The Ancient Art of Silk Rugs

Every once in a while, you get the chance to check off an item on your bucket list and this summer was my chance. Having Italian roots, I’ve always wanted to tour the Amalfi Coast and the Mediterranean. So my husband and I took the term “carpe diem” to heart and made it happen aboard a cruise ship.

Envisioning the trip, I knew I’d be stepping back in time – touring ancient relics and seeing amazing works of art. But I didn’t know I’d have the opportunity to witness history in action. In this case, the ancient art of silk rug production.
As an interior designer, I don’t know how many times I’ve brushed my hand across the fibers of a silk rug or admired its sheen, but I had no idea the silk production process is even more intricate than the rugs themselves!

The History of Silk Production

While in Turkey, I got to witness first-hand the harvesting of silk from the cocoons of silk worms.

I was intrigued to learn silk production began in China and the Chinese kept the secret of silk to themselves for over 2,000 years. Evidence of silk production dates back as far as 3000 BC, but the practice is believed to be far older.
Sericulture (silk farming) reached Korea around 200 BC when waves of Chinese immigrants arrived there. It was then only a matter of time before the practice spread westward.

Silk Production

To produce silk, the cocoons of silk worms are heated and then dipped into hot water to loosen the tightly woven filaments.

The cocoons are then unwound into single fibers, which are spun into thread. The threads can then be dyed and have an elegant luster.

But don’t confuse elegance for weakness. It’s estimated that if a fiber of silk could be produced with the diameter of a pencil, the fiber could lift a 747 aircraft!

Once the threads are dyed, skilled artisans weave the threads by hand into intricate designs and patterns. The end result is nothing short of stunning!

Characteristics of Silk Rugs

Rugs crafted from silk are valued for their durability, rich colors and distinctive luster. They’re also soft with a sheer velvet feel. But silk is expensive, difficult to clean and can show footprints, so it’s often mixed with other fibers, like wool, when creating a rug to increase durability and lower cost.
A silk blend rug can offer the best of both worlds: beauty and durability. And when decorating, they can transform any living space!
By the way, we absolutely loved our trip.  We both love to travel and experience different cultures, we’re dreaming of our next adventure!
 

Source of Images: Barbara Gilbert Interiors