Reviewing Karastan Area Rugs: A Brief History

Introduction to Karastan Area Rugs

Karastan Area Rugs are some of the most popular, and most expensive, rugs of any kind that can be bought be the general public. Depending on design and make, the average price of these rugs can vary anywhere from $1-4,000 each. At first glance that might seem to be crazy to a lot of people, but the Karastan company takes a lot of pride in their work, and has been seen as being on the forefront of amazing quality since 1928, when the very first Karastan area rug was produced. Karastan rugs (and to a lesser extent, carpets) have become something of a status symbol for the rich and luxurious. That said, these aren’t popular solely based on reputation alone. Many of the the most popular designs are intricate, beautiful, and appear to have the intense detail of an actual hand woven rug. Because of all these facts, it’s not that much of a surprise that some of the more popular Karastan area rugs would sell for such high prices.

If you’re looking for a cheap area rug, then this probably isn’t the company you should be looking at. If you have the disposable income to live the life of luxury, then maybe a beautiful Karastan area rug is just the ticket.

A Brief History of Karastan Area Rugs

The first modern Karastan area rug was produced on April 8, 1928, and was the result of a new advancement in technology that allowed Marshall Field, a textile manufacturer, to use a loom to produce area rugs that appeared to be hand woven.  The idea was to be able to produce machine made area rugs that could rival hand made rugs in quality, design, durability, and beauty.  In this quest, Karastan succeeded admiralably as Karastan area rugs are still some of the most sought after rugs in the world.

The Karastan rugs made a big impression at some early World Fairs, as well, pretty much guaranteeing that the quality product made by Marshall Field would become famous and soon gain a reputation that set it up to eventually become an elite line of area rugs.  Its impossible to know for sure, but it’s a safe bet that in 1928 there was no idea that the Karastan area rugs would eventually cost up to $4,000 a piece brand new.

What might be a pleasant surprise to individuals looking at these beautiful rugs is that they’re not just built for looks – many of the original Karastan area rugs woven in 1928 are still in fairly decent usable shape even today.  These rugs can take a beating, and are designed to be able to last a very long time if they are cleaned and taken care of properly.

The history of Karastan area rugs starts with a dedication to make machine woven rugs just as beautiful and durable as their hand made counterparts, and that commitment has carried this company into the juggernaut that they are today.

More on Karastan Rugs & Carpeting

While many things have changed over the years, including the technology used to manufacture Karastan rugs and carpeting, the high quality of these pieces of home decor remains unchallenged. The company website still offers dozens of beautiful designs which all mimic both the design of amazing Oriental rugs, but also mimics the high quality that was often associated with hand woven rugs from the Far East. The material used for modern versions is only the best wool available, and that means New Zealand wool all the way. Using the highest quality of raw materials helps to assure that the rugs and carpeting produced are also high quality upon being created and finished. Think of New Zealand wool as being the equivalent of Egyptian Cotton in the olden days.

These rugs have been produced since 1928 and at a World Fair just a few years after were referred to as amazing “America Wonder Rugs.” It’s not hard to see why these were so popular and it’s important to note that the sheer amount of warranties that come with these carpets is truly remarkable. In an age where it seems like more and more companies are providing crappy products or are trying to get cheap it’s nice to see a few high quality companies like Karastan making the very high standard rugs that are still at the very top of the carpet industry.

How to Clean a Karastan Rug

If you’re willing to spend the kind of money you’ll need to drop in order to buy a Karastan area rug, then you had definitely better want to take care of it. These rugs are designed to be durable, and so you can clean them on a normal schedule without worry of wear. In fact, the rugs are likely to last longer if they are cleaned on a frequent basis.  This is why you want to learn how to clean a Karastan area rug.

The general reccomendation is that if the rug is in a high traffic area, then you should look at vaccuming 2-3 times a week. If the rug is in a lower foot traffic area, you might be able to get away with once a week depending on just how much traffic there really is.

If there is something like a spill, it’s probably a good idea to get your Karastan area rug professionally cleaned. A Karastan rug is a big time investment, so you will want to make sure that it is cleaned right so as to avoid damage and to help keep your rug as pristine as possible. If you’re willing to put that much money into a beautiful work of art like a Karastan area rug, then you should be fine with protecting that investment with the best cleaning available!

