eRug.com Blog; Fine Handmade Area Rugs, Persian Rugs, and Oriental Rugs

Area Rugs For Home Decorating

2006-05-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

Area Rugs For Home Decorating
Matthew Anderson

Read how area rugs can break completely the look of any room
into your house. However, how to choose the perfect rug that
more fits with your home decoration? Keep in mind that area
rugs can start as well as finish off the fashion of your living
room, bedroom, entrance, kitchen and even your patio deck style.
You must reach a decision on the most suitable rug that
complements the overall environment scheme and color for a
room. Area rugs come in many different color schemes, basically
there are 2 or 3 to work with. Choose the one that more fits
with your desired decoration.

The Importance Of The Furniture

The kind of furniture in the room is also very important when
choosing an area rug. Most people that want to compliment any
room of their houses with a rug, know what are looking for
before start. For example, if your room features dark wood
furniture, probably your best choice might be darker colors in
the mood of the area rug. No matter what pattern you have
chosen, you will be totally surprised on how the feeling of the
room has changed. Anyhow, there exist a wide range of colors,
patterns and sizes that reflect all possible styles for
enhancing your home. Just choose the correct one and your house
will seem totally different.

The most winning rugs

There are as many rugs styles as colors or designs. However,
Oriental styles are the most demanded for current houses.
Oriental area rugs, including Persians are those compliments in
which colors are nearly dark, featuring no spots that keep the
attention of the visitor. Small rugs are also becoming very
popular. Even hang rugs, sometimes called tapestries, which are
showed on the wall to be put on view for everyone who pass
around. The most important thing for buying an area rug is to
find the most suitable as well as the one that more fits into
your own decoration.

Find Discount Area Rugs Online

Area rugs have been popular during years. They are relatively
easy to take care of, there are many styles, textures,
materials and sizes to choose from, so why don’t buy one? It’s
time to replace some old furniture, all that you need is some
creativity and money. First of all you need to establish a
budget before start searching. You can check many internet
websites in order to get an idea of the prices. There are some
net online that sell discount rugs at affordable prices.

What to look for online discount area rugs? The first and most
important thing when search online is the quality; Make sure
that you purchase good quality items as well as durable that
last at least some years, especially whether you have small
children around. If so, think about the durability of the
offered discounted area rugs. You should do a deep research
around internet before decide on your purchase.

You should study all possible affordable types of materials.
Probably, you already have a rough idea of the material that
you would like your new rug to be. No matter what style, color
or material is, area rugs are a necessity for households.
Everyone should have a great rug for her or his home. Surprise
everyone by adding a new compliment to your entrance, your
friends will be amazed with your new style, do not hesitate
about that.

Matthew Anderson writes for a decorating site
which can be found at http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com. A
guide on home decorating and how to choose from hundreds of
decorating ideas and tips. Read how to find discount area rugs
online at
http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com/carpets-rugs/discount-area-rugs.html

Sweat-Free Rug Searches

2006-04-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of searching online for your next fine-
quality handmade rug? Too many Googles, Yahoos,
and websites making your head spin?

Simplify your rug search!

Slow the 'net down a bit, grab a cup of tea, and log
on to eRug. There's nothing to it. Sure, we have
over 20,000 handmade rugs in our inventory, but you
can find exactly what you're looking for
without chasing all of the ones and zeros.

See how simple it is to do a Detailed Search by
shape, size, category & price. Or, you can just
search by category. It's your choice; Are you looking
for a Modern/Contemporary rug? Just click one
category and you're off!

eRug also has a patented visual search that helps
you to find similar rugs to the ones that you really
like. From any rug details page, just use the
"Show
Similar Rugs" button and you'll have plenty of
rugs to
choose from in your favorite style.

Try it today. It beats the online workout!

Start a Sweat-Free Rug Search

eRugGallery.com offers risk-free handmade area rugs online for home renovations and redecorating

2006-04-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

Online rug retail leader, eRugGallery.com, continues momentum with its new “Try It Before You Buy It” policy. This policy includes a 180-day money back guarantee and free shipping on eRug’s inventory of over 20,000 fine handmade area rugs. The policy allows and encourages customers to try a rug at home before making a final purchase decision.

“We feel that this new, risk-free policy gives customers the added benefit of seeing the beauty of a handmade Persian rug in their home without feeling obligated,” says President/CEO Farzin Kamal. Kamal says that with so many choices online, eRug sees the need for customers and redecorators to experience and try the products at home first.

eRugGallery.com wishes to alleviate some of the challenges when doing a renovation or redecorating a home. Many changes and quick decisions happen during the renovation process, and eRug wants to be clear to its customers that the “Try It Before You Buy It” policy gives ample time to make a final decision on a piece that might stand out as a centerpiece in a room for many years.

eRugGallery.com provides a vast array of rug styles, sizes, and selections, including traditional Persian rugs and modern/contemporary styles. Every rug in the eRug inventory is photographed using high resolution imaging, and customers have the ability to zoom in to see even the smallest details of each and every rug.

