Journal
Natural Materials behind every Knots Rug
Each Knots rugs rug weaves a narrative rich not only in color and design but also in materials. The rugs are intricately crafted from materials sourced from the lush silk fields, the majestic Himalayan highlands, and the green hillsides covered with wild nettle. Our rugs are born from nature’s own palette, woven with materials that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful. At Knots Rugs, our work begins long before a single knot is tied. It starts in nature, where the finest, most ethical, and sustainable fibers are found. We work with all the different fibers in the world, from Tibetan wool, Chinese silk, wild silk, nettle, hemp, and cactus.
14 May 2025

Tibetan Wool: strength from the Himalayas
The Tibetan wool we offer is sourced from sheep that roam freely across the rugged Himalayan landscape. Living in such harsh conditions, these animals grow a dense fleece, rich in lanolin, that is incredibly durable and soft. The increased lanolin content in this wool provides a natural resistance to staining; liquids don't absorb easily but instead are pushed to the surface, making spills simple to clean. This wool is sourced with care, not mass-produced or framed through industrial methods. The sheep are part of a natural landscape, not confined by it. Their wool is collected seasonally with care, ensuring that it remains gentle on the animals while providing enduring strength in your living spaces.

Silk: Gloss, Texture and Ethics
We use several types of silks, each chosen not only for its beauty but also for its origin. Chinese silk brings a luxurious sheen and is often used to highlight design details and create visual depth. Tasar silk, that comes from wild and is non-farmed Silk moth larvae, which live in the wild and don't breed on mulberry (the most common food for silkworms), make it. Tasar silk is valued for its rich texture and natural, deep-gold color. Muga silk is native to Assam and has a natural golden color and glossy texture. The name Muga in Assamese indicates the amber brown color of the cocoon. Belonging to the same family as Tussar/Tasar silk. Muga silk is obtained from a semi-domesticated silkworm.
Every one of these silks contributes a unique quality to the design, whether it's a shimmer in the light or a subtle grain in the weave. But more importantly, they signify a commitment: no harm, no cruelty.

Natural plant-based materials
In addition to wool and silk, we incorporate vegan, biodegradable materials that are as thoughtful as they are resilient. The Himalayan nettle grows in the wild and is less resource-intensive than cotton, presenting an eco-friendly option with its rich texture. Hemp and Line show their durability and longevity, presenting a matte finish that beautifully shows vibrant design elements. Cactus is a vegan material sourced from the cactus plant. The process involves crushing the leaves and soaking them, allowing the plant fibers to separate and become usable. Afterwards, we manually spin the fibers to produce an exceptionally soft textile. Known for its durability and quality. Lotus yarn, one of our rarest and most delicate fibers, is made from the lotus flower stem. It's completely natural, vegan, and has a unique airy texture. The unique characteristics of each fiber play a vital role in shaping the texture and structure of our rugs. Every fiber is meticulously chosen to align with the overall design while also considering its ethical implications.

Sustainability at every strand. KNOTS RUGS
Sustainability isn’t a side project; it’s embedded in everything we do. The longevity of a product, and especially a handmade product, makes it by definition sustainable. Unlike mass-produced floor coverings, our rugs are meant to last decades, even generations. The company’s principal agreement on extending product life yields a greater environmental impact than any other measures. Biodegradable natural fibers, such as wool, silk, and nettles, age beautifully over time. These products are designed to ensure that microplastics are not released into the environment. They exhibit durability that minimizes the need for replacement over the years. Crafted for durability and intended to be cherished for years to come.
We advance beyond through our collaboration with Label STEP, we guarantee that each rug is crafted in a manner that upholds ethical labor standards. Our commitment to ethical practices ensures that no child labor is involved in our production processes. Equitable compensation. Empowering female artisans in the weaving community, this practice maintains the skill and fosters a sustainable livelihood for the artisans involved.
More Journal Posts
Production
How a Rug gets its Colours
When you’re thinking of a design for a rug, the first thing that might come to your mind is the intricate pattern or overall artwork. But behind the allure of each beautiful rug lies an important and complicated process which often goes unnoticed - the art of selecting colours.
Production
Translating Art into Rugs
At Knots Rugs, the story of each rug goes far beyond the finished product. It starts with an idea, a spark of inspiration and grows into something tangible, something you can feel beneath your feet but also connect on a deeper level. The journey of rug making begins with a design and what makes our story different is our collaborations with different artists, in which we translate their arts into rugs. Creating a living piece of story and art for your homes.
Production
The Craft of Nepalese Carpets
Amid the rise of mass production and machine-made goods, some crafts remain deeply connected to their roots, carrying traditions that span-generations. Nepali hand-knotted carpet is an example of one such treasure - a handwoven masterpiece that tells the story of culture, community and craftsmanship.