A new generation of interior designers is discovering the allure of needlepoint rugs at a time when these rugs are no longer being made. Most of the needlepoint workshops in China-where 99% of needlepoint rugs were made - have shut down due to skyrocketing wages brought about by rapid industrialization which has drawn workers to higher paying manufacturing jobs. Back in the late 1980's when I first started making needlepoint rugs in China, I was amazed by the quality of the artists and artisans we were able to recruit. These young men and women freshly out of art school possessed unbelievably sensitive eyes for color and design. Now with China no longer making these rugs there are only two specialist importers remaining who have needlepoint rugs because they have retained inventory from before the factories shut down. They are Asmara and Stark Carpet. An additional seven dealers offer antique needlepoint rugs. All 9 top sources of needlepoint rugs are listed at the end of this post. Here are 17 tips for decorating with needlepoint rugs.
