Frequently asked questions about our carpets

General information

How do I recognize a hand-knotted carpet?

A hand-knotted rug differs significantly from machine-made pieces—in quality, character, and detail. It is the result of patient craftsmanship, with each knot tied individually.

How to recognize a hand-knotted carpet:

  • The most important feature is the back: The pattern structure is clearly visible on the back – mirrored and slightly irregular. This is a typical sign of handcrafting. If a textile layer or adhesive is applied to the back, it is usually not a hand-knotted, but a tufted rug.
  • Irregularities: Small irregularities in the pattern or knot pattern are not a flaw, but rather an expression of craftsmanship – they make each carpet unique.
  • Knot density: High-quality, hand-knotted rugs often have a fine knot density, which allows for precise patterns and long-lasting quality.
  • Knots : Individual yarns cannot be pulled out of the rug; they are tightly knotted. Upon close inspection, a knot is visible. If a yarn can be removed from the rug, it is usually a machine-made or so-called "handloom" rug.
Which carpet size is right?

The size of the rug has a significant impact on the overall effect of the room—it can define areas, highlight furniture, or visually structure the space. To determine the right size, we recommend first placing the furniture where it will be placed. Then mark the desired area of ​​the rug with masking tape or newspaper—this creates a realistic impression of proportion and effect.

To help you choose the right rug, we offer you the opportunity to borrow selected rugs in their original size to try out. This allows you to experience the material, color, and size directly in your room—under realistic lighting conditions and in harmony with your existing furnishings. We would be happy to advise you individually on your selection.

Can I design my carpet according to my own wishes?

At Designercarpets Drechsle, your individual wishes are our focus. We specialize in the development of unique pieces.

Through personal communication and collaborative development, we create exceptional rugs tailored precisely to your needs. We passionately guide you through every step – from size and material selection to technology, design, and color.

The result is a handcrafted rug that reflects your unique vision as well as our commitment to the highest craftsmanship and quality. The rug thus becomes part of your very own personal interior design concept – without compromise.

How do I find out which material is right for me?

The selection of materials is an essential part of our collaborative design. It not only determines the look and feel, but also shapes the impact of the room and the longevity of the rug.

Every material tells its own story – through structure, shine, robustness, or subtle nuances. We provide you with personal and individual advice to find the right fiber for your project.

Here is an overview of the materials we work with:

  • Wool: A classic with natural warmth and resilience. Wool is durable, dirt-resistant, and climate-regulating—ideal for high-traffic living areas.
  • Silk: Refined elegance with a subtle sheen. Silk allows for the utmost precision in patterning and brings light into the room. Soft, powerful in expression, and durable.
  • Nettle: Restrained, natural, and structured. Nettle lends the rug a calm structure and softness, making it ideal for minimalist, clean-lined interiors.
  • Linen: Finely woven with a cool character, linen impresses with its natural texture and sober, modern appeal.
  • Hemp: Robust, sustainable, and authentic. Hemp offers a non-slip, organic surface—an ideal choice for natural yarn lovers.
  • Sunpat: A coarse plant fiber with an authentic character. Sunpat stands for structure and authentic craftsmanship—a deliberately applied textile rawness.
  • Viscose: Silky sheen, modern lightness. Viscose reflects light delicately and softly, lending itself to elegant interior design and creating subtle accents—with a surprising feel.
  • Blended fabrics: Multifaceted and individually combinable. Combining different fibers—such as wool with silk or linen with viscose—creates textile compositions with a unique balance. Blended fabrics enable the perfect combination of functionality, expression, and structure—tailored to your needs.
Can handmade rugs be used with underfloor heating?

Yes – our hand-knotted and woven rugs can be used on underfloor heating without any problems. The decisive factor is not the material, but the backing of the rug. Unlike tufted rugs, hand-knotted rugs consist only of knotted yarn, which doesn't trap heat. Textile or glued backings pose a risk of heat buildup.

Natural materials such as wool, linen or hemp are well suited because they allow heat to pass through but at the same time have a regulating effect.

In addition to the carpet, the right anti-slip underlay for heated floors must also be chosen.

What does knot density mean and why is it important?

The knot density indicates how many knots per square meter (or inch) are used in a handmade rug. It is a measure of the fineness and depth of detail of the workmanship – comparable to the resolution of a picture.