Karastan Rugs Come in an Amazing Variety

One of the things that really amazes many modern consumers is just how large a variety of different Karastan area rugs actually exist. In fact, there is even technology that allows an individual consumer to work with a designer to get a design that is somewhat custom made to their tastes. The ability of modern computer technology along with the Karastan Rug Company’s dedication to high quality and efficient manufacturing techniques helps to keep this company extremely relevant and even top of the line while many other companies producing area rugs have come and gone.

Hopefully this hub has also given you a great sense of just how many different options there are. Looking at Amazon.com alone, you can find dozens and dozens of selections and this just begins to scratch the surface of all there is to offer. With this many high level choices it’s not hard at all to see why the Karastan Rugs are considered among the highest class out there and why they also get to charge premium prices for absolutely amazing rugs that will get the attention of anyone who knows anything at all about home decor.  So if you haven’t taken a glance at these amazing elegant rugs then read on and do so and take a look at place’s like Jerry’s Online Karastan Area Rug Store for a chance to buy these amazing pieces of home decor!

So What’s the Future of Karastan Carpeting?

A lot of this hub has talked about the past of Karastan rugs, and some sections have even talked about the present state of the company, but not much has been talked about in regards to the future. While the future is always hard to predict, as long as Karastan keeps up their extremely high quality combined with innovative manufacturing techniques then no one is likely to overtake them. When it comes to old fashioned quality with new sate of the art manufacturing technolgoy, you can’t beat the Karastan company.

They’re high end, that’s for sure. So it’s important to understand that you don’t go to Karastan in order to find an inexpensive or easily affordable rug. This is where you go to get a high quality top of the line piece that you’re willing to spend a lot of extra cash on.  However, doing so is still going to be a whole lot more of a better deal than springing the money for a real antique Oriental rug.

Looking at Inexpensive Area Rugs

Inexpensive area rugs are a great alternative to big, expensive, area rugs. You would also be surprised by the high quality area rugs you can get for a low price. They may not have the high quality and long-term durability as the most expensive rugs have, but they are great for families with kids, and people who know there rugs are going to take abuse. Why would pet owners spend a lot of money on a rug that could get ruined? Inexpensive area rugs are great alternatives to other rugs that cost a lot of money. You are still going to be able to pick an area rug that fits the décor of your home, as well a choose from a wide variety of styles, colors, and materials. This article should give you some valuable information, making picking out your next inexpensive area rug much easier.

Where to Find Inexpensive Area Rugs

The best place for you to look for inexpensive areas rugs at is probably on the internet. The internet is going to give you many different options when shopping for area rugs. You are going to be able to compare prices at many different stores, and compare the different types of rugs, hopefully finding the right type of rug for you. Stores like Amazon, E bay, and Overstock.com are going to have a wide selection of inexpensive area rugs to choose from.

Also, do not forget to check out websites for local vendors, and discount factory outlet stores. These places should have inexpensive area rugs for sale, and should be easy to get shipped to your home. Shipping costs are going to be a little extra, so if you know a nearby store that sells rugs, I would start there than compare prices online.

The major problem that comes from online shopping, is not being able to see the product first hand. It can be hard to make sure you are getting exactly what you thought you were getting. So make sure there is a return policy in case you are unhappy.

Other Options to Find Inexpensive Area Rugs

There are a few other creative ways to try and find inexpensive area rugs. For example, do you have a local auction house? Often you will be able to find some nice area rugs that will go for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one. There might be some slight usage damage, so make sure you investigate the rug before you decide to buy it. Auctions might have a small selection, so finding the right rug can be difficult.

You can also check the local classified adds and second hand stores. You never know what you might find, and a great rug really adds a lot to a room. Garage sales and estate sales are also a perfect opportunity to look for inexpensive area rugs

Things to Remember When Buying any Rug

There are somethings you just need to remember when buying any type of rug, including expensive and inexpensive rugs. Know what type of material you want, and what the advantages are. Natural bamboo rugs and things of that nature are environmentally friendly, but are not going to be cheap. Synthetic fiber rugs are cheaper, relatively durable, and are normally stain resistant. Wool rugs are considered very good rugs, but a little more expensive, but give a great natural look.

