Primary backing
The backing that is attached to the rug before the pile is added.
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A variation in color or texture that occurs naturally in yarn or fabric.
A synthetic yarn made from acrylic fibers. Acrylic yarn is often used in rug tufting because it is durable and affordable.
A treatment applied to rugs to reduce the amount of static electricity that they generate. Static electricity can attract dust and dirt to rugs, so anti-static treatment can help to keep rugs clean.
A rug that is small enough to fit in a specific area, such as a living room or bedroom. Area rugs are often made from tufted wool or polypropylene.
A knot that is not symmetrical, meaning that the two yarn ends do not come out of the same hole in the backing fabric. Asymmetrical knots are often used in oriental rugs to create a more complex pattern.
A type of carpet weaving machine that produces a high-quality, patterned carpet. Axminster carpets are often used in commercial settings because they are durable and easy to clean.
A type of fabric weave that is characterized by a checkerboard pattern. Basket weave is often used in rugs because it is strong and durable.
A method of dyeing yarn or fabric in large batches. Batch dyeing is often used in rug tufting because it is a more efficient way to dye yarn.
A bar that is used to beat the pile of a rug to make it smooth and even. Beater bars are often made from wood or metal.
A type of rug that is made from a type of wool called berber. Berber carpets are often characterized by their short, tightly-woven pile.
A decorative edging that is sewn around the edge of a rug. Binding can be made from a variety of materials, such as leather, fabric, or yarn.
The process of combining two or more different fibers to create a new yarn. Blending is often used in rug tufting to create yarns with specific properties, such as softness or durability.
The process of stretching and shaping a rug after it has been tufted. Blocking helps to ensure that the rug is flat and even.
A small, cylindrical device that is used to hold yarn. Bobbins are used in rug tufting to feed yarn through the tufting gun.
A decorative edging that is added to the edge of a rug. Borders can be made from a variety of materials, such as yarn, leather, or fabric.
A type of carpet that is woven on a wide loom. Broadloom carpets are often used in commercial settings because they are large and durable.
A strong, woven fabric that is often used as the backing for rugs. Canvas is made from cotton or linen fibers.
A small insect that can damage rugs. Carpet beetles are attracted to the natural fibers in rugs, such as wool and silk.
A protective covering that is placed over a rug to protect it from dust and dirt. Carpet bonnets are often made from fabric or plastic.
A tool used to cut carpets. Carpet cutters can be manual or electric.
A machine that is used to remove dirt and debris from carpets. Carpet extractors can be rented or purchased.
A sharp knife that is used to cut carpets. Carpet knives can be manual or electric.
A factory where carpets are made. Carpet mills can be large or small.
A layer of material that is placed under a carpet to protect the floor and provide cushioning. Carpet pads can be made from a variety of materials, such as foam, rubber, or felt.
A layer of material that is placed under a carpet to provide cushioning. Carpet padding can be made from a variety of materials, such as foam, rubber, or felt.
A tool used to smooth out the pile of a carpet. Carpet rakes can be manual or electric.
A tool used to stretch a carpet to its correct dimensions. Carpet stretchers can be manual or electric.
A small, pointed nail that is used to secure a carpet to the floor. Carpet tacks can be made from a variety of materials, such as copper or steel.
A small, square carpet that can be easily installed and removed. Carpet tiles are often used in commercial settings because they are easy to clean and maintain.
A type of yarn that is made from twisted fibers. Chenille yarn is often used in rugs because it is soft and luxurious.
A rug that is made from the fibers of coconut husks. Coir rugs are often durable and water-resistant.
The ability of a fabric or yarn to retain its color when exposed to light, water, or chemicals. Colorfastness is important for rugs because it helps to prevent the rug from fading or discoloring.
A method of dyeing yarn or fabric in a continuous process. Continuous dyeing is often used in rug tufting because it is a more efficient way to dye yarn.
Metal brackets that are used to secure the corners of a carpet to the floor. Corner brackets can be made from a variety of materials, such as brass or steel.
