Handwoven Kilim Rug (5 x 3 ft). The name Kilim properly denotes a specific weaving technique. Kilim are called flatweave or flatware rugs, using only warp and weft threads. Kilim patterns are generally angular or geometric, created by winding the weft threads, which are coloured, backwards and forwards around pairs of warp threads, leaving the resulting weave completely flat. This technique produces bold, sharp patterns that weavers enjoy creating with more freedom than a plain weave technique allows them. Wool is the primary material used to make a kilim rug. Many kilims are made totally from wool where it is used for both warps and wefts, and wool is the primary weft material used with cotton warps, which accounts for the great majority of all kilims. Cotton is commonly used for warps because of its high strength and plentiful supply. Also, because it keeps its shape well in use, retains its natural whiteness with age, and because it can be spun into fine, thin strands, it is commonly interwoven in places to highlight certain aspects in the overall design executed mainly with wool. The genesis of carpet making in Uttar Pradesh can be traced to the Mughal emperor, Akbar, in the 16th century. A caravan of Persian carpet weavers, it is said, on its way to the Mughal court was waylaid and injured by dacoits on the Grand Trunk Road. The weavers were rescued and given shelter by local villagers. The master weaver of the group decided to settle down here and share his skills with his benefactors. That is how the renowned carpet industry of Mirzapur took root.