Turkish rugs and carpets - Weaving in 21st Century

Research and Development

Within the scope of R&D and design of Turkish rugs and carpets, Sümerhali researches the design, weaving techniques, loom, motifs, color, dye, figures, and materials of Turkish rugs and carpets. As a result of R&D investments, materials and other inputs are supplied with improved technology while preserving their traditional characteristics; computer aided designs, quality control standards and advanced weaving tools are used for precise finishings.

Turkish rugs and carpets look brighter and more charming than ever as a result of substantial changes in blends of fibres and structure of wool yarns, and use of complex metal dye tools.

Selection of raw material (thread), dye and other auxiliary chemical substances used in manufacturing of Turkish rugs, carpets and kilims require compliance with standards of Turkish Standards Institution (T.S.I). New T.S.I standards has been developed for separation, washing, natural and chemical dyeing, and the preparation of weft, warp and loop threads for each type of Turkish rug and carpet.

A regular archiving system for the classic and contemporary motifs has been developed. Sumerhali's rich archive includes more than 3.500 motifs. New motifs found in continuous research are regularly added to the archive. Turkish rug and carpet motif library is an open resource for weavers and researchers.
In addition to T.S.I. standards, further technical specifications for hand made Turkish rugs and carpets have been developed and applied for weaving of Turkish rugs and carpets.
21 types of hand made Turkish rugs and carpets and 3 types of kilims are registered with Turkish Patent Institution based on Geographical Indicators.
Other research and development activities in different areas such as washing, nailing, stretching, placing, drying, shearing and carving of Turkish rugs, carpets and kilims are in progress.

Fleece - Thread

turkish rug carpet fleece wool threading The wool and fleece used in Turkish rugs, carpets and kilims of Sümerhali are sheared wools of different kinds of sheep bred on the steppes of Anatolia; they are high-quality and long-lasting in terms of endurance and flexibility (resilience). These valuable fleeces are manufactured as threads after the fastidious processes in Sumerhali's facilities. Threads are manufactured in accordance with T.S.I. 626 standard.

Weaving Turkish Rugs and Carpets

turkish rug carpet weavers Turkish rug, carpets and kilims of Sumerhali are woven in weaving centers based on the principles and standards established by T.S.I and Sumerhali. The weaving process is done under the supervision of professional teachers and with quality control circles in each stage of practice.

Finishing Operations

Turkish rugs and carpets woven in different regions of Turkey are brought to Sumerhali's central finishing plant in Isparta. After serialization, finishing opeations are applied.

Washing:
Normal Washing - First step of washing is singeing. During singeing operation, pieces of broken warp, weft and loop, and unwanted surplus such as fluffs, thread scraps etc. are singed and removed from the carpets by broom. Later, carpets are turned back and wetted by plenty of water and treated by special washing process.

Chemical Washing - This process is a long and difficult process applied by experienced, and specialized staff. Only specific rugs can pass through chemical washing treatment. The result is pastel colors and lighter tones for dark colors.

Drying:
Squeezing machines are used to remove surplus water. Carpets are dried in designated drying rooms.

Shearing:
Single spiral shearing machines are used in accordance to technical piling thickness of each carpet and rug.

Dust Board:
Dust board is a process to provide rugs and carpets with extra softness and brightness.

Sorting:
Undesired threads and loops with different colors on foundation and figures of the carpets (lice sorting) are sorted by Turkish rug and carpet specialists. Also shaping and shearing the edges, cutting, shaping, and knitting the fringes are applied in this stage.

Streching and nailing:
Carpets and rugs with folds and curls on the edges, folds and inclinations on the foundation are nailed on stretching board.

Carving:
Contours with dark colors and motif edges of rugs and carpets are carved with carving scissors by specialized carvers to highlight the accent and attraction of details.