A critical yet often overlooked aspect of these beautiful pieces is the selvage, or the self-edge, of the rug. Understanding the function and importance of selvages is essential for anyone looking to buy, maintain, or restore a handmade rug, especially in a city like San Diego, where the environment can add specific challenges to rug care.
Selvage, derived from the term “self-edge,” refers to the finished edges along the sides of a handmade rug. These edges are not just there for aesthetic appeal; they serve a vital purpose in keeping the fabric from unraveling. When it comes to handmade rugs, the selvage is a key indicator of the rug’s authenticity and durability.
Different types of rugs feature varying selvage styles. For instance, an oriental handmade rug typically has two selvages along the longer sides, while Navajo rugs feature selvages on all four edges. The primary function of the selvage is to reinforce the rug’s structure, ensuring the fabric remains intact even with regular use. These wrapped edges run perpendicular to the fringed ends, providing both protection and durability.
Selvages are typically made from the same material as the rug itself—whether cotton, silk, wool, or even animal hair. In many cases, the selvage is overcast with decorative yarn to enhance its appearance and provide additional protection against wear. Some rug weaving traditions, especially in more complex designs, employ supplementary selvage structures to boost both the aesthetic appeal and the durability of the rug sides.
However, these edges are often the first to show signs of wear due to foot traffic, vacuuming, and even exposure to San Diego’s coastal elements. This wear makes the selvage, and consequently the rug, vulnerable to damage. As a result, regular inspection and maintenance of the selvage are crucial to extending the life of your handmade rug.
Not all handmade rugs retain their original selvages once they come off the loom. In many cases, rug weavers may cut off the original selvages, particularly when the rug’s edges have come off the loom crooked. This is common in Indian and Pakistani rugs, where a straight edge is often preferred for export markets. However, this practice is less common in rugs from Iran, and rarely seen in Turkish and Chinese rugs.
Once the edges are straightened, new selvages are wrapped along the sides using yarn. While this process makes the rug more visually appealing, the cut edges lack the structural durability of the original woven selvages. Over time, as the selvage wrapping wears away due to foot traffic and cleaning, the rug’s foundation becomes increasingly vulnerable to unraveling and damage.
One of the hallmarks of an elegant handmade rug is the way its fringe is constructed. In a hand-knotted rug, the fringe is a direct continuation of the warp yarns, which form the chassis of the rug. These tassels are not just decorative—they are an integral part of the rug’s structure, locking the knots in place and preventing the rug from unraveling.
When examining a rug, especially if you’re considering a purchase or need a repair, pay close attention to the fringe and selvages. The presence of a kilim—a flat-woven portion at the rug’s ends—between the tassels and the main body of the rug can further enhance its stability. This kilim is not always visible from the front, but it plays a critical role in maintaining the rug’s integrity.
As a San Diego rug owner, it’s crucial to regularly inspect your handmade rugs for signs of wear, particularly along the selvages and fringes. If you notice that the kilim or fringe is starting to fray or come apart, it’s imperative to seek repair services promptly to prevent more costly damage down the line.
Simple repair techniques, such as covering worn selvages with new yarn, can be effective in extending the life of your rug. However, more complex rugs, like Navajo designs with intricate multi-cord selvages, may require professional re-weaving to restore their original condition.
Additionally, when cleaning your rugs, avoid using strong detergents or carpet cleaners, as these can weaken the fibers and lead to long-term damage. Instead, consider professional oriental rug cleaning and repair services in San Diego, which specialize in handling these delicate and valuable pieces with the care they deserve.
Handmade rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are works of art that require proper care and attention to preserve their beauty and functionality. The selvage plays a crucial role in the rug’s overall structure, and understanding its importance is key to maintaining the integrity of your rug. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new rug owner in San Diego, paying attention to the selvages can make all the difference in preserving your investment for years to come.
If you need professional care for your oriental rugs or require expert advice on maintaining your handmade rug in San Diego, don’t hesitate to reach out. With decades of experience, I’m here to help ensure your rugs remain as stunning and durable as the day they were woven.
