Oriental Rugs: A Buyer's Guide

It might be difficult to find time to improve your home as a busy homeowner... Even if you only know that a hand-crafted rug will bring timeless character to your space. When you factor in things like:

• Opaque Pricing
• Inaccurate Information or
• Multiple Options to choose from 

It's not always easy to know where to begin... Today, I'll show you how to understand the foundations of rug design so that you may get the greatest quality and save thousands on your own handcrafted ancestral rug. Find out how to shop for a high-quality, affordable Oriental area rug and how to purchase a high-quality, affordable, and customizable modern Oriental rugs in the sections below.

Frustration Among Oriental Rug Shoppers

The price of a rug (which can range from $15 to $90+ per square foot) is determined by a number of factors, many of which are unknown to the ordinary customer. The sheer amount of challenges confronting consumers and designers in the Oriental rug industry today can be daunting, leading to irrational judgments by unhappy buyers. We'll go over some of the most typical concerns that shoppers face below, and then we'll go over ways to remedy these issues and make sure you're getting a fair price for your Oriental rug in the next section!

Frustration #1: Lack Of Information

The Oriental rug industry has a long and complicated history, and some of its characteristics and peculiarities may be unfamiliar to the typical buyer. Oriental carpets are made all over the world, with each region producing rugs of varying varieties and patterns. Rug styles vary by region, as do materials, knot techniques, colors, and other factors. Uninitiated consumers face a significant barrier in locating, navigating, and evaluating the financial relevance of various Oriental rug styles and features.

For Example:

Manufacturing processes, materials used, and knots per inch can all have a big impact on the quality and, of course, the price of your rug...but knowing this information can help you make an informed selection and ensure that you get a good deal. A high-quality rug can quickly become a family legacy that will survive for generations. In fact, like a work of art, the value of a rug can increase with time. (Some carpets, like the Pazyryk Rug, have been discovered dating back to 500 BC!)

Frustration #2: Overpriced Products

A variety of factors (which we'll go over later) influence the pricing of an Oriental rug for all retailers, but one key differentiator is the number of market actors (or "middlemen") between the end retailer and the primary producer. A large retailer, for example, may purchase from a US-based wholesaler, who purchases from an overseas wholesaler, who purchases from an independent supplier, who purchases from a processing plant, and so on. The final retail price of any product rises with each exchange in the market chain. This results in a high-priced rug, which frustrates the customer, but it also means you're speaking with a salesperson rather than a rug expert! We'll go through the EXACT features you should look for, as well as the eight questions you should ask EVERY shop to ensure you obtain the finest rug for your space.

Frustration #3: Lack Of Availability

Because Oriental rugs are supplied from overseas and take months to create, shops often struggle to have enough rugs in store to fulfil demand, or to keep enough of the proper kind or size of rugs in stock. It may be tough to discover the exact rug you want if you have a specific notion of what type of rug you want. However, because most rug dealers do not have online galleries of their items, you may waste time driving from store to store just to discover that the rug you desire isn't available in your area.

This could result in:

1. Overpaying in order to design a custom rug or

2. Settling for a product you don’t want.

This, however, does not have to be the case... As a result, RugKnots launched our "Ask A Designer" service to assist you with two simple options.

Either:

Send us two photos of your space, together with your chosen designs and colorways, as well as prominent room characteristics, and our graphic designer will create photo realistic renderings of your room with rug recommendations tailored to your preferences. This might be a huge assistance in terms of speeding up the process. Book a call with one of our in-house Interior Designers to discuss the best solutions for your needs, mock up designs, or even help you design a personalized heirloom for your home if you need a speedier, more Premium Service. Not only can these capabilities help you get rid of any previous annoyances, but you can also use your mobile device to get room recommendations.

• Show your partner,
• Discuss with your designer/decorator,
• Ask the opinion of friends
• And help visualize your new rug when shopping for other items!

Frustration #4: Poor Customer Service

Because rugs are such a high-value, high-demand item, and because many huge retailers have great market power in the Oriental rug sector, customer care is frequently overlooked. Large, national businesses may be too busy or delayed to respond to client requests, whereas small retailers may be understaffed or underfunded to appropriately serve customers. Obviously, this is not how a business should be handled, and buying a rug/decorating your home is stressful enough! That is why, at RugKnots, we strive to provide excellent customer service. (As a result, we were awarded the Houzz 2015 Customer Service Award!)

Frustration #5: Limited E-commerce Options

Oriental carpet E-commerce has grown in popularity and now constitutes a minor segment of the overall industry; nonetheless, it shares many of the same problems as the in-store industry (overpricing, lack of information, etc.). Only a few direct import Oriental rug businesses remain today, and even fewer have launched an e-commerce platform. The paucity of e-commerce options for people looking for affordable, high-quality Oriental carpets can be discouraging.

