Antique Sultanabad
HAND KNOTTED
Hand-knotting is the most labor intensive of all.
This type of weave takes a lot of time and skill.
Quality is determined by the number of knots per square inch.
The tighter the knot and more dense the carpet, the better the quality.
Much training is required to learn to create these works of art.
These rugs retain their value or often increase in value.
In Montgomery, Alabama our go-to source for great rugs is Oriental Accents.
Sultanabads, Heriz, Tabriz and Oushaks are some of the favorites. Tell Teresa and Carrie I sent you.
Karastan rug
MACHINE MADE
Machine make rugs are made on power looms in order to produce rugs quickly.
They come in a wide variety of sizes, styles and colors.
They are usually made of a soft chenille-like fiber.
They are the least expensive type of rug.
These are good “starter” rugs but, like a new car, they lose their value immediately.
HAND TUFTED
Hand tufting is done with a tufting gun that pulls individual yarns through a backing to form a loop
To add strength the carpet is coated with a backing usually of latex.
They are almost always made of wool.
FLAT WEAVE
Flat weave rugs consist of only warp and weft threads and are reversible
A Dhurry rug is a flat weave.
They are very literally flat and are, therefore, not as soft.
They require a pad.
They are less expensive but give a great look.
This rug has been very popular in the last few years. Pottery Barn offers many of these. They are really great at the beach or lake
Natural Fiber
And finally, one of my favorites, the natural fiber rug known as sisal, seagrass, or jute.
Use them alone or as the foundation for a layered look and top with an Oriental, or animal hide for a really fab look!
Designer tip: This is a great way to get a high-end look if you can’t afford the size rug that you really need. Use the sisal as the room size rug and buy a smaller size in the fine rug. Place the small, decorative rug in front of the seating group to anchor it and you have a wonderful look.
.
Hope this helps with your rug buying decisions. Happy shopping.
Cecile Hamblin
I love sisal, jute and seagrass. Had one in our den but unfortunately so did our Golden. No problem just turned in around so the part chewed was under one of the sofas. Great until she chewed the new side. My husband forbade more. That dog has gone to be with Jesus (at least I’m hoping to see all my animals when I get there) so now we just have a boring rug made from carpet. I’m probably the only person who loves the way those rugs feel on your feet.