Customers, rug collectors, and home renovators who are interested in the “Try It Before You Buy It” policy may visit the eRug site to see and try the 20,000+ rugs online, or to sign up for a free membership (that includes added benefits such as free personal gallery creation) by visiting eRugGallery.com. Customer Service representatives may be reached by phone: 1 (888) 611 – 7847 (toll free) between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. PST Monday through Friday or by email: help@eRugGallery.com

Valuable Spring Cleaning Tip For Your Rugs

2006-03-20T16:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Iranian New Year! The first day of Spring marks the traditional Iranian New Year, or Noruz. And for many it's a great time to do some Spring cleaning!

Here's a Spring cleaning tip for the rugs in your home:

Rotate your rug 180 degrees every few months depending on the extent of traffic. Rotation is necessary for two reasons:

First, all parts of a rug should be exposed to light equally so that the colors fade evenly. When colors are exposed to the sun evenly, they become harmonious and the rug ages nicely, but if different parts of the rug receive unequal amount of sun exposure, overtime, one side might look over faded and one side too bright.

The second reason for rotation is traffic. All parts of the rug should be exposed to equal amount of traffic so that the pile wears evenly.

More information about the maintenance and care for your handmade Persian rugs may be found in the Learn About Rugs section of eRugGallery.com.

Happy Noruz!

Spring Cleaning Uncovers Special Offers for eRug Club Members On Selected Rugs

2006-03-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

eRugGallery.com, a leader in online rug retail, rewards members of a newly created eRug Club program with special offers on selected rugs. A random selection of rugs are now given a “Member Only” savings for a limited time.

Near the end of last year, eRugGallery.com launched a no-risk “Try It Before You Buy It” policy for all customers, which includes a 180-day money back guarantee and free shipping to customers. With the new eRug Club Program, customers, home decorators, and rug collectors alike are now offered additional incentives to become members of the free eRug Club program.

Rug fans may take advantage of an extensive inventory of over 20,000 handmade rugs that are available online, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Some benefits of the new program, which is showing early signs of success, include free design consultant services, the ability to create personal galleries of rugs, early notification of new rug arrivals, and special offers on selected rugs.

eRugGallery.com provides a vast array of rug styles, sizes, and selections, including traditional Persian rugs and modern/contemporary styles. Every rug in the eRug inventory is photographed using high resolution imaging, and customers have the ability to zoom in to see even the smallest details of each and every rug.

With these new special rug offers on selected rugs, eRugGallery.com wishes to provide eRug Club members with an added benefit to try a rug at home with zero risk. In addition, eRugGallery.com plans for added benefits as the eRug Club program develops.

Customers and rug collectors who are interested in “Member Only” savings may visit the eRug site to sign up for a free membership at www.eRugGallery.com, email help@eRugGallery.com, or call 1 (888) 611 – 7847 (toll free) between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. PST Monday through Friday.

Oriental Rugs - History And Information

2006-03-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

By: George Royal

Oriental rugs are handcrafted rugs woven in the Middle East and the Orient - mostly regions extending from China in the east, to Turkey in the west and the Caucasus in the north, to India in the south. Authentic oriental rugs are knotted with pile or woven without pile and exclusively handwoven, which makes them unique and more exquisite, precious, and expensive than the other types of rugs. Some of the most popular and best oriental rugs include the Turkish, Caucasian, Turkoman, Afshan, Donkeybags, Prayer Rugs and Kilims rugs.

Short History:

The earliest known oriental pile rugs were those found in a Scythian burial site in Outer Mongolia dating back to the fifth century B.C. The second millennium B.C in Egypt and Central Asia had already seen the evolution of the art of rug weaving so by the fifth century B.C., rug weaving had become a fairly well-developed art. When the Silk Route came into being in the 17th century during the Safavid reign in Central Asia, oriental rugs started gaining immense popularity and Europe began to import them in large quantities. The rug making art and industry in the Orient also became a lucrative, highly skilled occupation. By the mid 19th century, not only the rich but the middle class citizens of Europe also began to value and afford these exquisite handwoven rugs.

Knots and Oriental Rug Weaving:

Oriental Rugs are handwoven on looms. The pattern of the rug is created by the knot (pile). Pile knots are of two types - symmetric and asymmetric. Symmetrical knots can be tied in such a way to give the pile a left or right inclination. Knot density is measured by counting the knots vertically and horizontally within the given area along the back of the rug. The size of warp (foundation threads wrapped around the loom), warp depression, weft (thread inserted along the width of the loom) and pile threads all determine the knot density. A cartoon (preliminary sketch similar in size to the work) may be created as a guide before weaving.

