KPSI. When it comes to rugs, many believe it’s all about KPSI. But if you’re new to the Wonderful World of Persian Rugs, then you probably aren’t very familiar with the acronym. So here’s a little overview.
Knots Per Square Inch
KPSI stands for Knots Per Square Inch. A general guideline is the higher the knots per square inch, the higher the quality since more effort, material and time are usually invested in the creation of the Persian rug.
Low: 150 and under
Medium: 151-250
High: 251+
Like any rule, however, there are exceptions – so many, in fact, that if you’re a novice, you should not consider the KPSI count of a rug only. And here’s why.
It’s Not All About KPSI
KPSI can vary depending on the type of rug as well as where and when it was made. For example, Persian rugs hailing from the area of Bidjar may have a low KPSI count, but they can be incredibly valuable and durable nonetheless. On the other hand, some antique rugs from another city can be 900 KPSI or above, easily surpassing the 2000 mark. A rug may also have a low KPSI count, but still be an antique masterpiece that fetches a high price. Therefore, it is recommended that you explore more about the history and style of the rug to determine its quality and value rather than relying on KPSI alone. Talk to the seller to find out. They should know about the background of the Persian rug in question.
The Formula
Still want to know what the KPSI of the rug you’re interested in is? Simply flip over the handmade rug to expose the “bottom” (fine Persian rugs are actually reversible, so this may be tricky) and pick out a 1×1 inch area, preferably near the centre where a design is most intricate. Doing so will help you distinguish the yarn forming a single knot more easily, since one knot will be a single colour. Count the knots going vertically for 1 inch and horizontally for 1 inch, then multiply those two numbers together. This will give you the KPSI.
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