SHAPE IRREGULARITIES

SHAPE IRREGULARITIES

Rugs should be a fair approximation of a rectangle or square in shape.Some allowance may be tolerated but the carpet must not be disturbingly trapezoidal.The lenght of one edge should preferably not be more than about one to three inches greater than the other edge of the weaving.The width of one end must also not be more than approximately one to three inches greater than the other end of the piece.Usually,the smaller the rug,the less shape imbalance is acceptable.A misshapen carpet may be professionally stretched very slightly.But this must be done by professionally.Otherwise there is always a risk of splitting the foundation.The piece may also eventually revert to its irregular form.Slight curves or small variations in lenght or width are fine,and often add to the quaintness of the piece.More noticeable curves and bumps may be serious flaws depending upon the degree of crookedness or irregularity.Greater curvature is permitted in tribal or village weavings than formal city carpets.