The loose warp threads along the ends are knotted, woven or braided into the fringe after the weaving. The Selvage is the edge formed after a single terminal warp or a cord made of various terminal warps is wrapped with the weft threads. The side cord may also be added only after the rug has been woven and removed from the loom, and a single cord is sewn on to the side of the rug. To create a rounded finish, an overcast (warps wrapped with a separate thread in circular fashion) may be used.

Type of Materials used for Weaving Oriental Rugs:

Wool, cotton, silk and rayon are commonly used in weaving oriental rugs. Wool and Silk are generally used in the pile. Wool is the most common fiber in the Oriental rug weaving industry and silk is the most expensive. Silk, which is also the most resilient, is used for creating the most elaborate and intricately knotted rugs because of the possibility of creating unique and exquisite texture unmatched by any other. Cotton is mostly used for weft and warp. Rugs made from rayon are cheaper and less durable though they almost resemble silk.

Article Source: http://www.my-articles.com

Design Resolutions for the New Year

2006-02-28T10:09:00.000-08:00

by: Peggy Berk of Area Aesthetics

It's that time of the year again, when we resolve to make changes that will improve our lives. Your home is a big part of your life and a comfortable, inviting space can really make a difference in how you feel every day. It seems only fitting that we should add some design resolutions to our yearly ritual.

So here's my top 10 take on the design resolutions that I believe can make a real difference in your home.

1. Designate a space for clutter and resolve to keep it cluttered. Surprised? While it's true most people would put getting rid of clutter at the top of their lists, I've been in enough homes to understand that if clutter is part of your lifestyle, it will just keep coming back. I do, however, believe that it's possible to control the impact of clutter in your home - and it's simple. Choose a spot that's not visible from the public areas of your home and designate a surface, chest or cabinet of some sort for the paper and other things that usually end up in piles all over your home. Give yourself permission to toss anything you don't want to deal with immediately into your clutter area without even thinking about organizing, filing or putting it away later.

Trust me, if you have no area for clutter you will spontaneously make one, and another, and another. If you have a designated area, it will contain the clutter and keep you from feeling overwhelmed by it. You'll have a much easier time with everything in one spot when you do decide to sort it all out and, in the interim, at least you will know where to find everything you can't find.

2. Try at least one new color in your home to break your "color habits". Be bold, do something unexpected or something you've always wanted to try. If you are really hesitant, put the color inside a closet door - somewhere where you can see and react to it. The room which makes me smile in my home is one in which the painter made a mistake and used a color that I never would have chosen for myself. As I was awaiting his return visit for a repainting, I discovered that every time I walked into the room it made me smile. The room has been repainted a few times over the years, but always with what I call "my happy mistake."

3. Pick the room or area in your home in which you find it hard to relax and do three things to make the room quieter. For example, think about replacing high contrast colors with a monochromatic scheme or toning down the color with a more muted version. Try simplifying the lines in the room and paring down accessories. Get those bookcases in shape, with all books flush to the front of the shelves in size order, and create some empty wall and tabletop space where the eye can rest.

4. Conversely, pick one room or area in your home that feels bland and the most uninteresting and do three things to elevate the tempo and energize the room. Try introducing higher contrast or bolder colors. Layer in accessories, some interesting coordinated fabrics in the form of throws and pillows, and some new textures. Replace large artwork with a grouping that will add motion to the room.

5. Make at least four changes in your home to freshen it up for the spring and summer. Change or reduce the number of layers in your window treatment to let more of the outside in. Do what your grandmother did - use lighter slipcovers on upholstery and seasonal accessories such as bowls of fresh summer fruit and vases of fresh flowers. Pick up those heavy rugs. Now is the time to send them out for cleaning. Replace them with light floor cloths or leave the floors bare for a cooling sensation underfoot.

6. Rethink the least used room or area in your home. It may be great to look at, but if it isn't serving any function, you can do better. s its formality no longer appropriate for your lifestyle? Are your college-aged kids really going to miss the playroom? Should you have retired that home office when you retired?

7. Walk through your home room by room and consciously gauge its impact on your senses by isolating various aspects of the experience. What do you see, hear, smell? What can you touch? How does it make you feel? Make adjustments in each room as needed so that the experience is always pleasant and inviting, and appropriate for the room and its function.

