Weaves: Ingrain

Ingrain carpet, also known as Kidderminster or Scotch carpet, is a flat weave. It has neither loops nor tufts on its surface. It has either a worsted, linen or cotton warp and weft. It is usually woven in 36-inch width. Most ingrain carpet has been made in a two-ply fabric, with the aide of a "double cloth jacquard" machine. Ther term "two-ply" in this case, means two sets of weft yarns, interchaged in such a way that while the pattern is alike on both sides, the colors are reversed; that is (if we suppose the colors to be red and tan) where the design is in red on one side, it will be in tan on the other side, and vice versa. Three-ply ingrains have also been made. Three colors are used in these and their weaving is slightly more complicated than that of the usual two-ply ingrains. Designs for ingrains require careful planning to eliminate any large spaces unoccupied by the pattern. These ground spaces make "pockets" between the two layers which are not good for wearing purposes. The large, floriated, scroll designs were ideal for this weave, as the many serrations in the leaf and flower motifs, requiring an interchange of colors, held the two layers of woven web firmly together.