You are also going to want to decide on the color and pattern you want. If you cannot find the right color and pattern combination cheap, than you might want to think about spending a little more money. Matching the color pattern and decoration pattern of your home can be important. You probably do not want to just through any rug into your home, try and match color scheme and decorating patterns.

Decorating Tips

Inexpensive area rugs are great ways to save some money and add great patterns and colors to your home. Here is just a few basic tips that you can follow, or ignore and go with your own style.

First of all, matching color is important. If you want a bold room, have a bold colored area rug to add to that boldness. Think about colors like blue, red, black, and darker tones. If you want a lighter rug that just flows with the room and is not a focal point, go with earth tones and lighter colors. The same thing should be decided with patterned rugs, do you want a strong visual pattern, or a less extreme type of pattern.

Also, area rugs are great underneath furniture. Using inexpensive area rugs under tables, chairs, and coffee tables is a great way to add a great look to your home. Just make sure the rugs are big enough to support the furniture, so they are not hanging off. Also use area rugs as a way to break up the monotony of wood floors, or one type of carpet. They are perfect for that.

Conclusion

Using inexpensive area rugs as a way to highlight your home is a great idea. You can still find high quality materials at a low price, and use those area rugs as a way to decorate your home. Knowing where to find inexpensive area rugs, as well as knowing what to look for when purchasing is important to know. Remember what benefits different materials have, as well as what you want your rug to do in your home, and you should be able to find the perfect inexpensive area rug.

Does Shape Matter? Reviewing Round Area Rugs

An Introduction to Round Area Rugs

It is pretty funny how often people do not take shape into consideration when decorating a room.  Round area rugs are the perfect way to add another dimension to a room.  Instead of just focusing on color, size, and pattern, make sure you take shape into consideration when buying an area rug.  For clarification purposes only, I did want to mention that when discussing area rugs, this article is talking about any rug that does not cover the entire floor, but only a small space.  A rug is a perfect way to add other dimensions to a room; it can add color or different types of patterns, and a rug can really draw a person’s attention to that area of the room.  What a round area rug does is also create a different shape to the room.  The round area rug will counter the pattern of the carpet or the floor, creating an area where a person’s attention is immediately drawn to.  A round area rug is the perfect solution to the boring, one colored, rectangle area rug.

The Basics of Round Area Rugs

Round area rugs are going to come in many different colors, sizes, materials, and so forth.  Deciding on what is the best option for you is somewhat of a personal choice.  Once of the best things to do with a round area rug, or any rug for that matter, is to use them to add depth and decoration to your floor.  These especially look great if you place a round area rug on a hardwood floor, because it adds so much value to that floor.

Solid Color Rug or Pattern Rug?

Round area rugs come in many different designs, including patterns and solid colors.  Choosing between patterns and solid colors can be difficult.  A rug that has a pattern on it can draw more attention to the rug, and it also adds extra character to the room.  It can be a little more difficult to match up with the rest of the furniture in that room however.

Solid rugs, depending on how dark the color is, can also do a lot for a room.  Solid patterns are easier to match with the rest of the room’s decorations.  Depending on how bold of a choice you make on the color, a solid colored round area rug can really intensify the color pattern and create an “oh wow” moment for guests who come into the room.

Color or pattern of your rug is going to be a personal choice, and my best advice for you is to match it up with the rest of the decor in that room.  If you like to take some chances and have bold patterns, than look at solid colored or pattern rugs.

Different Materials for your Rug

Round area rugs come in many different types of materials, including polypropylene, wool, cotton, jute, and nylon.  Each material has advantages and disadvantages.  For example any synthetic fibered (polypropylene, nylon) are going to be able to take a beating and still keep their beauty.  This is perfect for high traffic areas, or homes with kids.  Wool gives a naturally beautiful look to your home.  If you are big into going green, jute, sea grass, or bamboo rugs are naturally made and friendly on the environment, but do not last as long as the synthetic fibers.

