Colour Bleeding in Handwoven Rugs
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It’s more than a nuisance. Colour bleeding can ruin years of craftsmanship and significantly reduce the value of your cherished piece. If you’re a fan of traditional textiles, understanding how and why this happens is crucial. Let’s break it down and help you keep your rug looking gorgeous. Non Colourfast Dyes Factor Many handwoven rugs, especially those crafted using traditional techniques, rely on natural dyes. These dyes aren’t always fixed properly, making them vulnerable to moisture. Reds and blues are often the most problematic. You might love the richness of a crimson border or a deep indigo centre—but those same tones are the most likely to bleed. Think of it like wearing new jeans on a rainy day. You didn’t realise the dye wasn’t set until your legs turned blue. The same principle applies here. So, if your rug hasn’t been pre-treated or you’re unsure of its dye stability, treat it with care. One spill could send colours seeping into each other. Excess Dye Can Backf...