tufting gun
- A cotton-latex backing is applied to hold the tufts in place
- Offers strength and rigidity to the rug structure
- Hand-hooked rugs are not sheared after the tufting process
- Allows for precise pattern execution and consistent pile height
- More efficient production while maintaining handcrafted quality
Handwoven & Hand-Loomed
Handwoven or hand-loomed rugs are made on hand-operated looms where weavers use a rod to shoot the fibers vertically across the length of the rug, creating beautiful flatweave textures.
- Created on traditional hand-operated looms by skilled weavers
- Fibers may be felted or twisted wool yarns, soft viscose, or natural fibers
- Usually have low to medium piles for a sleek profile
- May or may not include a canvas backing depending on design
- Ideal for high-traffic areas due to their flat construction
- Reversible designs available in many flatweave styles
Understanding Rug Materials
The choice of fiber affects everything from texture and durability to maintenance and longevity. Each material brings unique characteristics to your rug.
View All Materials
New Zealand Wool
Sourced from the pristine highlands of New Zealand, this wool is renowned for its exceptional whiteness, strength, and resilience. The unique climate produces fibers with natural crimp that creates lofty, durable yarns.
Key Properties
- Exceptional durability and resilience
- Natural whiteness for vibrant dyes
- Naturally water resistant
- Sustainable & renewable fiber
Silk
Nature's most lustrous fiber, silk adds an incomparable sheen and elegance to handcrafted rugs. Its natural protein structure creates a smooth, luminous surface that catches light beautifully.
Key Properties
- Luminous sheen and light-reflecting
- Incredibly strong despite its delicacy
- Natural temperature regulation
- Perfect for formal, low-traffic spaces
Cashmere
Harvested from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, this fiber represents the pinnacle of natural luxury. Its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and cloud-like softness make it highly coveted.
Key Properties
- Supreme softness to the touch
- Lightweight warmth
- Natural luster and sheen
- Rare & precious fiber
Alpaca
Softer than cashmere and warmer than sheep's wool, alpaca fiber is a sustainable luxury. Naturally hypoallergenic and available in 22 natural colors, it creates beautifully textured rugs.
Key Properties
- Hypoallergenic & gentle on skin
- Warmer than traditional wool
- 22 natural colors available
- Eco-friendly production
The Art of Wool
Wool remains the gold standard for quality rugs, and at Eastern Mills, we source only the finest fibers. Our wool comes from ethically sheared sheep, processed with care in our own spinning facility.
The natural properties of wool—its resilience, soil resistance, and ability to hold vibrant dyes—make it unmatched for rugs that will be treasured for generations.
Caring For Your Rug
Proper care ensures your handcrafted rug remains beautiful for generations. Follow these guidelines to protect your investment.
Regular Vacuuming
Vacuum your rug regularly to remove dirt and prevent it from settling deep into the fibers. Use a brushless suction head for delicate rugs.
Rotate Periodically
Rotate your rug every 6-12 months to ensure even wear and fading, especially in high-traffic areas or rooms with direct sunlight.
Spot Clean Promptly
Address spills immediately by blotting (not rubbing) with a clean, dry cloth. Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.
Professional Cleaning
Have your rug professionally cleaned every 1-3 years depending on traffic. Always use cleaners experienced with handmade rugs.
Use Rug Pads
Quality rug pads prevent slipping, reduce wear, and protect both the rug and your flooring. Replace pads when worn.
Proper Storage
Store rolled (never folded) in a cool, dry place wrapped in breathable fabric. Add moth repellent for wool rugs.
Rug Sizing & Placement Guide
The right size rug can transform a room. Use these guidelines to select the perfect dimensions for each space.
Living Room
- All furniture legs on the rug, or at minimum, front legs of sofas and chairs
- Leave 12-18 inches of bare floor between rug edge and walls
- Common sizes: 8x10, 9x12, or larger for open floor plans
Dining Room
- Rug should extend 24 inches beyond the table on all sides
- Chairs should remain on the rug when pulled out
- Consider table shape when selecting rug shape
Bedroom
- Place rug under the bottom two-thirds of the bed
- Allow 18-24 inches of rug to extend on each side
- Runners work well on either side of the bed
Entryway
- Size should be proportional to the entry space
- Low-pile or flatweave for high-traffic durability
- Consider indoor-outdoor options for weather resistance
The Eastern Mills Difference
What sets our rugs apart is not just technique or material—it's the combination of heritage, ethics, and uncompromising quality.
Vertical Integration
From yarn spinning to final finishing, every step happens under our watch. Complete quality control, complete traceability.
Artisan Heritage
Our 2,000+ artisans carry forward generations of knowledge. Skills refined over 78 years in Bhadohi, India's rug capital.
Ethical Production
GoodWeave certified, fair wages, safe conditions. Every rug represents our commitment to doing business the right way.
Ready to Explore?
Now that you understand the craft, discover our collections or connect with our team to discuss your project.