Round area rugs are usually made with dependable, strong materials.  This is because they are often put into an area of the home where they are going to be walked on, and used often.  This really makes choosing round area rugs a good idea for any place in the home that receives a lot of traffic.

Where in my room should it go?

When trying to figure out the best spot for a round area rug, think about if you want it to be a focal point of the room, or just another piece of decoration.  If you want it to be a focal point, put it somewhere by itself, not covered up by furniture.   This will really draw people’s eyes to it, and should do a great job maximizing the potential of a room.  If you do not want it to be a focal point of a room, than covering it up with furniture, or putting it in a crowded area is not a bad idea.

Conclusion

Using round area rugs in your home as a decoration, or for practical purposes, is a great idea.  Round area rugs really create a look you do not get with normal rectangle rugs, and can be a big bonus when decorating your home.  Choosing the right rug for you is going to depend on color, pattern, and material preference, but you should be able to find the right rug for you.  Just remember, it is your home that you are going to be living in, so when choosing between colors, and patterns, find something you like and go with it.

What Are Bamboo Style Area Rugs?

A Bamboo area rug is a perfect rug for people who are looking at creating a great look in their home, but also want to create that look with environmentally safe materials. A Bamboo area rug adds a great look to your home or office, and are a perfect decoration. Many people believe that bamboo area rugs are all the same, but they do come in many different shapes, sizes, patterns, and shades of color. This allows for much more flexibility when decorating your home. The big bonus of choosing a bamboo area rug is that it is going to give off a very earthy tone to your home, as well as a very earthy feel. This is perfect for homes that have a lot of wood floors, or wood decorations. This article is going to be a basic guide on bamboo area rugs. I hope to explain some of the different types of bamboo area rugs, show some of the advantages of a bamboo area rug, and hopefully give you all the important information, making choosing the right bamboo rug easier for you.

The Basics of a Bamboo Area Rug

Here is some of the basic information that well be useful in learning about bamboo area rugs. Most bamboo area rugs are made in China, and are obviously made from bamboo plants. Bamboo plants grow very quickly, as much as 10 ft. a year, and can be harvested quite frequently. It does take some time for the harvested shoots to grow back, normally around five years. Bamboo is very common in many parts of Asia.

To make the area rugs bamboo shoots are harvested, and turned into the rug look you want. There is a lot of flexibility when it comes to working with bamboo, so you will be surprised by the different types of rugs available to people.

Colors and Patterns

Bamboo area rugs do come in many different shades of colors. The bamboo can be dyed to give some different color options, but most of the time, those options are more earthy tones. Common colors for bamboo rugs include, natural bamboo color, brown, green, red, and even in some cases, blues. Personally, I enjoy the more earthy tones, and the look that brings into a home.

Bamboo area rugs, just like other types of rugs, can come in different patterns. These patterns are stamped onto the bamboo, and should not fade or wear overtime. This gives you plenty of color and pattern looks that you should be able to match with the decoration pattern of your home.

Different Styles of Rugs

Just like other types of area rugs, bamboo rugs come in many different styles as well. Besides being able to pick the color and pattern you want, you will also be able to pick the shape. Bamboo is a flexible material, and can be made into square, oval, and round area rugs. This allows the buyer to pick the right shape of rug, color of rug, and pattern of rug for the home.

One of the most popular types of rugs ever created was shag carpet. Believe it or not, there is a variation of the shag style in bamboo. How they do this is add some other natural elements to the bamboo, such as cotton, and can create a weave of bamboo and cotton. These weaves are all attached together, giving the carpet that shag style.

Why Choose a Bamboo Area Rug?

There are certainly a few good reasons why you should choose a bamboo area rug over other materials. Probably the most popular reason right now, is the going “green” process everyone has been talking about. Bamboo is a natural material, that does not harm the environment in the manufacturing process. Removing bamboo from the environment is also seen as acceptable, because the shoots will grow back not causing environmental damage. Bamboo is also considered easy on the environment when it comes to disposal, since it can break down naturally.

