A brief history of carpet

Being in commercial flooring, we have installed a large range of stylish, modern choices for our clients. Carpet, in all its many varieties, is an undisputed favourite when it comes to commercial or residential flooring. Have you ever wondered when carpet was invented? There’s a long, impressive history behind the product that we know and love today. For thousands of years, carpet has served as a barrier to the cold, and a comfort to those who walk, sit and even sleep on it.

There is evidence dating back as far as 7,000 BC, suggesting that the wool of sheep and goats was sheared, spun and woven into carpet. The earliest surviving carpet is a richly coloured, square tufted Armenian double-knot woven piece, known as the ‘Pazyryk’, which dates back to the 5th -4th century BC. It was discovered in 1960, in an ice-filled tomb in Mongolia.

Improvements in weaving over the centuries saw an evolution in design, and more elaborate patterns began to be produced. However, at this point in time, only the wealthy were able to adorn their homes with beautiful carpets and rugs.

Whilst carpet weaving became a popular practice throughout the world, each ethnic group produced work that distinguished their carpet from other cultures. In most countries, carpets were frequently used for barter, for the payment of other goods and services.

As for our own history with carpet, the weaving technology that brought about knotted pile carpet first came to England in the early 16th Century. The first UK carpet factory was built in Wilton in 1655. A well-known, and still commonly used carpet, Axminster, originated in Devon, England in 1755.

In France, the heavy purchase of Middle Eastern rugs actually impacted the French economy so heavily that King Henry IV had to step in and interfere with the carpet industry himself. He started a carpet factory in the palace at the Louvre to create masterpieces for the market, keeping the profits in France.

In 2019, we have an amazing range of carpet styles, weaves, colours and patterns to choose from. Carpet production is no longer limited to shearing goats and sheep either, as weaving now includes synthetic materials and natural fibres. Technological developments in weaving and dyeing methods have also increased the options when it comes to pattern, colour and texture. It is no surprise that carpet is now one of the most common flooring choices for homes and commercial premises alike.

We love the variety now on the market for our commercial clients. It’s fascinating to look back on, and understand the history and evolution of carpet. At Bass Floor Newcastle, we know that understanding contemporary production methods is important for high-quality installation. If you’re needing new carpet for an upcoming project, call our friendly team for a free quote on 4951 6166.