Top 3 tips on How to choose the best Quality Rug

Area rugs normally come in eight different construction types:

HAND-KNOTTED: The most common hand-knotting traditions are Persian, Turkish and Tibetan. The rug begins with a background of vertical warp threads and weavers then uses individual knots of horizontal weft threads to create the design. If you are looking for an heirloom piece this is the best of the best. You can also expect to pay a premium for this labor intensive type of rug. 

  • HAND-LOOMED: This rug is created on a traditional loom. A vertical warp is created and then a shuttle is used to apply the weft. Loomed patterns may have a loop or cut pile surface texture with an appearance similar to hand-tufted rugs. Unlike hand-tufted rugs, these rugs do not require a backing. 

  • HAND-TUFTED: A canvas is stretched tightly over a frame and the design is drawn by hand onto the canvas. A tufting gun is then used to push yarn through the canvas to cover the entire surface area. Tufted rugs can have a cut or loop pile. After tufting, a latex backing with canvas is applied. 

  • HAND-HOOKED: A technique used in hand-tufted rugs to create a loop texture. 

  • HAND-WOVEN: Textures and patterns are created by weaving different yarns through a vertical warp. 

  • HAND-CRAFTED: A rug that is handmade using techniques such as piecing, stitching, die cutting, etc. Hand-crafted can describe hair-on-hide and leather rugs, cut felt rugs, embroidered rugs, etc. 

  • FLATWEAVE: Flatweave is often used to describe kilims and dhurries. A hand-woven construction that typically has no pile and is reversible. 

  • MACHINE-MADE: These rugs are constructed on large, automated looms. The designs are created by lifting the weft yarns to the surface. 

 

 

 

 

Fiber is no small element of an area rug. While you might balk at the hefty price tags, certain fibers will ensure that your rug looks beautiful - even after years of constant use. Depending on your lifestyle and household, you have different fiber options available to you, including the following:

  • WOOL: Wool rugs are an excellent choice for high traffic areas - living rooms and hallways - or spill-prone spaces. If you want a rug that is durable, long-lasting, and naturally stain resistant, you really can’t go wrong with a wool rug.

  • SILK: If you want a truly luxurious rug for your bedroom, pick a silk rug. Just remember they don’t do well with moisture, can be quite expensive, and are less sturdy than a wool rug.

  • COTTON: Cotton rugs are popular among my vegan clients, including flat weaves. They are machine-washable but require a rug pad to keep them from slipping around the room.

  • JUTE AND SISAL: Made of natural materials, jute and sisal rugs are a fun, casual look for a family room or breakfast nook. Keep in mind that jute is coarse and firm, which makes it uncomfortable underfoot. Sisal, however, has a smoother and finer surface.

  • POLYPROPYLENE:  Made from polymer fibers fabricated to look like wool, sisal, and other common rug fibers, these rugs are both durable and soft. They are designed for superior comfort and resilience, making them versatile and extremely easy to clean. For homes with children and pets, I highly recommend a polypropylene rug.