8. Create a space just for you. It can be as simple as a chair in which you can escape with a good book or an entire room. Surround your space in your favorite colors and textures. Make it a place you can use for your most relaxing activities and the best spot you can imagine for just sitting and doing nothing at all. Sit in you personal space at least 10 minutes every day.

9. Approach the design and decoration of your home with joy. Whether it's a little change or a major renovation, try to focus, not on the chores involved, but on the vision you have and the progress you are making toward it. Appreciate the changes, and appreciate yourself for making them.

10. Invite guests a least once a month. When we tidy up for guests, we reawaken our consciousness of all the little things that we can do to make our home inviting and comfortable, details that often get lost in the chaos of our daily lives. Your guests will feel it, but more importantly, so will you.

Happy New Year! May the year ahead bring you all that you hope for and the home of your dreams.

About the Author: Peggy Berk is an award-winning interior decorator and certified interior refiner serving both residential and commercial clients. Her company, Area Aesthetics, provides one day interior redesign, full service decorating and home staging services.

Choosing the Right Size Area Rug for A Room

2006-02-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

By Susan Welch Heeney, ASID, Decorating Studio, LLC

It doesn't seem like it would be a huge problem: you chose the right healthcare plan for your family, easily chose a very expensive automobile to drive to the job you picked over several other fabulous offers. So why is it so hard to decide what size an area rug should be for a space or room?

The problem could be that there are so many "rules of thumb" about the correct size of a rug, and there are also many opposing opinions. That doesn't help, but here are some basic facts about rug size vs room size that may help you. But remember, there are no hard rules here. It's your home; if you like the look and the effect of a particular rug in your home, then it is perfect.

1. Most people feel that to leave at least 18" of bare floor space around an area rug makes the room look better proportioned. If it is a very small room (such as a foyer or entry way) you can get away with having less than 18" of bare floor showing around the rug. Possibly even 8" in a small space.

Guidelines for Selecting A Room Sized Rug

3' 0" x 5' 0" - Size Area Rug For Room Size: 4' 6" x 6' 6" to 5' 0" x 7' 0" & larger

5' 0" x 8' 0" - Size Area Rug For Room Size: 6' 6" x 9' 6" to 7' 0" x 10' 0" & larger

8' 0" x 10' 0"-Size Area Rug For Room Size: 9' 6" x 11' 6" to 10' 0" x 12' 0" & larger

9' 0" x 12' 0" -Size Area Rug For Room Size: 10' 6" x 13' 6" to 11' 0" x 14' 0"" & larger

10' 0" x 15' 0 -Size Area Rug For Room Size: 11' 6" x 16' 6" to 12' 0" x 17' 0" & larger

The above sizes are obviously for reference only, simply because; although rugs may come in standardized sizes, rooms do not.

Also, keep in mind that the above chart is helpful if you want to follow the 18" to 24" of bare floor showing around a room sized rug "rule of thumb".

Most people feel that 18" of bare floor is the minimum around a rug, but that there is really no maximum amount of bare floor that should show.

If it is a very small room (such as a foyer or entry way) you can get away with having less than 18" of bare floor showing around the rug - possibly just 8".

2. Arrange your furniture before determining the size of a new area rug. It generally makes a room look more pulled together for all of the legs of the furniture to be resting on a room sized area rug. Or, if it is just a small area rug, you may want all of the legs of the furniture to be off the rug instead. All legs on, or all legs off is a good "rule of thumb" to keep in mind.

3. Under the Dining Room table, or any table that has a rug under it, it is much easier to maneuver the chairs for easy access to the table if there is at least 24" of rug from the edge of the table out on all sides. This will allow the back legs of the chairs to be on the rug, even when the chair is pulled out slightly while someone is sitting down.

4. For an area rug to look balanced under a bed, it should be large enough to extend beyond the sides of the bed at least 18" for a King or Queen bed and at least 12" for a Full or Twin bed. Depending on the size of your room, you can have more of a rug extension around the bed, but you shouldn't go smaller.

5. It is generally considered awkward for a heavily traffic area to be half rug, and half "no rug". Basically, you don't want one foot on a rug and one foot off as you are walking through an area constantly.

So, to sum it up - there are no real rules about the size of a rug vs the size of the room, but hopefully this has given you some guidelines to follow when selecting your area rug.

For more information and practical help on decorating, visit DecoratingStudio.com.

For more information about handmade area rugs and an inventory of over 20,000 handmade rugs online, visit eRugGallery.com. eRugGallery.com is the leading online retailer of handmade area rugs, with a risk-free "Try It Before You Buy It" policy.

All Rights Reserved, Copyright @ 2005, Decorating Studio, LLC
Reprints are allowed as long as article, with by line and links to Decorating Studio at top and bottom of article are left intact.