3-Step Solutions for Shoppers

So now that we've established the problems and difficulties that can arise, let's discuss the 3-Steps we recommend you follow before making your purchase: 

Step 1: Educate Yourself About Features

Learn about the various features and types of rugs, as well as how they affect price and quality. By understanding the many aspects to look for in your new rug, you can ensure that you receive the greatest quality rug available for you.

Step 2: Educate Yourself About Industry

Learn about the rug industry and how to choose the right rug retailer. By knowing what questions to ask your store, you can quickly determine if you're dealing with many "middlemen" or someone who can actually assist you in making the best selection. 

Step 3: Seek Professional Help

When in doubt, seek professional assistance. If you want to get your goals faster, working with a professional designer can save you time and money while also providing you with amazing ideas for your home! Now that we've established the sources of your problems and the steps we prescribe, let's get to work on giving the information you require! 

The physical characteristics and style of a rug have a significant impact on its appearance, quality, style, and price. In this section, we'll go over the primary qualities and styles of various Oriental rugs, as well as how these aspects affect the price of an Oriental rug and how to apply this information. So let's get this party started! 

Rug Production Location

When seeking to buy an oriental rug, it's vital to remember that the place where the rug was manufactured has a significant impact on the quality, design, imagery, and methods employed to create it. The following countries make the majority of oriental rugs:

• India,
• Pakistan,
• Afghanistan,
• Iran,
• Turkey,
• China, and
• Ukraine

India produces the most Oriental rugs in the world, with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran producing far smaller quantities.

(Note: Turkey, China, and Ukraine also export the smallest quantities of high-quality Oriental rugs)

When the Mughal Emperor Akbar fell in love with his Persian rugs, he dispatched his designers to journey the 2,315 kilometers from Persia (now Iran) to Pakistan in the early 16th century. This sparked a design revival, with carpets being used as artwork and hangings, and the city is still the center of excellent rug production 400 years later. (As we'll see later, the quantity of knots in a rug determines its quality, durability, and level of detail.) Rugs were extremely valuable commodities for royalty during this time, with some having as many as 2000 knots per square inch!)

Why Does Rug Production Location Matter?

The knot count of a rug, which is a reflection of the amount of time it took to make it, is directly proportional to its design intricacy. As a result, highly patterned rugs often have greater knot counts and are thus more expensive than carpets that are simply styled. Furthermore, the backside of an Oriental rug is a sign of its quality; if it completely reflects the frontside, you can be sure it was manufactured with care and precision.

Rug Knot Types

Many Turkish rugs feature single, symmetrical knots, but many Persian countries employ asymmetrical, "open" knots. Each knot produces a rug with a somewhat different appearance, feel, and overall quality. Certain knots and styles are frequently connected with specific cities and regions within countries.

For Example: Bokhara area rugs are mostly made in Pakistan's Lahore region, and Pakistan is recognized for producing rugs with high knot counts.

Frontside And Backside

The design of a rug is a reflection of its intricacy as well as its distinct style (which is typically tied to its production area). Only rugs with large "knot counts" — that is, the number of knots per square inch – can accommodate extremely elaborate designs. When the knot count is high, such as 16/16, it means that:

1. The rug took a long time to produce;

2. The rug’s fibers are densely knotted together, resulting in a plusher feel; and

3. The rug can host a highly detailed and intricate design.

Although the design and intricacy of an Oriental rug may be seen from the front, the rug's backside tells the entire story of its intricacy and knot density. You can literally count the knots per square inch and see the pattern reflected from the rug's frontside by looking at the rear of the rug.

Rug-Making Method

An Oriental rug can be created in one of two ways:

• by hand, or
• by a machine process.

Hand-knotted Rugs

Hand-woven or handcrafted carpets are more distinctive and one-of-a-kind, with tiny imperfections and precise detail that can't be duplicated by a machine. The rug is manufactured on a loom by attaching a number of strings or "Weft" vertically and then weaving the wool in and out of the weft to create the rug's design and images (often by a number of artists at the same time). The higher the number of knots per inch, the more detailed and long-lasting the design.

Side note: The weft is what makes the fringe on the top and bottom of the rug. This is frequently added after machine made area rugs have been manufactured to resemble handcrafted motifs. The quality of your rug, like any artwork, can vary from artist to artist, with flourishes in designs like a painter's brush stroke. Look for tiny flaws, but also for symmetry in form and scale, as this indicates an experienced designer. 