The higher the density, the more precisely intricate patterns and color gradients can be realized. At the same time, a high knot density significantly increases the amount of material used and the amount of work required—it is a testament to craftsmanship and patience.

However, higher density doesn't automatically mean higher quality. Rather, the ideal knotting density depends on the desired design, the choice of material, and the intended use. A coarse, textured rug made of hemp or nettle thrives on its open, honest surface, whereas a silky-fine tapestry requires the highest density.

We're happy to advise you on choosing the right knot density for your project – tailored to function, design, and feel. This affects not only the appearance, but also the weight, durability, and overall feel of the rug.

Why does my carpet pill?

A pilling carpet is not a sign of poor quality, but often a natural process in handmade rugs made of natural fibers. In the first few weeks, pilling occurs – this is the loosening of short fibers that were not fully fixed during weaving or knotting.

This loss of lint is temporary and will diminish over time if the carpet is regularly cared for and vacuumed. Wearing slippers with rubber soles can increase linting due to abrasion.

How are the carpets made?

Production takes place primarily in Kathmandu, Nepal, where centuries-old craftsmanship meets the highest quality standards.

Family-run, socially responsible factories create unique carpets whose production is far more than just production: they combine design, craftsmanship, and sustainable values.

Click here for the process

What can I do if the carpet slips?

A slippery carpet can be not only annoying but also dangerous—especially on smooth floors like parquet or tiles. To prevent this, we recommend using a high-quality anti-slip underlay that's precisely tailored to the size and material of your carpet.

This ensures a secure hold, protects the floor, and promotes the longevity of the rug by preventing movement and wrinkling. It's important to choose a high-quality underlay, as unsuitable underlays can leave residue on the floor over time.

We'd be happy to advise you on selecting the right underlay – tailored to your flooring, carpet type, and room climate. Upon request, we can also supply it pre-cut.

How long does a hand-knotted or woven carpet last?

A high-quality hand-knotted or woven rug is designed for use. With proper care, it will last a lifetime, even for generations. The key factors are material quality, craftsmanship, use, and care.

Regular care, such as gentle vacuuming, protection from moisture and insect infestation, and professional cleaning if necessary, will preserve the texture and keep the colors vibrant. Occasionally rotating the rug also ensures even wear.

More about carpet care

What are the advantages of hand-knotted carpets?

A hand-knotted rug is far more than a floor covering—it is an expression of craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless quality. Each knot is individually tied by hand—with patience, precision, and an understanding of the material and design.

The most important advantages at a glance:

  • Uniqueness: Each rug is unique – individually designed and manufactured, and, if desired, precisely tailored to the room, color, and use.
  • Durability: High-quality materials and precise craftsmanship make hand-knotted carpets extremely durable – they often last a lifetime.
  • Design freedom: Formats, colors, patterns and materials can be combined in almost unlimited ways.
  • Feel & Look: The fine structure, the depth of the pile and the naturalness of the materials give hand-knotted carpets a special charisma.
  • Sustainability: The use of natural materials has a positive impact on the indoor climate. Production according to socially acceptable standards is an important economic driver in the producing countries and secures numerous jobs.
  • Lifelong companions: Handmade rugs are easy to repair and wash. Request a quote
Is a hand-knotted or woven rug suitable for households with pets?

Handmade rugs are suitable for households with pets due to their high-quality materials and robust workmanship.

How should I properly store my rug when I'm not using it?

If you're not using your rug temporarily, we recommend storing it carefully to preserve its material, color, and shape. Here's the best way to proceed:

Cleaning: Have the carpet thoroughly cleaned before storing it – ideally by a professional.

Roll instead of fold: Roll the carpet loosely – with the pile side facing inwards – to avoid creases.

Protective material: Wrap the rug in a breathable material such as cotton cloth or unbleached linen. Avoid plastic, please—it can trap moisture and damage the material.

Store in a dry and dark place: Store the carpet in a dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.

Protect from pests: Wrap moth paper or newspaper to protect the carpet from pests.

Check regularly: Check the carpet every few months for moisture, pressure marks, or pest infestation.

Can I hang the rugs on the wall?

Yes – many of our handmade rugs are also ideal for wall decoration. Graphic designs, flat-woven kilims, and silk rugs, in particular, unfold their full expressiveness vertically, transforming them into textile works of art in the room.