Everything You Need To Know Before You Buy a Handmade Persian Rug

2006-01-16T11:42:00.000-08:00

Afshar, Bakhtiari, Bijar, Esfahan, Farahan, Ghouchan, Hamadan, Heriz, Kashan, Kerman, Mashad, Nain, Qashghai, Qum, Saruk, Serapi, Shiraz, Sultanabad, Tabriz. These are just a few of the many beautiful Persian rug styles available on the market. You might be thinking: “O.k., that’s great, but what is the difference between a Nain and a Qum? What are a Nain and a Qum? How can I be sure that a Persian rug is worth the investment?”

Never shopped for a Persian rug before? Start by educating yourself. It seems like there are enough unique rugs and styles for each person in the world. Here is everything you need to know before you start sifting through the piles of handmade Persian rugs:

A Brief Thread of History

The earliest pile-weave rug discovered in its entirety dates back to the 5th century B.C. It was discovered frozen in 1949 by a Russian archaeologist, Rudenko, in a Scythian burial site in the Altay Mountains of Siberia near the northeastern border of Mongolia. The importance of Pazyryk rug is that it proves pile weaving is an ancient craft. Until the discovery of Pazyryk carpet, the scholars relied on literary accounts about the existence of certain rugs in history that did not specify the technique by which the rugs were woven.

The dimensions of Pazyryk were 6' by 6' and it was woven by symmetric knots of about 200-225 per square inch. It is uncertain what the origin of Pazyryk is; however, it has Persian Achaemenian (a Persian dynasty who ruled from 550 to 331 BC.) motifs. Some scholars believe that because of its Achaemenian motifs, it was made in Persia and was imported. Others disagree and believe it was made near the area where it was found. Currently the Pazyryk carpet is in Hermitage Museum in Leningrad, Russia.

As you can see, rugs tell stories. Are you just shopping for a rug or a rich piece of history?

Shape and Size

Size matters. Size and shape should be considered, depending on your taste, furniture, and space. Are you going to use a palace-sized rug for the centerpiece of a large room, or do you need a few small rugs for fun accents around the house? Runners look great in hallways, while round, oval, and square rugs might be best suited for your office space. Rectangular rugs are by far the most common shape and more widely available. A good dealer should have an array of shapes and sizes, including some of the rare non-rectangular shapes.

Design Elements

Colors are key. Everyone sees color in slightly different ways. The colors of handmade Persian rugs can vary from dominant, rich, red hues to calm beige and camel variations. You’ll find that the color of your rug seems to vary over the course of the day, as natural lighting has a magical effect on the wool and silk materials of high quality rugs. And you might feel that there are too many complex colors in one rug. You will be amazed, however, when some subtle colors in a complex design are enhanced by the color of your walls, furniture, or floors. It’s a good idea to try a rug in your home for a few days, weeks, or months (depending on the policies of your dealer) before you decide to keep it.

Consider styles, but don’t limit yourself. It really does seem like there are enough unique rugs and styles for each person in the world. Rug styles involve everything from complex, curvilinear designs to basic and colorful animal shapes. You might prefer the playful Gabbehs with bold blocks of colors and a thick pile over the luxurious feeling of a silk Qum with over 400 knots per square inch.

In the end, what you need to know before you buy a handmade Persian rug is what you like. Try to spend your time browsing, asking lots of questions, and seeking the rug that you will fall in love with as you unroll it in your family room.

Seek A Reputable Dealer

This is among one of the most important things that you need to know before you buy a handmade Persian rug. Start your rug conversation with a dealer that provides outstanding selection, service, and savings. eRug.com is one such dealer with excellent policies. eRug.com offers a complete no-risk rug experience where you can “Try It Before You Buy It.” This means that you have a 180 Day Money Back Guarantee, Free Shipping (even if you return a rug), No Restocking Fees, and a Savings of 50% to 75% Off Retail Prices. On top of great policies, eRug.com offers a selection of over 20,000 handmade rugs available in inventory, free professional design consultation, and an extensive “Learn About Rugs” resource on the website. The eRug.com “Learn About Rugs” resource provides detailed answers to your questions, such as “What is the difference between a Nain and a Qum?” Go to www.eRug.com today to find a handmade Persian rug just for you.

Carpet Buying Advice From Martha Stewart Living

2006-01-10T10:21:00.000-08:00

I just found a great piece of advice from MarthaStewart.com when you are looking for carpets and area rugs. One tip is to know about the fibers that are found in carpets and area rugs:

A carpet’s appearance, texture, and longevity also are determined by its fibers. The pile can be natural, synthetic, or a blend of several fibers.

Wool is strong, static-resistant, and pleasing to the touch.
What to know: It is the fiber that most synthetic fibers are meant to imitate, and it is more costly than those materials. Wool is resilient and also naturally stain-resistant and flame-retardant. Note that a wool carpet will shed a bit initially.

