TYPES OF RUGS EXPLAINED
Rugs without a pile,
also known as flatweave rugs, are woven back and forth without any raised
fibers. Examples include Native American carpets, kilims from Iran or Turkey,
and durries from India and Pakistan.
On the other hand, rugs
with a pile can be either machine-made or handwoven. These rugs have a thicker,
more plush feel due to the raised fibers created during their construction
process. This thickness, or pile, is achieved either by hand-tying knots or by
machine weaving using a power loom.
Now, let's delve into
the various types of rug construction:
1.
Hand-knotted: Intricately crafted by hand,
each knot is individually tied to create a durable and detailed rug.
2.
Hand-tufted: Made by pushing yarn through
a fabric backing using a handheld tool, creating a plush pile.
3.
Flatweave or Kilim or Dhurrie: Woven
without any pile, resulting in a flat surface with intricate patterns.
4.
Handloom: Created on a traditional loom
operated by hand, producing unique textures and designs.
5.
Machine-made: Produced using automated
machinery, offering a wide range of styles and designs at an affordable price
point.
6.
Hooked Rugs: Made by pulling loops of yarn
or fabric through a backing material, creating a textured surface.
7.
Hide Rugs: Crafted from animal hides,
these rugs add a luxurious and natural touch to any space.
8.
Braided Rugs: Constructed by braiding
strips of fabric or yarn together, resulting in a durable and rustic rug.
Each type of rug construction offers its unique characteristics and style, allowing you to choose the perfect rug to complement your home décor.
Different Area Rug Types Explained
One of the most captivating aspects of hand-knotted rugs is their uniqueness; no two rugs are exactly alike. Unlike machine-made rugs, which follow a standardized pattern, each hand-knotted rug is a testament to the artisan's skill and creativity, imbued with its distinct character and charm.
Oriental rugs, particularly those crafted in India, stand out as some of the most exquisite and sought-after varieties. Characterized by dense, intricate designs, these rugs are available in both handmade and machine-made options. For the ultimate in luxury, opt for rugs made from original silk, selecting them in person from a reputable rug store.
Helpful Tip: If you notice any fibers protruding from the rug's surface, refrain from pulling them, as this may damage the carpet. Instead, carefully trim the thread with a pair of scissors. While fiber popping is common in hand-knotted rugs, exercising caution can help preserve their beauty and longevity.
Tufted rugs are crafted using a specialized tool known as a "tufting gun," which punctures strands of silk or wool onto a cloth canvas stretched over a metallic frame, employing a distinct weaving technique. While tufted carpets may initially resemble hand-knotted rugs, a key differentiator lies in their backing. Unlike hand-knotted area rugs, tufted rugs feature a white latex canvas back devoid of wool knots.
HAND-TUFTED RUGS
Latex serves as a bonding agent applied to the backside of tufted rugs, ensuring the cohesion of the wool fibers. These rugs, known for their affordability and stylish appeal, offer a budget-friendly option for enhancing interior spaces. They are particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas such as hall entryways and living rooms.
However, it's essential to note that tufted rugs may experience shedding, a common characteristic of pile rugs. Regular vacuuming can help minimize shedding over time. Additionally, the rug's durability typically ranges from 5 to 10+ years, contingent upon the quality of materials used by the manufacturer.
When it comes to cleaning tufted rugs, vacuuming is preferable over water washing due to the presence of latex on the canvas. Water washing may risk loosening the wool fibers, compromising the rug's integrity and longevity.
In summary, tufted rugs offer a blend of affordability, style, and durability, making them a practical choice for various living spaces. By understanding their unique characteristics and maintenance requirements, you can ensure that your tufted rug remains a timeless addition to your home decor.
FLATWEAVE RUGS
Flatweave rugs, also known as Kilim rugs or Dhurrie rugs, share similar characteristics and weaving techniques. Unlike pile rugs, they have no pile, resulting in minimal shedding. These rugs are crafted on a loom, utilizing a weaving method that intertwines warp and weft threads to create a thin yet intricately designed surface.
Dhurrie rugs, however, differ from traditional pile carpets in that they are reversible, with identical design patterns on both sides. This versatility allows users to flip the rug as desired, extending its lifespan and usability.
Most flatweave or Kilim rugs feature geometric or diagonal design patterns, making them both visually appealing and versatile. These rugs are known for their affordability and suitability for various settings, from bathrooms to kitchens.
Wool is the predominant material used in flatweave rug construction, often employed for both the warp and weft threads. Alternatively, cotton may be used for the warps, paired with wool or synthetic fibers for the wefts.
A helpful tip for flatweave rugs: due to their thin nature, it's advisable to use a rug pad underneath to prevent slipping and shifting.
In terms of terminology, the distinction between flatweave, Kilim, and Dhurrie rugs is primarily semantic. While some may use the term Kilim, reflecting its tribal origins, others may prefer Dhurrie, as it is known in India. In contemporary contexts, the term Flatweave is commonly used in the West to describe this style of rug.
HANDLOOM RUGS
MACHINE-MADE RUGS
Machine-woven rugs are crafted using heavy electrical machines known as powered looms. These looms are operated by electronic computers, meticulously following a predetermined sequence for rug production. In contrast to handwoven rugs, machine-made carpets require less time for completion due to their automated manufacturing process.
The materials utilized in the production of machine-made rugs vary, often comprising a blend of wool with synthetic fibers such as polypropylene, nylon, polyester, art silk, and acrylic. This combination serves a specific purpose; while pure wool is relatively weak, synthetics offer durability. By blending these fibers, machine-made rugs achieve a balance of softness and strength, minimizing interruptions during the weaving process caused by thread breakage. This strategic combination ensures a smoother and more efficient manufacturing process, resulting in high-quality rugs with consistent texture and appearance.
HOOKED RUGS
Hooked rugs are crafted by hand using a needle-like tool, intricately weaving fibers onto a canvas backing to create stunning designs. These rugs are not only affordable but also fashion-forward additions to any space.
Helpful Tip: Shedding and fiber popping are common occurrences with hooked rugs. To prevent damage, avoid pulling any protruding strands; instead, carefully cut or snip them. Regular vacuuming can help minimize shedding over time. Additionally, consider placing the rug in low-traffic areas to reduce the impact of shedding.
HIDE RUGS
Hide rugs are distinct from both handmade and machine-made varieties; they are crafted from the outer skins of animals. Each animal's hide boasts a unique pattern and texture, contributing to the rug's natural beauty.
Through various processing methods, the hide is transformed into leather or fur, retaining its inherent characteristics. Popular types of hide rugs include sheepskin, goat hide, deer hide, zebra hide, and cowhide, each offering its distinct visual appeal and texture.
BRAIDED RUGS
Braided rugs are crafted by intertwining strips of fabric, which can vary from cotton to wool, creating a charmingly textured surface. Available in different thicknesses, these rugs are versatile and can complement a range of decor styles, from country homes to traditional.
One of the key advantages of braided carpets is their reversibility. Should one side become soiled, the rug can simply be flipped over to reveal a fresh surface. Additionally, these rugs are available in oval, round, and various other shapes and sizes, allowing for flexible placement in any room.