|
|
|
 |
GREEN products FROM JOAN WEISSMAN STUDIO:
Some great choices for environmentally and socially conscious consumers
Wool rugs are considered to be a green product in general, but as with all materials, there are gradations of how strict the definition is. We offer a full range of possibilities, depending on your requirements, including choices of backing, dyes and yarns.
Tibetan wool rugs are often dyed to match a myriad of custom colors. However, you may also choose a variety of completely natural colors that come directly off the sheep in shades of cream to darkest brown. In addition, we offer a wide selection of vegetable dyed colors upon request.
Tibetan hemp rugs are woven from a sustainable Himalayan crop, locally processed for weaving. Commonly seen in a tweedy, multihued wheat color, the white jute plant also produces clear shades from corn silk to deep gold. Hemp does not shrink and it becomes softer with use. Its anti-microbial qualities resist mildew in damp climates. It can be dyed, but in its natural state it stands alone beautifully as a healthy, simple and elegant floor covering. Hemp can be mixed with wool or silk accents.
Flatweave soumak rugs and needlepoint embroideries come from Pakistan's Hunza Valley on the Old Silk Route. Dyed to rich hues purely with plants and minerals, these wool and silk carpets and tapestries bring old world beauty to Joan Weissman's modern designs. They are always "green".
Hand Tufted Rugs are 100% wool with a cotton backing and coating of latex. All these materials are natural, but the yarns are dyed with long-lasting chromium dyes, so they are more of a "transitional" rather than a purely green choice.
Epoxy Terrazzo flooring releases no harmful components during manufacturing, installation, or the life of the system and, once installed, it prevents radon penetration and helps maintain a healthy indoor air quality. The seamless finish is easy to clean and, because of its exceptionally long life cycle, it conserves energy and other natural resources. (quoted from terrazzo product info)
Social responsibility is an essential component of environmental concern.
“My Tibetan textiles support small groups of artisans who are dedicated to preserving their culture through art while welcoming innovations in design and technology. I believe small-scale commerce across distant borders encourages the positive personal communication often overlooked in corporate globalization. And my American-made rugs are produced by a highly specialized team in a positive work environment.”
Joan Weissman Studio is a member of Rugmark, an international organization devoted to ending child labor. Our Tibetan workshop provides school, food and lodging for the families of weavers who come from remote villages. Tibetan refugees who have fled Tibet help support their community by producing their fine weavings in Kathmandu. Although the Rugmark program is not active in the isolated Hunza Valley of Pakistan, our soumak and tapestry weavers also prohibit child labor. Women earn wages equal to men, and their weaving cooperative provides training in traditional skills, community services and much-needed exposure to the wider world.
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
