The journey from loom to living room involves critical finishing steps that determine a rug's final appearance and hand. These processes require expertise equal to the weaving itself.
Washing
Initial washing removes dirt, excess dye, and sizing while softening the wool. The water temperature, duration, and agitation all affect the final result.
Stretching and Drying
Rugs are stretched to precise dimensions while drying, ensuring straight edges and consistent sizing. This step prevents distortion and maintains pattern integrity.
Shearing
Master shearers trim the pile to uniform height, enhancing pattern definition. Some designs feature sculptured shearing at multiple heights for dimensional effect.
Final Inspection
Every Eastern Mills rug undergoes rigorous quality inspection before shipping, checking for consistent pile, color accuracy, and structural integrity.
