Today Tibetans and local Nepalese have begun to expand their artistic horizons. Patterns from other Persian, Turkish, European, and Southwestern motifs are now increasingly used by Tibetan artisans in addition to contemporary designs which are becoming popular. In addition, weavers have started working closely with the consumers to bring life to individual designs and color schemes.
Whatever their ethnic origins, Tibetan/Nepalese rugs have a compelling simplicity complimented by a color spectrum spanning from the rich reds and blues to the soft lavenders and grays. Both natural vegetable and synthetic dyes are used to enrich the artisans palette of colors.
How Himalayan Rugs are made Weaving a rug the traditional Himalayan way requires hand-processing carefully chosen raw materials - wool and hand-weaving often complex designs using a technique that is unique simple.
Wool
First step in rug making by skilled artisans begins on the high grasslands of the high Himalayan plains. Sheep from these plains are adapted to the harsh climate by growing wool that consists of long fiber, exceptional durability, softness and remarkable lustrous quality.