Machine-Made Oriental Rugs

Rugs that may be created rapidly and with near-perfect accuracy (for example, a machine-made rug may measure 8x10', whereas a hand-made rug may measure 7.97x10.08') are also referred to as "hand-tufted." Hand tufted and fully machine manufactured are the two primary forms of machine created rug:

Hand-tufted

The weave is blasted through a backing material with a tool or "Gun" by a user to manufacture these rugs. To keep the rug from coming apart, the backing is a chemical or petroleum-based compound painted over the backside of the rug. For all of the reasons stated thus far, we sell hand-tufted rugs at a lesser price than oriental rugs. Remember that the term "hand-tufted" indicates that a rug is created in some fashion, but it actually refers to a machine-made object. Be aware of stores who attempt to sell hand-tufted things for the same price as hand-knotted items. Finally, you've got;

Machine-Only Rugs

Despite the fact that machine-made rugs are becoming more popular, they lack the aesthetic flourishes and high quality of a traditional handcrafted pattern. Machine-made carpets have their "Fringe" sewed on after construction to create the appearance of a professionally hand-made rug, as previously stated. Many decor enthusiasts still seek out Oriental carpets with hand-knotted individuality and craftsmanship. If you're unsure whether to buy a handcrafted or machine crafted item, consider the following:

Rug Materials

We already indicated that the amount of knots per inch is a good predictor of rug quality. The quality of the material utilized, as well as the type of material used, is the next issue to consider. Although some Oriental rugs are combined with cotton or silk, the majority are made of pure wool. Wool is a high-quality material with a shiny appearance and soft texture that lasts for years, and New Zealand wool (used in the bulk of high-quality Oriental carpets) is regarded as the best in the world. Silk and cotton, while less traditional and less expensive than wool, are gaining appeal due to their unique appearance and modern nature. Pakistan and India have also begun to create a modest number of high-quality Oriental carpets with silk and cotton blends, while Nepal has risen to become the world's leading producer of silk rugs, owing to the country's abundant bamboo silk fibers. Contrary to popular belief, the less "fluffy" a rug is, the more thick, long-lasting, and high-quality manufacture it will be.

Why Does A Rug’s Material Matter?

The fiber materials used in the rug have an impact on its appearance, quality, texture, and pricing. Always inquire if the rug is made of wool, and if so, what kind of wool it is made of.

Note:  Rugs manufactured of high-quality and high-fashion materials (such as New Zealand wool and wool/bamboo silk blends) will almost certainly cost more.

Rug Age

Oriental rugs are made to last for years, and the majority of them do, with proper care. As with a work of art, the value of a rug increases as it ages, making them true treasures for future generations. When compared to current rugs, older carpets (commonly referred to as "antique" or "vintage" when they're more than 30 years old) often have various styles and unique qualities; more crucially, older rugs typically have sentimental value and/or a specific history that some customers value highly. Because most high-quality, traditional hand-knotted rugs are still created in the same way they were many years ago, the quality or style of a modern hand-knotted Oriental rug may not differ significantly from that of an earlier rug. Older rugs, on the other hand, are more expensive than modern rugs because of their rarity and history.

Rug Style

The design of a rug is a significant component when it comes to price, but it is one of the most difficult features to measure. Different fashion trends come and go in clothes, décor, and art, and the Oriental rug industry follows suit. This happened all the way back in the sixteenth century! Rugs were once considered a sacred commodity, hence religious meaning was incorporated into the design. However, as fashions evolved and rugs became more widely available, a lot of designs began to incorporate subtle elements from one another, including multiple religious symbols.

For Example: Early Mughal carpets had designs from their Persian teachers, but they eventually began to include fauna and floral designs specific to Pakistan. See what things are popular among high-fashion Oriental rug makers like ABC Carpet & Home to get a sense of the latest trends and designs in the United States. This is a fantastic resource (And we include more in article 3) Alternatively, based on personal design or even current room ambience, our designer service can develop something comparable to your specifications. If you want a more classic look, Oriental rugs (such as Peshawar or Bokhara) are noted for their ageless appearance. The traditional color schemes of blues, reds, and beige are typically used in these rugs, which are acclaimed for their classic beauty and traditional color schemes. Traditional works frequently have floral designs and intricate borders.

Why Does Rug Style Matter?

Retailers are aware of popular Oriental rug trends and will price their inventory appropriately (simple supply and demand), but it's also worth noting that classic and traditional pieces will always keep steady prices due to conservative consumer demand. (By purchasing the correct rug, a wise investor could possibly see a return on investment!)

Does Rug Size Matter? 

