Interview With Bob Hest, Artist and Rug Designer

Bob Hest is an artist and new friend to our company. We recently had a chat on the phone. Remember that?

Sherri: I know you are a painter but Bob what on earth possessed you to begin your rug project?

Bob: I’ve always wanted to make rugs. Really forever.  I was fortunate to meet a man in the rug business. He liked my paintings and suggested we make a few rugs using my oil paintings as the basis for their designs. Lucky Bob. 

Sherri: What is the process like?  I know from my experience it’s quite involved. 

Bob:  If I only knew. One selects paintings, then make patterns for the weavers, select yarn colors, and then send to India for strike off to be made. 

Sherri: How long does it take?

Bob:  Usually about three months.  Then it comes back and color changes may need to be made. We’ve been very fortunate and have not made many mistakes. Then back to India and wait another three months for completed rug to be finally finished. I’d say each rug takes seven months to be made. 

Sherri: So it’s really easy huh?

Bob: Funny girl!  I had to let go of my American way of doing things. The Indian culture and climate has its own rules. Monsoons, hot weather, a wedding, a funeral, religious celebrations, all impact the production time. I am now a friend of the man in charge of production and that has really helped me to relax. They get here when they get here. It’s like driving from Minneapolis to Seattle. Enjoy the ride. 

Sherri: Thanks Bob, this has been fun. 

Bob: Sherri, my pleasure. Can’t wait to find out more about your projects. Best to all. 

Check out Bob’s super fun line of rugs on his site. And please tell him I sent you!

Happy Decorating,