Silk carpet is largely produced in India, China, and Turkey.
What to know: Carpets made from silk are soft and luxurious. Silk dyes better and is more durable than any other fiber. Because of silk’s high cost, the fiber is often blended with wool.

Read More Tips On Buying Carpets And Area Rugs From Martha Stewart.

eRug.com carries a large inventory of handmade wool, silk, and wool/silk blend area rugs.

4 Simple Steps To Create That Warm, Fuzzy Feeling in Your Home

2006-01-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

Persian Rugs. Have you ever noticed the enormous variety of rugs displayed in online and offline stores? How does one go about finding the perfect rug to spice up the home with all of these choices?

They're gorgeous, handmade, colorful, with modern designs, traditional Persian styles, rectangular, round, palace-sized, small, and can be pricey or inexpensive. How do you know that what you are about to purchase is a high quality rug that will have lasting beauty for generations of your family?

But most importantly: how do you create that warm, fuzzy feeling in your home with the absolute confidence that you have found the perfect rug?

Here they are-- 4 simple steps to create that warm, fuzzy feeling in your home:

Step 1.
Educate Yourself. Did you know that high quality handmade rugs can be an investment? Make an informed decision by educating yourself. Learn about rugs by researching various rug styles. What is the difference between a Persian Afshar and a Qum? Everything from the country of origin, knots-per-square-inch, age, and quality of the materials (usually wool or silk with fine handmade rugs) should be noted before making a solid investment in a handmade rug.

Step 2.
Size Matters. Size and shape should be considered, depending on your taste, furniture, and space. Are you going to use a palace-sized rug for the centerpiece of a large room, or do you need a few small rugs for fun accents around the house? Runners look great in hallways, while round, oval, and square rugs might be best suited for your office space. Rectangular rugs are by far the most common shapes and more widely available. A good dealer should have an array of shapes and sizes, including some of the rare non-rectangular shapes.

Step 3.
Colors are Key. Everyone sees color in slightly different ways. The colors of handmade Persian rugs can vary from dominant, rich, red hues to calm beige and camel variations. You’ll find that the color of your rug seems to vary over the course of the day, as natural lighting has a magical effect on the wool and silk materials of high quality rugs. And you might feel that there are too many complex colors in one rug. You will be amazed, however, when some subtle colors in a complex design are enhanced by the color of your walls, furniture, or floors. It’s a good idea to try a rug in your home for a few days, weeks, or months (depending on the policies of your dealer) before you decide to keep it.

Step 4.
Seek Reputable Dealers. This is perhaps the most important step in your rug experience. Find people with knowledge about rug styles, the rug industry, interior design, and you’ll want to be able to ask as many questions as possible to feel comfortable making your purchase. Look for dealers with extensive educational resources (some online companies are great at giving well-researched, thorough information on their site) and try to find dealers that offer a solid money back guarantee, fair pricing, and free shipping.

Whether you’re looking for a Persian Sultanabad area rug or a rug with a basic, elegant Tibetan motif, you’ll know where to start with these 4 simple steps to feel warm and fuzzy in your home!

European Art History Found in Handmade Rugs

2006-01-05T14:11:00.000-08:00

Unlike most oriental rugs that are woven for everyday use by the weavers themselves or for sale in local or foreign markets, European rugs have been mainly custom-made and designed by famous designers of the time. European rug styles are unique in that they have mirrored the arts of different European periods such as paintings and architecture. For example, French Aubusson and Savonnerie rugs of the 17th and 18th centuries copied the elegant floral designs and vivid colors of the Baroque and Rococo styles of that period. Many 18th-century European rugs even copied the ceiling designs of the rooms for which they were commissioned.

The influence of William Morris, Art Nouvea, and Art deco can also be seen in English rugs of these periods, and Donegal designs of Ireland echo geometric designs of the 20th-century abstract art. Some of the significant rug weaving centers of Europe have been Spain, France, England, and Ireland.

Spain

Rug weaving was introduced to Europe through Spain during the control of Muslim Moors who ruled from the 8th through the 13th century. Moors who stayed in Spain after the 13th century wove rugs in two styles: a mixture of Islamic and Christian motifs, and copies of Turkish motifs. For example, some early 15th century rugs had coats of arms (Christian motif) and kufesque borders (Islamic motif). Rugs of Turkish influence, which became more dominant in the 16th and 17th centuries, had large octagonal medallions or were woven in Holbein or Lotto designs. In the 18th and 19th centuries, French Aubusson and Savonneire styles became dominant in Spain. Today Spanish rugs are made in a variety of styles including modern European styles, and Persian and Anatolian styles. The dominant colors used in these contemporary Spanish rugs are light blue, yellow and green.

