The Craftsmanship
Rug Making in Nepal
The tradition of rug making in Nepal dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in the culture of various ethnic groups residing in the region, however, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that Nepali rugs gained international recognition for their quality and artistry.
I went to Nepal to learn how to make rugs, I’m still learning…but fell in love with the place, its people and it changed my life.
I learned and saw a great many things on that first trip, the experience compelled me to want to make my rugs here.
The art of rug making in Nepal was greatly influenced by Tibetan refugees who settled in the region during the mid-20th century, these refugees brought with them the ancient Tibetan tradition of rug weaving, which blended seamlessly with Nepales’s own textile heritage.
Nepali rugs are world-renowned for their craftsmanship. Skilled artisans, often generations of weavers, meticulously create each rug by hand, using techniques that have been passed down through the ages. These artisans employ hand-knotted and hand-weaving methods to produce intricate and durable rugs.
The high quality of materials plays a crucial role in Nathalie Dougé Tapis. The finest rugs are often crafted from Himalayan wool, known for its softness, sheen, and durability. We also like to use silk in our designs the silk whether it is Matka silk or Chinese silk adds luster and detail to the designs.
All of these have had a very positive impact on Nepal, providing employment opportunities to many in rural areas. Many rug-making workshops in Nepal are part of fair trade initiatives, ensuring that artisans are paid fairly for their work. In addition, the workshop Nathalie Dougé Tapis employs is part of the Goodweave family.
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