Advantages of wall mounting:

Showcase patterns and colors at eye level

Ideal for acoustic dampening in large rooms

A stylish alternative to classic wall art like in this restaurant

The rug can be attached to the wall with nails, a nail strip, or sewn-in tunnel tape. Please contact us directly for details.

projects

Which color systems can be used?

At Designercarpets Drechsle, there are virtually no limits to color design. Together with our customers and design partners, we develop customized color combinations.

Our customers choose from a wide range of over 300 shades. Our experienced master dyers blend each yarn by hand to precisely achieve the desired color.

For precise color matching, we work with common color standards such as NCS and Pantone, or we receive a textile sample for coordination. Upon request, we can also produce a knotting sample so you can check the colors and quality in advance.

What certifications are available?
  • Fair Trade Label Step
  • Fire certificates on request
Are hand-knotted carpets suitable for public spaces?

Yes, hand-knotted carpets from Designercarpets Drechsle are ideal for public spaces thanks to their high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Whether hotels, restaurants, offices, or exclusive showrooms – our carpets combine durability with exclusive design.

Each carpet is individually manufactured according to the requirements of its specific location. This allows materials, knot density, and technology to be optimally tailored to the intended use, ensuring longevity and high levels of comfort, even in high-traffic areas.

To the projects

What are the minimum and maximum dimensions for custom-made items?

Designercarpets Drechsle produces hand-knotted carpets individually according to your wishes – in shape, size and design.

There are no specific minimum or maximum dimensions, as the options are flexible and project-dependent. Generally, a maximum width of 10 meters applies, and there is no limit on length.

For special requirements and unusual sizes, we would be happy to advise you personally.

What conditions apply to interior designers?

Designercarpets Drechslehat specializes in collaborating with interior designers, planners, and design studios worldwide.

We offer customized terms, project-specific advice, and personal support – from the initial idea to the final implementation. We are also happy to provide you with material samples, color poms, or simulations to best support your designs.

Please contact us directly for a personal discussion. We look forward to learning more about your projects.

As an interior designer, can I implement my own ideas and designs?

Yes, absolutely. Designercarpets Drechsle has been working closely with interior designers, designers, and artists for many years.

We view carpets as a design element in a room – and we implement your ideas precisely. Whether it's your own design, defined color concepts, special formats, or specialized materials: Together we develop a tailor-made concept and create a digital simulation of your design.

Our factories carefully handcraft each carpet – precisely tailored to your plans and design requirements.

How is the shape of the carpet precisely defined?

Whether rectangular, round, organic or freely designed – at Designercarpets Drechsle almost all shapes are possible.

Using sketches, architectural plans, or measurements, we create a digital simulation that precisely visualizes the shape, size, and design. We can create this using a hand-drawn drawing, a digital drawing, or a template.

We would be happy to advise you on technical options, shape details and edge solutions.

Cleaning and care

Are hand-knotted rugs washable?

Hand-knotted rugs are valuable, unique pieces that require special care. Machine washing is not suitable, as it can damage the fibers, colors, and texture.

Instead, we recommend professional carpet cleaning by specialized companies that work carefully and professionally. Regular vacuuming and prompt stain removal will help extend the lifespan of your carpet.

For minor stains, we will be happy to advise you on suitable care products and methods to ensure your carpet retains its beauty in the long term.

For carpet care

Do you offer carpet cleaning and restoration?

We offer professional carpet cleaning and restoration.

You can drop off your carpet directly with us or request our pickup and delivery service.

We would also be happy to advise you on recommended cleaning intervals and optimal care.

To the inquiry

How do I get pressure marks out of my carpet?

Pressure marks often result from heavy furniture sitting on the carpet for extended periods. This won't damage the handmade carpet. Here's how to gently remove pressure marks:

  • Reduce weight: Temporarily move furniture or place felt pads under the legs to prevent pressure marks in the future. Pressure marks usually disappear after a few weeks, and the pile will return to its original shape.
  • Damp cloths: Place a damp (not wet) cloth over the indentation and iron it with a warm (not hot) iron—always using a protective fabric between the cloth and the iron. The moisture and warmth will help regenerate the fibers.
  • Setting up by hand: You can easily set up the fibers with your finger
  • Carpet cleaning: stubborn pressure marks are removed by washing. The pile throughout the carpet is restored. Request a quote

Trust in quality for 3 generations

100% customizable
Fair-trade certified
Handmade designer carpets
Personal advice