Oriental Rugs Dictionary
Jute
Jute is a natural plant fiber used in textile production, including carpet foundations and backing materials. It is valued for its strength and durability, though it is coarser than wool or cotton. In carpets, jute is often used in the warp or weft structure, particularly in more utilitarian or modern production. Jute is widely used due to its availability and cost-effectiveness. Jute is a bast fiber from the stem of the sisal plant. Jute has been used as a foundation on many old European weaving, or so called Savonnerie carpets. A few very old Chinese rugs have Jute foundation as well as some Indian weaning. As in comparison to cotton and wool, Jute is more susceptible to weakening through alkalis or bleaches. Therefore many wonderful carpets with jute foundations are available in the market that are very fragile and it is recommended to strengthen the foundation by various means.
