AFGHAN CARPETS

 

As more carpets are being produced and global sales continue to grow, the outlook for Afghanistan’s carpet industry is very positive.Afghanistan produces several types of handmadecarpets, including wool carpets (Namads), non-pile fabric carpets (Kilims) and pile and knotted carpets made from wool, silk and cotton.  

 

World-renowned for intricate designs, Afghan carpets reflect the heritage of cottage-based craftsmanship that has been passed down through the generations.Afghan carpets express the country’s rich art, culture and history through the exquisite, hand-woven patterns and textures, and are an integral part of Afghanistan’s national identity.With an affordable workforce and cost-effective raw materials, Afghanistan has a competitive advantagein the production of high quality, reasonably-pricedcarpets.Although carpet weaving dominates the Afghan textile industry, cotton, wool, silk and cashmere products are also made to high standards in Afghanistan.

 

 

THE USE OF NATURAL DYES IN THE CARPET-MAKING PROCESS GIVES AFGHAN CARPETS THEIR UNIQUE CHARACTER

 

• The wool for spinning comes from the central highlands of Afghanistan.

• Natural dyes are used for coloring mainly roots, bark, reseda, curcuma and pomegranate skin.

• Natural dyes not only afford the carpets their unique character but also are more resistant to premature fading.

• Drying the freshly dyed wool in the sun takes around two days.

• The designs are drawn following ancient patterns that have been handed down through the generations.

• Carpet weaving by hand is labour-intensive and requires extreme concentration to ensure precision.

• Once the weaving is complete, the carpets are washed.

• The carpets are then cut, requiring great care and attention to detail.