Although the size of a rug is likely its most evident element, designers and consumers sometimes neglect it. The size of a rug not only determines its practical use in a place, but it also has a significant impact on its price. There are three important aspects to consider:

1. Pricing equations are based on size

2. Hand Produced Rugs limits scalability

3. Sizing is a core component of custom order rugs

If you like a rug but would like it in a different size, always ask the vendor if he or she can make a custom-sized order for you. The majority of shops use a pricing scheme that includes a defined price (such as $50) for each rug style. The square foot measurement of the rug is then multiplied by the stated price. Having the CORRECT size for your room is almost as crucial as getting the RIGHT pricing. Before selecting a size, make sure you know where the rug will be placed in your home, as well as the accompanying furniture that will be present. This way, you can be confident that the rug will look good and go in with the rest of the room.

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions by our customers about oriental rugs: A buyer's guide

1. What is the difference between authentic oriental rugs and Chinese rugs?

The most important difference between authentic rugs and Chinese-made imitation rugs is the knot count. Authentic oriental rugs are created by skilled artisans using hand-spun wool or silk yarns, while Chinese imitations use synthetic fibers that approximate the look of authentic materials but don't provide quite as much luxury to your space. These rugs are usually more affordable but are not as durable or beautiful. Authentic oriental rugs are very durable and last for generations. Although Chinese-made rugs can imitate the look of an authentic oriental rug, they usually do not use silk or wool fibers but rather synthetic ones that give them a similar appearance at first glance, yet their durability is inferior to real artisan-crafted pieces; additionally, authentic materials are also much more luxurious than imitation ones.

2. Is the Persian rug value higher than that of other oriental rugs?

The Persian rug's value is higher than that of other oriental rugs because they are hand-woven by expert craftspeople using the highest quality materials. Authentic Persian rugs have been used for centuries in homes across Europe and Asia, so there are many antique pieces available on the market today which can be extremely valuable if the pristine condition has been maintained. A value of a Persian rug is determined by the materials that go into it, as well as how much wear and tear has been done to it. And other oriental rugs are not as old, nor are they made with the same attention to detail that Persian rugs are.

3. Where can I buy oriental rugs from?

You can buy oriental rugs from many places, including retail stores, malls, and shopping centers. These rugs are also available online, and there are many websites that offer them for sale. These rugs are available for purchase at many different price points depending on the materials that they are made from and how much wear and tear has been done to them. Another place you can buy oriental rugs is in antique stores or second-hand shops. These rugs may not be new, but if they have been well maintained then their condition will still be. Buying oriental rugs can be a great way to decorate and upgrade your home. These rugs are perfect for all kinds of different styles, including traditional and modern. The oriental rug cost and availability depend on the materials that they are made from and how much wear and tear has been done to them. You can purchase oriental rugs at many different price points depending on what kind of material the rug is made out of, as well as any damage or wear it may have experienced over time. If you're interested in buying a new

4. Are modern oriental rugs made of natural dyes

Modern oriental rugs are not always made of natural dyes, but they can be. There are modern oriental rugs that have been dyed with synthetic materials rather than being naturally dyed from plant or animal sources. These days most hands knotted oriental rugs are made through the use of modern dyes, but they can also be made from natural materials. If you're looking for a rug with traditional oriental colors and patterns it's best to purchase one that is naturally dyed using plant or animal sources. Natural dye oriental rugs are known for their vibrant color schemes and exceptional design work. They have been traditionally hand. Natural dyes are known for producing colors that are more vibrant than modern dyes. The use of natural dye also produces exquisite patterns, hues, and shades that can't be matched by synthetic or machine-made materials. With proper care, a naturally dyed oriental rug will last you many years, but the color schemes may eventually fade over time if not properly cared for.

5. What is the best way to care for oriental rugs?

The best way to care for oriental rugs is to vacuum them regularly. Oriental rugs are made from delicate materials, so it's important for you not to use a high-powered suction on your rug as this can damage the fibers and fabric of your rug over time. Oriental rugs should also be professionally cleaned twice per year to ensure they stay in good condition. The cleaning of these rugs is done. The best quality of oriental rugs is the ones that are made from wool.

6. Does an oriental rug enhance your home decoration?

Oriental rugs are available in a variety of different sizes, styles, and colors. They are very versatile when it comes to home decoration, making them one of the most popular additions to any room or space today. These rugs are a combination of beauty and functionality, making them a wonderful addition to your home. This rug is a must-have for anyone who is looking for a wonderful piece of art to round out the design. Moreover, if you are purchasing these rugs then you must remember that they require proper maintenance.

Thank you for visiting RugKnots online carpet store! We hope that this oriental rug: A buyer's guide was helpful for you. If you have any queries that aren't answered in this post, please let us know in the comments or by email. I hope you enjoyed our blog and that we were able to answer any questions you had! For more information please email us at info@rugknots.com or call us at (240) 252-5452. We are happy to answer your questions!