Rug Knot Count Guide: Quality, Value & What Matters in Rug

Introduction:

Rug Knot Count: The Sense and the Meaning

The term knot count can be encountered during the purchase of a rug and especially a handmade rug. This is something that most consumers would not understand and this is crucial in defining quality, longevity and value of a rug. You can be either an amateur shopper or a professional collector, but knowing the number of knots in the rug will enable you to be more informed.  We will unwind all the details as to the number of knots in a rug: What the number of knots in a rug is, how it is counted, and why this fact is needed when you want to find out what rug to have in your room.  

What Is Rug Knot Count?

The number of knots per square inch (KPSI) or per square meter of a handmade rug is called its rug knot count. The knots per square inch are a symbol of where the yarn is tied upon the backbone of the rug thereby contributing to the overall structure and design of the rug.  The number of knots make the pattern of a rug more detailed. But number of knots is not the sole parameter to determine the quality of a rug. 

The Measurement of Knot Count In two senses, the number of knots is actually often counted: 

Knots per square inch (KPSI): 

This is an extremely common measure in the western market. 

Knots per square meter (KPSM): 

KPSM is usually applied in the regions where rugs should be made.  To calculate KPSI, the number of knots in a square inch of the rug is listed down by professionals. This gives a good idea of the degree of density of the rug.  

The reason why the number of knots is a matter of concern in a number of ways in the case of a rug:  

1. Design Detail  

The number of knots can be made bigger to produce more complicated and sophisticated designs. This is necessary especially when there is a complicated floral/geometric pattern on the rugs.  

2. Durability  

Tighter packed fibers of the rugs make densely knotted rugs more durable. This will be more befitting to them in busy locations.  

3. Feel and Texture 

There are more knots on the floor that generally create a more smooth texture, particularly with finer materials like silk.  

4. Price  

The more knots used in making one rug, the more time and expert work it takes to make it, and the higher the value and price it brings.  

Knot Count Ranges 

Not a very large number of knots are necessary to make all the rugs good. The general breakdown is as follows 

Low Knot Count (50-150 KPSI):
 
The rugs in this section are not so decorative and are usually inexpensive. 

Medium Knot Count (150-400 KPSI): 

These rugs are utilized as decorative and functional.
 
High Knot Count (400-1000+ KPSI): 

It is a high quality rug that is designed and made beautifully. They are normally perceived as opulent.  

Is More Knots Adding to More Quality?  

Myth: The number of knots is not solely responsible for the quality of a rug, it does effect but it is not the only factor.The other quality criteria are:
 
Material: Wool, silk or a mix weaving style: machine made or hand-knotted. 

Dye color: Natural dyes and synthetic dyes.

Art: Art of the weaver.  

An example will be a wool rug with an average number of knots being stronger than a silk rug with a high number of knots in a busy area.  

Knot Count as per the Rug Type  

The origin and type of rug determines the number of knots in a rug. 

1. Wool Rugs  

Wool rugs do not have a lot of knots, they have a medium amount of knots, however they are very strong and can be used on a daily basis.  

2. Silk Rugs  

The silk rugs will be able to have very large numbers of knots and hence intricate designs and very rich texture.  

3. Tribal Rugs  

The primary characteristics of the tribal or nomadic rugs with fewer knots are cultural authenticity and striking design.  

4. Persian Rugs  

Persian decorative traditional rugs can have many knots, depending upon their place of origin and design. Of the best examples, others have very high knot densities.  

Checking knot count  

Sometimes the number of knots could be determined when buying a rug in person by observing the back of the rug. Take the number of knots per inch, one inch, horizontally and vertically, multiply the figures. Check description of products. 

Myths of Knot Count. 

Myth 1: The more knots there are in it the longer is the lifespan. Durability can be increased with the density, but the size of the material and use are even more determinant of the durability of a rug.  

Myth 2: High Knot Count Rugs Only Worth Something.  Some of the rugs with low-knot count like the tribal ones can be of great value due to its cultural significance.  

Myth 3: Machine knotted rugs.  Machine-made rugs do not have any actual knots. Instead, they use art of weaving which simulates the appearance of knots.  

The question of the number of knots to use 

It will be determined by the type of living and the location in which the rug will be made. 

Living Room: Medium size knot for living room.

Bedroom: Added more rows to bed to make it more comfortable and soft. 

Hallways: Light to moderate knot density due to high traffic of feet. 

Ornamental Spaces: So many knots to make a show.  Do not just think of density without considering the use of a rug.  

Maintenance and Longevity  
No matter how many knots there are, it is important that you take good care of your rug in order to ensure that it remains beautiful and stable. 

Vacuum regularly 

Do not spend a long time in direct sunlight

Turn the rug over to wear it

Clean spills immediately 

Hire househelp when necessary

Decades of wear: A good rug can last decades, no matter how many knots it has.  

Investing in the Right Rug  

Knowing the amount of knots will lead you to think about the question whether a rug is as cheap as it is supposed to be. However, it has to be always considered when other factors like material, craftsmanship and design are taken into consideration. You are spending money on an expensive rug, you must have time to research, shop and check on authenticity. A good rug is not simply something that could be bought, but something that is permanently there in your house.

Conclusion: 

The amount of knots in the rug is a significant factor of the quality of the rug, and not the only one. With this knowledge of knot density in relation to design, longevity and value, you can make a better judgment when purchasing a rug. You may like a plain basic rug or a very detailed luxurious rug but all that matters is to find one that suits your needs, lifestyle and personal style.