France

It could be said that the most important styles in the history of European rugs include the Savonnerie and Aubusson French styles of the 17th and 18th century. Savonnerie rugs were mainly woven for palaces and by special orders. These designs produced under the direction of artists of the royal courts consisted of naturalistic floral motifs, coats of arms and heraldic devices and some architectural motifs. Many rugs echoed the elegant ceilings of the rooms for which they were commissioned. The greatest period for Savonnerie rugs was between 1650 and 1789.

Aubusson rugs were first made in Aubusson, France in about 1665. The initial designs were Turkish copies; however, later designs were simpler versions of the Savonnerie designs, which consisted of floral medallions with naturalistic floral and some architectural motifs in the field. By the 1870s rug production had stopped in Aubusson. Today, Savonnerie and Aubusson styles are copied in India, Pakistan and China.

England

The earliest English pile rugs date back to 1570, most of which were Turkish copies. Some early custom-made rugs also included designs of coats of arms and heraldic devices. From about 1765 through 1790 Adam architectural and interior designs became fashionable. During this time, pile rugs which echoed the Adam designs were also woven. Some common motifs of Adam designs included oval and octagonal shapes in addition to fans, wreaths and garlands. Once again the rug designs mirrored the embossed paneled ceilings of the rooms for which the rugs were commissioned. The main colors used in these designs were gray, light blue and some shades of red.

Another name associated with English rugs is William Morris, who was an artist, writer, designer, and social activist. His designs included floral motifs with arabesques, influenced by Persian styles. The dominant colors used in his designs were blues and reds. His designs were made between 1878 and 1881; however, these designs are still among the European designs copied by China, Pakistan and India. By the end of the 19th century, tufted rugs replaced pile rugs in England.

Ireland

Pile rugs have been made in Donegal, Ireland since 1858. The contemporary designs of these famous Donegal rugs are either neoclassical or reflect 20th-century abstract art. These rugs are generally custom-made and the colors are commonly chosen according to the taste of the client, although pastel colors are frequently used.

Diversity of Persian Rug Styles

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When we think of Persian rugs, we usually think of intricate curvilinear designs; however, Persian styles are the most diverse styles worldwide. There are over fifty different Persian styles woven in Iran and other countries such as India, Pakistan, China, and some European countries. Some well-known Persian styles include Afshar, Arak, Ardabil, Bakhtiari, Bijar, Esfahan, Farahan, Ghouchan, Hamadan, Heriz, Joshaghan, Kashan, Kerman, Kermanshah, Lilian, Malayer, Mashad, Nain, Najafabad, Natanz, Qashghai, Qazvin, Qum, Ravar, Sabzevar, Sarab, Saruk, Senneh, Serapi, Shiraz, Sultanabad, Tabriz, Tehran, Varamin, Yazd and Zanjan.

How To Find The Right Size For Your Handmade Rug

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When talking about sizes of handmade rugs, we also need to discuss their shape. Handmade rugs are made in different sizes and shapes. Since most handmade rugs are rectangular, only this shape rug has been assigned standard sizes. Other shapes include runner, round, oval, square, and some odd shapes. We will discuss each shape and their dimensions in detail; however, as a general rule choosing the correct size rug depends on the dimensions of the room or space you are trying to cover. Handmade rugs are not intended to cover the entire floor. Because handmade rugs are a work of art, similar to paintings, they need a frame to enhance their beauty. This frame is created by allowing at least one to two feet (30 to 60 centimeters) of open space between the rug and the surrounding walls.

Size is a very important factor in pricing a handmade rug. Therefore, understanding the units of measurement used in determining the dimensions of a rug are also important. The length and width of rugs can be expressed in both the British Imperial System (feet and inches) and the Metric System (meters and centimeters). Likewise, the area of the rug is calculated in square feet in the British Imperial System and in square meters in the Metric System. Every foot is equal to 12 inches, and every meter is equal to 100 centimeters. Also, every foot is equal to approximately 30 centimeters. Therefore, every meter is equal to 3.28 feet.

For More Information About Sizing For Handmade Rugs, Ask an eRug.com Design Consultant For Free Advice

Significant Rug Moments

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Safavid Dynasty

The greatest period of Persian art and especially rug weaving was during the reign of the Safavid Dynasty (1502-1722), mainly during the rule of Shah Tahmasp (1524-76) and Shah Abbas I (1588-1629). Shah Abbas himself was a skillful weaver. Safavid Shahs (rulers) established royal weaving workshops in the cities of Kashan, Kerman, Esfahan, Joshaqan, Tabriz, Yazd, Shiraz, Herat (part of Afghanistan today) and Sabzevar. As a result, many quality rugs were designed by famous artists. Rug weaving transformed from a nomadic craft into sophisticated art. The designs also transformed from their geometric nature into curvilinear patterns. The design repertoire was also dramatically increased.

