Nepal: Made with entirely handcarded, handspun wool, and all natural dyes. Proceeds from the sale of this rug benefit the Machik Tibet Project. The goals of this project are to explore the rich heritage of the Tibetan weaving tradition through the use of superior materials and to generate funds to benefit the Tibetan community in exile. All rugs woven in the Project have colors derived entirely from traditional vegetal dyes. Other than indigo (blue), which is obtained in India, these dyes are indigenous to Nepal. Dye sources include madder root (various shades of red), walnut husks (dark brown), several different local flowers and roots (yellows), and an overlay of indigo on yarn previously dyed yellow (green). All Tibetan Project rugs are washed in soap and water only; they are never subjected to harsh chemical washes as is so often the case. And the wool is pure hand carded and handspun Tibetan wool. The inherent luster of this wool will actually increase with use. Click here for more on the the Machik Tibetan Weaving Project. 11974