The following article introduces the essential area rug topics. Each topic is then fully explored in it own articles accessible by following the "Continue ..." link.

Choosing Area Rug Color & Decorating Strategies Color can set the entire mood for a space and is usually the first criteria for any rug shopper. Lighter shades can brighten a space and give it a more open feel, and by contrast, darker shades can create a more intimate atmosphere. Additionally, choosing the right color might involve finding a shade that complements a fabric or wall treatment. We offer specific color tips as well as some interesting information on a color’s symbolic meaning in an area rug. Continue ...

Buying the Correct Size Deciding the correct area rug size and shape is pragmatic but essential. However, size and shape can reveal style and make artistic statements. More often, the correct size and shape should and will go unnoticed. Choosing the wrong since can be disastrous mistake. Obviously, this is a matter of vital importance since an improperly sized or shaped rug can raise a multitude of issues. Finding the correct size starts with measuring the room the rug will occupy and then deciding the actual space you want to rug to fill. Certainly, the matter of taste plays a role in size but there is only so much wiggle room to explore before having a rug that is the wrong size for an area. A crucial note on area rug size is that there are industry sizes, which are estimates of a rugs size (e.g., 5’ x 8’) and the actual size of the rug (e.g., 5’3” x 7’7”). As the parenthetical examples note the industry size is can be longer of shorter than the true measurements. Continue ...

Fiber Choices & Benefits Perhaps the two most important area rug issues are fiber and construction. What a rug is made from and how it is held together is the starting point to evaluating an area rugs quality, durability, price, and ultimate value. Most rugs are either made of natural or synthetic fibers – some are made from blend of both. Rugs made from natural fibers tend to be more expensive and superior in quality and overall durability. Synthetic area rugs are very popular due to their lower price points. Manufactures of synthetic rugs have also done an amazing job in developing fibers that emulate the finest natural threads. Analyzing fiber is more complex than simply distinguishing natural versus hand made; there is important variation within fiber groups that will affect the rug. As we have become more Eco conscious new renewable fibers are being used to weave Eco Friendly Rugs or “green area rugs” such as bamboo, jute, sea grass and sisal. Continue ...

Area Rug Construction: Craftsmanship & Cost The basic points of emphasis in analyzing construction issues are whether it was handmade or machine-made. It is intuitive so you probably know that a handmade area rug is usually more expensive than a power loomed or machine-made rug. Like the issue of fiber, there are severe and material divergences within each category of area rug construction that will affect the rugs quality. An example that surprises some people is that there are handmade area rugs woven with synthetic fibers. Continue ...

Pile Options Closely related to fiber and construction is area rug pile. Pile is the word used to describe the density or thickness of the rugs fibers that are raised for the foundation. It is the visible surface of the rug that is walked on. The thickness of pile varies between rugs and in handmade rugs is often trimmed to the weaver’s discretion. There is great variation in area rug pile ranging from flat jute rugs to lush shag area rugs. Continue ...

Making a Statement with Special Shapes Special shaped rugs usually refer to rugs that are round, square, octagon, and oval since the majority of rugs are rectangular. Runners are often considered a specialty rug and can be purchased in a set length or by the foot. Special shaped rugs are often used as a necessity to achieve the perfect fit; however, they are regularly used in foyers and in rooms that demand a more dramatic statement. There is also the shape sub-category of novelty shapes usually found in kids rugs. Continue ...

Defining Rug Style The issue of area rug style can be confusing due to the narrow distinctions among the classifications. The weight of those distinctions is occasionally of great importance. The exception to the rule is when discussing the important differences between Persian rugs and oriental area rugs, which fall under the general category of traditional area rugs. The second most broad style category is modern rugs or contemporary area rugs, which are extremely popular and continue to grow in demand. Somewhere between those groups falls the category known as transitional are rugs, which appeal to individuals seeking a less formal brand of elegance. Casual area rugs tend to be simple in pattern a color (often a solid color) while complex in texture (such as shag). Other popular styles include southwestern, floral, kid’s area rugs, and antiqued rugs. An area rugs theme or motif was once a more limited discussion. Traditionally, handmade Persian and oriental area rugs were geometrical, curvilinear, or pictorial in pattern. Floral themes and central medallions were usually standards. With the use of machines the range of area rug themes exploded to include every decor niche imaginable. Continue ...

About Area Rug Brands

The Brand of an area rug can determine the look, feel, quality, and price of an area rug. Further, certain brands specialize in rug weaving, fibers, styles and themes. The brand of a rug is important and easy to overlook; but, it impacts important issues such as warranty and guarantee. We only sell quality brand area rugs.

Care & Cleaning Finally, it is important to address two issues that are central to the longevity of any area rug and are often the subject of questions: rug pads and rug care. Every area rug should be laid on a quality rug pad. Rug pads anchor the area rug to prevent the danger of slippage, protect and extend the life of the rug and the floor it covers, and hides tile floor grout lines and the seems in plank hardwood floors. Of course, once you buy a new area rug you want it to last a life time so we will share some rug care and cleaning tips.