Rug dyeing

the yarn is first rinsed for half an hour in hot water. if the wool is very greasy approximately 3% soda and a little soap are mixed into the water. then the yarn is steeped for about 12 hours in an alum-bath, to a formula of one pound of yarn to 1/4 pound alum. the alum-bath is then repeated, or the yarn is boiled for about an hour in alum-water. these preliminary processes must be completed before dyeing, which will take more or less time according to the particular dye. the yarn remains in the dye bath for many hours,sometimes for days. finally it is dried in the sun.
In the case of town or village made rugs,yarn can be dyed in bulk so as to obtain a uniform tint. Nomads,however,constantly on the move,and with only a few primitive and small vessels at their disposal can dye only small quantities at a time and have really no chance of hitting exactly the same shade each time. Again, there may be variations in color because the wool comes from different sheep.Yet in nomad rugs,this very diversity of tint is often prized.
Skill in dyeing is a prerequisite for the creation of a really fine carpet,since the number of colors often increases with the density of the knotting. The dyer's craft is regarded as a science,and the carpet dyer as a sage, to be consulted about many things. When he is at work, however only carpet dyers may speak to him!