1 - It is biodegradable:
Since handwoven carpets are made from natural materials: wool, cotton, silk and hemp (to name but a few), they are biodegradable and non-toxic. A large number of weavers also use vegetable dyed materials (i.e. plant based dyes: flowers, leaves, roots, bark, etc).
2 - It is long lasting
Each single handwoven carpet has the ability to become an antique carpet (surviving well over 100 years) because of the method of weaving and the materials used, which means one carpet can serve many generations if it is well maintained; or it can be sold to a new owner who can also enjoy it for decades before passing it down or reselling it.
3 - It doesn't use electricity
They are handwoven and require no electricity to produce in any of the stages of production. Also, because of the materials used in making them they serve as insulation which could reduce electricity costs during cold months.
4 - It is economically sustainable
Weaving carpets is a skill that provides an income to millions of weavers (regardless of gender, culture, race, class, level of education or religion). It is a skill that can be passed down to future generations. Moreover, it is an industry that provides an income to millions of wool producers, cotton growers, silk producers, dye makers, carpet designers, weavers, carpet markets, carpet retailers, carpet cleaners & repairers, etc.
5 - It's maintenance is environmentally friendly
Handwoven carpets are hand washed with organic soap and dried in the sun, so its maintenance footprint is practically non-existent. Even though water is used in the cleaning process, handwoven carpets only require a washing every 3 - 5 years. Other than that "spot cleaning" with foam requires minimal water.
6 - It is recyclable
The wool of fragmented and worn carpets are used by carpet repairers and restorers to restore old and antique carpets, in order to maintain its authenticity Many old carpets are also re-purposed to make cushions, chairs, handbags, shoes, covers, etc.
7 - It is educational
Many antique carpets find their way to museums where we and future generations can view them. They show us what textile weavers in previous centuries did and how design evolved over time. It gives us a tangible history of civilizations, that would otherwise only be available in writing. Modern weavers continuously use the ancient library of carpet designs in their work. It is also highly effective as sensory, colour and shape stimulation tool for children.
8 - It is sustainable art
None of the natural resources or environments used are destroyed or damaged in the making of a handwoven carpet. In fact, a concerted effort is made by all parties concerned to ensure the well being of animal and plant life used in the production process. Weavers historically were very important members of society and today still benefit the economies of their respective countries. It is an art form that encourages patience, resilience and creativity and it brings endless joy to its end-users.
9 - It is a product that gives back
It is an investment, some more substantial than others, but every handwoven carpet becomes an asset that can be traded if ever need be. It is very versatile. It is not just a beautiful piece of art, but it can be a floor cover, a couch cover, a box cover, a table cloth, a bed cover, a wall hanging or a roof hanging. There is not a single room that it is NOT suitable for and wherever it is placed, it will most certainly enhance the aesthetics and bring in joy.
The bottom line is: you can buy that handwoven carpet with a clean conscience, knowing that you are contributing to sustainable art and environmentally friendly products!
