The Soft Melody rug from the "Soft Melody" collection is a contemporary design originating from the region surrounding Agra, India. Handwoven by skilled artisans, these rugs showcase a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation.
The rug's material is a luxurious combination of imported, long-staple New Zealand wool (50-75% of the blend) along with either superior local wool or South African wool. This unique composition ensures a shiny and lustrous finish that sets it apart from rugs made solely from local wools. The imported New Zealand wool is carefully hand-carded and hand-spun into yarn, supporting the local economy.
Notably, the yarn used in these rugs has a distinctive single-ply characteristic. Unlike common two-ply yarns, each knot in a Soft Melody rug incorporates a single thread, resulting in a thicker and denser yarn. Combined with the use of an asymmetrical Persian-type knot, this creates a nubbier texture with pronounced knots that enhance the rug's tactile and visual appeal.
These rugs are renowned for their 6x6 quality, reflecting the intricate craftsmanship involved and contributing to their robustness and design clarity. With a 100% wool pile and a cotton foundation, these rugs have tightly spun cotton warps and are mostly double-wefted. The pile height approximates 3/8 inch, providing a comfortable yet durable surface.
The yarn's handspun nature ensures subtle color variations, giving each rug a unique aesthetic. Artisanal dyeing techniques using high-quality chromium (chrome) dyes contribute to the longevity of the rug's vibrant hues. These dyes, primarily imported from Switzerland, are applied in India, combining international and local resources.
Overall, the Soft Melody rug exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Its contemporary design, luxurious materials, and intricate construction make it a standout choice for any space.