The ability of a fabric or yarn to resist being crushed or flattened. Crush resistance is important for rugs because it helps to prevent the rug from becoming flat and worn.
A type of carpet pile that is made up of both cut and looped fibers. Cut and loop pile carpets are often soft and comfortable to walk on.
A type of carpet pile that is made up of cut fibers. Cut pile carpets are often durable and easy to clean.
A type of carpet pile that is made up of both cut and looped fibers. Cut-loop carpets are often soft and comfortable to walk on.
A needle that is used to mend or repair holes in fabrics. Darning needles can be made from a variety of materials, such as steel or bamboo.
A rug that has been intentionally damaged or worn to give it a worn-in look. Distressed rugs are often popular because they add character and personality to a space.
A type of rug weaving in which each knot is tied twice. Double knotted rugs are often more durable and expensive than single knotted rugs.
A tool used to spin yarn. Drop spindles can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood or metal.
A machine that is used to card wool or other fibers. Drum carders can be manual or electric.
A machine that is used to weave carpets. Drum machines can be large or small.
A substance that is used to clean carpets. Dry compounds can be purchased or made at home.
A type of rug that is made from hand-woven wool. Durries are often characterized by their simple patterns and bold colors.
A group of yarn or fabric that has been dyed using the same dye bath. Dye lots are important for rugs because they help to ensure that the rug will be the same color throughout.
A decorative roll that is attached to the edge of a rug. Edge rolls can be made from a variety of materials, such as fabric or leather.
A process of coating a rug with a protective layer to prevent fading and staining.
The ability of a rug to resist fading when exposed to light.
The speed at which yarn is fed through the tufting gun.
A combination of two or more different fibers.
The main body of a rug.
The process of adding a protective finish to a rug.
A type of rug that is woven with a flat, even surface.
A method of cleaning carpets using foam.
The backing of a rug.
The decorative edging of a rug.
The process of repairing a damaged fringe.
A process of bonding two pieces of fabric together using heat and pressure.
A type of hand-knotted rug that is made in Iran.
The number of knots per inch in a rug.
A tool used to card wool or other fibers.
A type of rug weaving in which each knot is tied by hand.
A type of rug weaving in which yarn is tufted into a backing fabric using a tufting gun.
A type of rug weaving in which the warp and weft threads are passed through the backing fabric by hand.
A loom that is operated by hand.
Yarn that has been spun by hand.
A type of rug that is made by hooking yarn into a backing fabric.
A natural dye that is used to dye yarn and fabric.
A type of loom that uses a jacquard mechanism to control the pattern of the weave.
A rug that is made from jute fibers.
A measure of the knot density of a rug.
A type of flatweave rug that is often characterized by its geometric patterns.
The number of knots per square inch in a rug.
The individual loops of yarn that are used to make a rug.
A type of rug making in which yarn is hooked into a backing fabric using a latch hook tool.
A type of backing material that is made from latex.
A type of rug pile that is made up of loops of yarn.
A loom that is operated by machine.
Yarn that has been spun by machine.
A natural dye that is used to dye yarn and fabric.
A central design element in a rug.
The ability of a rug to resist mildew growth.
A type of fabric that is often used as the backing for rugs.
A treatment that is applied to rugs to protect them from moths.
A repeated design element in a rug.
A dye that is made from natural materials, such as plants or insects.
A layer of material that is placed under a rug to prevent it from slipping.
A synthetic yarn that is often used in rugs because it is durable and easy to care for.
A sewing stitch that is used to secure the edges of a rug.
A process of dyeing yarn or fabric after it has been woven or knitted.
A sewing stitch that is used to finish the edges of a rug.
A type of knot that is used in hand-knotted rugs.
The top layer of a rug that is made up of loops of yarn.
The number of loops per square inch in a rug.
The length of the loops in a rug.
A tool that is used to raise the loops in a rug.
A process of reversing the direction of the loops in a rug.
The yarn that is used to make the pile of a rug.
