INTRODUCTION
Picking the right rug can be a very difficult task for consumers today considering the huge selection available on the market. Knowing the right things to look for when making a decision will ensure that you’re getting what you paid for. The following tips will give you the tools necessary to making the best decision.
The first thing you’ll need to do is decide what the best size and placement is for your heirloom item:
1. Fill the Room
2. Central Focus
3. Accent Pieces
COLOR SELECTION
Now that you know the size and placement of your rug, it’s time to pick the right colors. Every decorative component in a room should be built around the rug. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:
1. Primary Colors – Fundamental (blue, red, yellow, etc.)
2. Neutral Colors – Subdued Fundamental (light blue, light red, light yellow, beige, etc.)
3. Warm Earth Tones – Red-Toned (beige, sand, pumpkin orange, avocado green, etc.)
4. Cool Earth Tones – Blue-Toned (taupe, slate, teal, gray shades, etc.)
ESSENTIAL TOOLS
Here are the main components to look for when selecting a rug
#1 ORIGIN
Identify the integrity and authenticity of a rug by inquiring about its origin. Any good dealer will know all of the manufacturer’s background information and production methods
#2 WEAVING METHOD
When investing in a rug, make sure it’s handwoven. Don’t be fooled by “hand-tufted” or machine-made products which are inferior in quality and aesthetics. Hand-knotting techniques have not changed in centuries which makes them unique works of art that appreciate in value over time.
#3 DYES/COLORING
Organic and natural dyes are derived from elements such as plant life and even insects in the region of a rug’s origin. Whether organic dyes were used is easily determined if you know what you’re looking for. There will always be shade variations throughout the piece depending on how much color was absorbed by the wool in the dyeing process. You’ll also never get a true white in handmade and naturally dyed rugs as this is only accomplished through chemical bleaching.
#4 KNOTTING TECHNIQUE/DENSITY
[Photo of Symmetrical/Asymmetrical Knots from Pamphlet]
Knowing how a rug was knotted is another huge factor in proper selection. The best technique is the symmetrical, or double-knotted, one. This technique is the oldest and most durable. This method provides a stronger frame and higher knot density.
#5 VISUAL ATTRIBUTES
Hand-spun and hand-dyed yarn, when incorporated into a rug, creates very subtle variations in color tone and even dimension when viewing a rug at certain angles and in certain lighting. This variation is called “abrash.” This visual wave effect adds charm and reflects true craftsmanship and quality.