Pepper

Natural shag rug made by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques in Bhadohi, IndiaNatural inconsistencies and slight variations in size are inherent in these unique, handwoven rugsNatural shag rug made by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques in Bhadohi, IndiaNatural inconsistencies and slight variations in size are inherent in these unique, handwoven rugs 100% New Zealand wool Plush pile (1" to 1.5" high) Color palette: warm vanilla beige, slate grey Tie-dyed with azo-free dyes in small batches for depth of color Natural shedding within the first month of use is to be expected - keep your non-rotary vacuum handy! The shedding quantity and duration varies by foot traffic and rug construction Shedding is typical for most rugs for the first 6-9 months Due to its handmade nature a 5% variance in size, color and texture is to be expected. This shag rug is the real thing-entirely hand-knotted by expert weavers, which is rare, as even "luxury" retailers frequently sell less sturdy hand-tufted or hand-loomed substitutes The CollectionTaking cues from early nomadic techniques across the world, the Elemental Collection represents a foundational type of weave. Like the midcentury designers who loved them, these rugs prioritize the most essential elements of the form, and its original purpose: woven like a sheep's fleece, to keep a body warm.The DesignPepper is a modern take on a shag rug, inspired by midcentury minimalism, with a simple repeating geometric design and a soft blue-grey ground. It's been hand-washed multiple times to achieve extra-soft texture.The MaterialNew Zealand wool is a premium wool beloved for its softness and long fibers. Like all wools, it has a hydrophobic layer which repels dust and dirt, and it has lanolin, which provides its trademark luster as well as protects the fiber from breaking or shedding. It's woven onto a sturdy cotton warp for added durability.The MakerOur partner is a third-generation family-run weaving house in Bhadohi, India. They specialize in hand-knotted plush pile rugs, and their knowledge helped us improve the rugs' construction for strength and less shedding. We like their values, too: creating high quality product and taking good care of their team. Dust and dirt that accumulate in your rug can erode the fibers over time. The best way to combat this is to take your rug outside and give it a good shake every couple of weeks. Depending on how large it is, you may need to recruit a friend to help. Also, be sure to get a rug pad-this helps to preserve your rug in spite of dirt. If shaking it out isn't possible, you can vacuum it instead-just be cautious, and don't use a rotary vacuum, because it can damage the fibers. Once or twice a month, use the suction attachment gently, from side to side. Once or twice a year, flip your rug over and vacuum the back. To ensure equal wear and protect against walk patterns, change your rug's direction periodically. Vacuum on low power with a non-rotary (no spinning brush) vacuum or suction attachment only. Lightly vacuum the rug once a week Once a year, let it sunbathe. Hang it in the sun for a few hours when it's hottest, and flip it over midway through, to expose both sides to direct sunlight. This sun-bleaching helps further sanitize the wool. It's a natural method to bleach and deodorize it. Every 3-5 years, we recommend getting your rug professionally hand-washed. Please do not take it to get steam or dry cleaned-this will almost certainly damage the rug! Hand-washing requires the use of a pH-balanced shampoo, worked into the rug by hand with a soft-bristled brush, before being rinsed thoroughly. This process should be repeated a few times. Use a high-quality rug pad to absorb shock and reduce damage to the pile Due to the hand-crafted nature of our rugs, you can expect to see light shedding, matting, and signs of fiber and thread breakage over time. For high traffic areas, these effects may occur more quickly and easily. Spot cleaning instructions: Lightly dampen a paper towel or cloth with clean water Gently blot the affected area with your damp towel or cloth to dilute the stain If the stain persists, try using an unscented, citrus-free, clear soap to avoid bleaching the textile. Repeat this process until the stain is removed From time to time you may spot tiny flecks of dried hay or grass woven within the fibers-traces of the grazing pastures where the sheep once roamed. These can be removed by hand or with tweezers. Because this rug is made from natural wool rich in lanolin, it may release a subtle sheep-like scent when damp. It's simply the fiber's natural character, and it will disappear once dry.