The number of strands that are twisted together to form a yarn.
A synthetic yarn that is often used in rugs because it is durable and easy to care for.
A type of rug weaving that is done using a machine.
The backing that is attached to the rug before the pile is added.
A tool that is used to create rugs by punching yarn through a fabric backing.
A tool that is used to clean rugs by rotating a brush head over the surface of the rug.
The different parts of a rug, such as the pile, backing, and foundation.
The process of beating a rug to remove dust and dirt.
A small insect that can damage rugs.
A brush that is used to clean rugs.
A tool that is used to remove loose fibers from rugs.
A store that sells rugs.
A tool that is used to hold a rug in place while it is being cleaned or repaired.
A tool that is used to tuft rugs.
A person who tufts rugs.
The process of creating rugs by tufting yarn into a backing fabric.
A layer of material that is placed under a rug to protect the floor and provide cushioning.
The design of a rug.
A tool that is used to punch holes in a fabric backing for rug hooking.
A tool that is used to smooth out the pile of a rug.
The process of fixing a damaged rug.
The process of rotating a rug to prevent it from becoming flat and worn.
A solution that is used to clean rugs.
A type of rug that is made by weaving yarn into a backing fabric.
The threads that are stretched across the loom before the rug is woven.
The weight of a rug, measured in ounces per square yard.
A narrow rug that is often used in hallways or entryways.
A rug made from seagrass fibers. Seagrass rugs are often durable and water-resistant.
A substance that is used to seal seams in rugs. Seam sealers help to prevent rugs from fraying or unraveling.
A tape that is used to reinforce seams in rugs. Seam tape helps to prevent rugs from fraying or unraveling.
A weight that is used to weigh down seams in rugs. Seam weights help to prevent rugs from fraying or unraveling.
An iron that is used to seal seams in rugs. Seaming irons help to prevent rugs from fraying or unraveling.
The backing that is attached to the rug after the pile is added.
The finished edge of a rug. Selvage edges are often reinforced to prevent fraying or unraveling.
The edge of a piece of fabric that has been woven with the warp and weft threads running in the same direction. Selvedges help to prevent fabric from fraying or unraveling.
A type of sewing stitch that is used to finish the edges of a rug. Serge stitches are strong and prevent the rug from fraying.
The process of creating a gradual change in color in a rug. Shading is often used to create a more natural look in rugs.
A tool that is used to cut fabric or yarn. Shears come in a variety of sizes and are used for different purposes.
The process of loose fibers coming out of a rug. Shedding is common in new rugs and usually stops after a few weeks.
A rug made from sisal fibers. Sisal rugs are often durable and low-maintenance.
A backing that is used to prevent rugs from slipping. Slip-resistant backings are often made from rubber or felt.
A small tear or hole in a rug. Snags can be caused by sharp objects or rough handling.
A type of weaving that is characterized by its diagonal lines. Soumak weave rugs are often strong and durable.
The distance between the rows of knots in a rug. The spacing of the knots affects the appearance and texture of the rug.
A weighted disc that is attached to the end of a spindle. Spindle whorls help to keep the spindle from rotating too quickly.
The process of twisting fibers together to form yarn. Spinning is a traditional method of making yarn.
A method of cleaning rugs by removing stains or dirt from specific areas. Spot cleaning is often used to clean rugs that have been lightly soiled.
A method of cleaning rugs by spraying them with a solution of water and detergent. Spray extraction is often used to clean rugs that have been heavily soiled.
The process of new growth emerging from a plant. Sprouting is often used to describe the growth of new fibers in a rug.
The ability of a rug to resist staining. Stain-resistant rugs are often treated with a special solution to make them more resistant to stains.
A rug that is designed to be placed on stairs. Stair runners are often narrow and long.
A method of cleaning rugs by using steam to loosen dirt and stains. Steaming is often used to clean rugs that are made from delicate fibers.
A technique of applying paint, ink, or other medium to a surface through a stencil. Stenciling is often used to create patterns on rugs.
