A few weeks ago I did not know much about sisal. My knowledge of natural fibers had been a bit limited before I came to Merida. But now in my fourth week as the marketing intern, I know that there is a lot to be said about this particular fiber.

• It is rapidly renewable
• It is durable
• It is naturally insulating and difficult to ignite
• Its production does not require the use of herbicides or pesticides

I also know that there is a lot that distinguishes the sisal that Merida uses in its area rugs. It all starts with the plant. Merida uses the highest-quality sisal, grown in the ideal climate conditions of East Africa. Then Merida’s unparalleled production process turns those fibers into its many distinctively designed rugs.

First, the cleanest, whitest fibers are separated and shipped to Belgium. There they are machine-combed nine times to soften and separate the fibers. After combing, the sisal is fiber dyed, which ensures rich, consistent color.  The dyed fibers are then spun into smooth, silky yarns and woven into broadloom on jacquard looms. The process is completed with the talented Merida workroom staff who finish the rugs with custom shapes, sizes, and edge finishes.

Working in the same building in which these finishing touches are made, I have been able to see and appreciate exactly what this process produces for our customers. Compared with some of the natural fiber textiles from other companies that I have seen at the Boston Design Center, Merida’s extensive process does make a huge difference in terms of quality and presentation – one that even the untrained eye of an intern can distinguish.

Here I am showing off two of our new sisal designs, Kyoto (left) and Serengeti (right).

Tags: eco friendly, natural fiber rugs

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 7th, 2009 by Zairo and is filed under Products. Both comments and pings are currently closed.