Hand-woven rugs are among the most exquisite products of a centuries-old art. Requiring meticulous care and effort at every stage of the weaving process, these rugs are distinguished not only by the materials and patterns used, but also by their finishing. One of these processes, "trimming," also known as "shave," gives the rug a more elegant and refined appearance.
What is Shaving?
Trimming is a finishing process performed after the carpet is finished weaving. During this process, excess threads or roughness on the carpet's surface are trimmed and removed. This process makes the carpet's patterns and details more distinct and gives it a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing appearance overall. Carpet makers pay great attention to the pattern's proportions and details during the trimming process, preserving the carpet's overall texture.
Why is shaving done?
There are several important reasons for the shearing process on hand-woven carpets:
1. Clarification of Patterns:
Excess threads on the rug may have accumulated over time during weaving. When these excess threads are trimmed, the rug's pattern becomes clearer and more distinct. Especially in rugs with intricate patterns, trimming allows color transitions and details to be more clearly revealed.
2. A Smooth Surface:
After the weaving process is complete, the surface of the rug may be slightly uneven. Trimming smooths out this uneven surface, creating a smoother appearance. The rug achieves a more uniform and balanced structure.
3. Adding Elegance to Your Carpet:
The trimming process not only highlights the patterns but also gives the rug an elegant appearance. The fibers are straightened, creating a more sophisticated structure. This final step gives the rug a finished, flawless appearance.
How to Shave?
Carpet shearing can be done by hand or machine. For traditional hand-woven carpets, this process is typically performed by hand. The craftsman carefully trims the excess threads from the surface of the carpet using a shearing knife or special scissors. Every knot and detail is meticulously preserved, and the excess threads are then removed.
With modern technology, some carpet manufacturers can use machines to trim the carpet faster and easier. However, for handmade carpets, hand trimming is crucial to preserving the carpet's character and originality.
A Final Touch to the Carpet
The shaving process affects not only the carpet's texture but also its lifespan. A shaved carpet lasts longer and is easier to clean in daily use. This process allows the carpet's fibers to become more tightly packed, resulting in a smoother surface. 
Trimming Adds Value to the Carpet
Trimming a rug is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Trimming ensures a rug is flawless, both visually and tactilely. This process not only adds beauty to the rug but also enhances the value of the craftsmanship. A trimmed rug reaches its final form in the hands of the maker, adding both artistry and elegance to any living space.
An Art from Tradition to the Future
Hand-woven rugs have always been a testament to the art and craftsmanship of the craft. The shearing process is an essential part of this art. While machine-made rugs are rapidly becoming more common today, the quality and finesse of handmade rugs, thanks to these finishing touches made using traditional methods, continues to stand out.