A type of rug weaving that is characterized by its diagonal lines. Sumak weave rugs are often strong and durable.
A type of knot that is tied in such a way that the two ends of the yarn come out of the same hole in the backing fabric. Symmetrical knots are often used in oriental rugs.
A dye that is made from synthetic materials. Synthetic dyes are often less expensive than natural dyes.
A strip of material that is used to hold a rug in place. Tackless strips are often made from felt or rubber.
A type of binding that is used to finish the edges of a rug. Tape binding is often made from fabric or leather.
Loops of yarn that are attached to the ends of a rug. Tassels are often used as a decorative element.
A process of cleaning rugs using tea. Tea washes can help to brighten the colors of a rug and make it look more antique.
The amount of pressure that is applied to the yarn when it is tufted into a rug. The tension of the yarn affects the appearance and texture of the rug.
A system of grading yarns based on their thickness. Tex grade yarns are often used in rugs because they are durable and easy to work with.
A small rug that is often used as a decorative accent. Throw rugs can be made from a variety of materials, including wool, silk, and synthetic fibers.
A strip of material that is used to join two different rugs together. Transition strips are often made from felt or rubber.
A type of binding that is used to finish the edges of a rug. Tuft bind is often made from yarn.
A process of creating rugs by inserting yarn into a backing fabric using a tufting gun. Tufting is a popular way to make rugs because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to learn.
A type of fabric that is used as the backing for rugs that are tufted. Tufting cloths are often made from cotton or linen fibers.
A frame that is used to hold the backing fabric and yarn in place while a rug is being tufted. Tufting frames come in a variety of sizes and styles.
A tool that is used to insert yarn into a backing fabric to create rugs. Tufting guns come in a variety of sizes and styles.
The part of a tufting gun that inserts the yarn into the backing fabric. Tufting loopers come in a variety of sizes and styles.
A type of knot that is used in hand-knotted rugs. Turkish knots are often used to create intricate patterns.
A type of weaving that is characterized by its diagonal lines. Twill weave rugs are often strong and durable.
A yarn that has been twisted together to form a thicker and stronger yarn. Twisted yarns are often used in rugs because they are durable and easy to work with.
A layer of material that is placed under a rug to protect the floor and provide cushioning. Underlays are often made from foam, rubber, or felt.
The threads that are stretched across the loom before the rug is woven. Warp threads are often made from cotton or linen fibers.
A thread that is used to create the vertical lines in a rug. Warp threads are often made from cotton or linen fibers.
The top layer of a rug that is made from the pile yarn. The wear layer is often the most visible part of the rug and is subject to the most wear and tear.
The threads that are woven under and over the warp threads to create the rug. Weft threads are often made from cotton or linen fibers.
A decorative stitch that is used to secure the ends of the yarn in a rug. Whipping can be done by hand or by machine.
A type of rug that is made using a power loom. Wilton rugs are often durable and easy to care for.
A yarn that is made from wool fibers. Wool yarns are often used in rugs because they are durable and comfortable to walk on.
The appearance of a rug that has been used and worn over time. Worn patina is often seen as a sign of quality and authenticity in rugs.
A type of yarn that is made from wool fibers that have been combed and spun in a specific way. Worsted yarns are often used in rugs because they are durable and smooth.
A thread made by spinning fibers together. Yarn is used to make rugs, clothing, and other textiles.
A measure of the thickness of yarn. Yarn count is determined by the weight of a certain length of yarn.
A device that is used to feed yarn into a tufting gun. Yarn feeders come in a variety of sizes and styles.
The number of strands of yarn that are twisted together to form a single yarn. Yarn plies affect the thickness and strength of the yarn.
A device that is used to spin yarn. Yarn spindles come in a variety of sizes and styles.
The amount of twist that is applied to yarn. Yarn twist affects the strength and luster of the yarn.
A measure of the weight of yarn per unit length. Yarn weight is determined by the thickness of the yarn and the length of the yarn.
