Capel Unveils Chobi Collection

By Cecile B. Corral -- Home Textiles Today, 10/20/2008 12:00:00 AM

Troy, N.C. —

One-of-a-kind, hand-knotted Chobi rugs will be in the spotlight at the High Point showroom of Capel Inc. this week during the International Home Furnishings Market.

This new assortment from the 91-year-old family owned and operated area rug manufacturer and importer includes some Chobi pieces made in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as some special varieties of one-of-a-kind hand-knotted pieces from India.

Knotted in a heavy, thick pile, Afghani and Pakistani Chobi rugs are known for their meticulous hand-spun wool constructions. Capel's offering is available in a variety of designs, including the Sultanabad, Oushak, Tabriz, and Mahal styles. Original patterns feature interesting fusions of color that span mineral hues, Wedgwood-like blues, spice palettes, soft hennas, and brick reds.

"These rugs create interest among buyers who are looking for something specially crafted and unique," said Norm Sweeters, Capel managing director of imported rugs. "Each rug is stunning in a different way, offering individualized designs and color palettes drawn from each artisan's inspirations."

Sweeters said that specifically for this High Point market event, he personally selected the Pakistani Chobis included in this assortment. He added that these pieces are manufactured by highly regarded artisans.

Capel will also being showing a smaller selection of similarly hand-chosen rugs, including Bijar and Tabriz designs, all of which are made from craftspeople in India's Mirzapur-Bhadohi region.

As part of a special market-only promotion, Capel said its one-of-a-kind program is will be available to retailers and showroom customers at 25% below the wholesale price. Normally sold for as much as $5,000, select 8-by-10 Chobis may retail for as little as $2,000 to $4,000 this week at High Point.

Capel's High Point showroom is in space 112 of the main Market Square building.