Introduction of Rug Weaving to India

Rug weaving was introduced to India during the sixteenth century at the time of the Moghul Emperor Akbar. At the same time rug weaving was flourishing in Iran under the rule of the Safavid Dynasty. Many of the Indian workshops were set up under the supervision of Persian weavers. Consequently, Indian designs were strongly influenced by those of Iran, mainly by the curvilinear styles such as Esfahan. It is even possible that the first Persian weavers who were brought to Lahore (at that time part of India, now part of Pakistan) came from Esfahan.

Qajar Dynasty

The first synthetic dye, Fuchsine (a magenta aniline), was developed in the 1850s. Shortly after, other synthetic aniline dyes followed. Synthetic aniline dyes, made from coal tar, were brilliant, inexpensive, and easy to use; however, they faded rapidly with exposure to light and water. In 1903 Nasser-e Din Shah, the Persian king of Qajar Dynasty (1794-1925) banned the use of aniline dyes in Iran. Persian weavers discontinued the use of synthetic dyes until the modern synthetic chrome dyes, which were colorfast, were developed in the years between the First and the Second World Wars.

Introduction of Rug Weaving to Europe

Rug weaving was introduced to Europe through Spain during the control of Muslim Moors who ruled most of the Iberian Peninsula, southwestern Europe, from the 8th through the 13th century. Spain became an important rug producing area in the twelfth century.

Significant European Styles

The most important European styles in the history of European rug weaving are the French Savonnerie and Aubusson styles of the 17th and 18th century, which are still being copied by countries such as India, Pakistan, China and Iran. The Savonnerie workshops were set up in Paris by Pierre Dupont in 1628 with supervision of Henry IV. Savonnerie rugs were mainly woven for palaces and by special orders. These designs were produced under the direction of artists of the royal courts. The greatest period for Savonnerie rugs was between 1650 and 1789. Their production was interrupted by the French Revolution, and finally in 1825, the Savonnerie workshops were moved to the Gobelins. Aubusson rugs were first made in Aubusson, France in about 1665. By the 1870s rug production had stopped in Aubusson.

Famous Historical Rugs

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Pazyryk Carpet

The earliest pile-weave rug discovered in its entirety dates back to the 5th century B.C. It was discovered frozen in 1949 by a Russian archaeologist, Rudenko, in a Scythian burial site in the Altay Mountains of Siberia near the northeastern border of Mongolia. The importance of Pazyryk rug is that it proves pile weaving is an ancient craft. Until the discovery of Pazyryk carpet, the scholars relied on literary accounts about the existence of certain rugs in history that did not specify the technique by which the rugs were woven.

The dimensions of Pazyryk were 6' by 6' and it was woven by symmetric knots of about 200-225 per square inch. It is uncertain what the origin of Pazyryk is; however, it has Persian Achaemenian (a Persian dynasty who ruled from 550 to 331 BC.) motifs. Some scholars believe that because of its Achaemenian motifs, it was made in Persia and was imported. Others disagree and believe it was made near the area where it was found. Currently the Pazyryk carpet is in Hermitage Museum in Leningrad, Russia.

Spring of Khosrau

In Persian manuscripts of 6th century A.D. there is mention of a rug called the 'Spring of Khosrau' which some scholars say belonged to the Persian king, Khosrau I of the Sassanid Dynasty, who ruled from 531-579; others say that it belonged to Khosrau II (590-628), grandson of Khosrau I. The rug was kept at the Sassanian palace at Ctesiphon in modern day Iraq. 'Spring of Khosrau' was woven with wool, silk, gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones. It was possibly a garden design. Experts believe that it was a flat-weave and was not woven in one piece. This rug has never been discovered.

Ardabil Carpets

A famous pair of rugs woven during the reign of Shah Tahmasp (1524-1576) of Safavid Dynasty are the two almost identical Ardabil Carpets. The date, 1539-1540, and the name of the designer, Maqsud of Kashan, have been woven into both rugs. The dimensions of both rugs are the same, 17' 6" by 36' 6". Their foundation is silk, and they have been woven with 300 asymmetric (Persian) knots per square inch.

One rug is in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, England and the other is in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The former has been repaired with fragments of the latter. Therefore, the one in Victoria and Albert museum is in whole and the one in Los Angles is missing its borders. The origin of the rugs has been linked to Ardabil, Kashan, Mashad and Tabriz, as well as other places.