Bamboo is also not made with different types of chemicals. This means the material is considered hypoallergenic making it a popular choice for families with small kids and people with health problems. The dyes used on bamboo rugs should also be natural dyes, making them nontoxic. All and all, bamboo area rugs are considered very nature friendly.

Taking Care of a Bamboo Rug

There are somethings that need to be noted when you are taken care of a bamboo rug. Since bamboo is a natural material, it is not recommended that chemical cleaners and things of that nature be used on the bamboo. The proper clean up technique is using a soft mop, or a damp cloth, to clean the material with warm soapy water. You then need to let the rug air out and dry.

The biggest concern for families is often will the rug be durable enough to handle spills and abuse from kids and family members. When it comes to spills, there can be a few issues. Bamboo rugs are suppose to be treated to prevent mold and mildew, but in the case of spills, you are going to have to make sure to wipe down the rug and floor underneath, and let them air dry. This should keep anything from happening to your rug, but you need to make sure this is done after every spill.

Bamboo is pretty durable when it comes to natural wear and tear. It is not as durable as some of the synthetic materials commonly used to make rugs, but the other advantages of bamboo normally outweigh the synthetic materials.

Conclusion

I think there are numerous reasons why you should consider buying a bamboo area rug instead of rugs made out of other materials. For starters, I really like the natural look that bamboo rugs bring to the table. It fits in with a lot of different styles of home decorating. You also get the added advantages of taken care of the environment and having a safe natural materials in your home. Bamboo area rugs still present very durable rugs and are relatively easy to take care of. So next time you are choosing a new area rug for you home, think about going “green” and choosing bamboo.

Contemporary Area Rugs Review

Contemporary area rugs have always been popular, but they continue to gain popularity as more and more modern area rugs can be made in ways that give them the appearance and old beauty of antique area rugs. There are many different companies that produce area rugs, and a quality contemporary area rug can’t be underestimated in its ability to complete and improve a home decor. From the door entry to the middle of the living room carpet, a good contemporary area rug can work for any part of the house.

There are many reasons that these rugs are so popular. A good design can add a touch of elegance, while even a heavily used area rug can help protect hardwood floors at the door while still maintaining a level of elegance. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors and you should be able to find a design that works perfectly for you. Contemporary area rugs are particularly effective in helping to bring together the decor of heavily wood based homes with hardwood floors.

Area rugs can range from inexpensive basic area rugs to expensive and impressive Karastan area rugs which are renowned for being elegant and upper class.  Whatever your stylistic needs, there are area rugs that can provide everything you need.

Different Types of Area Rugs
There are many different types of area rugs. This doesn’t just include age, like the difference between modern area rugs and antique area rugs. From braided rugs to expensive Karastan area rugs to the cheap little kiddie rugs, there is a vast selection when it comes to selecting the right rug for room and home decor.

Karastan area rugs, for example, are known for being very elegant machine made rugs that have the charm and intricacy of hand crafted stitching. These tend to be very expensive rugs, but are renowned for their elegance. That said, there are plenty of quality rugs that are beautiful and a whole lot cheaper.

A good wool area rug can often be all you need in order to make a room look its best.  And if you like something that reminds you a little more of yesteryear, believe it or not there are some very modern versions of shag area rugs that are becoming increasingly popular.

Some Common Area Rugs
Wool area rugs are some of the most common types of area rugs around.  Wool is a useful resource that is sturdy, reliable, and can be woven into beautiful patterns that bring out the best.  Wool has been considered valuable for many centuries, all the way back to Biblical times.  Because of this it makes sense that wool area rugs would be some of the most popular versions around.

It helps that these types of rugs a come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes that help to fit them into virtually any room decor.  Wool also remains cheaper and more durable than many of the fake plastics and factory made alternatives that simply don’t hold up against a side by side comparison.  Even beyond this, there are other reasons why wool remains so popular.

• Wool rugs tend to be very easy to clean and maintain
• These are durable and can last for many years, or even decades with the proper maintenance
• They are relatively inexpensive compared to many similar models made of different fabrics or materials
• Many wool rugs have absolutely beautiful designs

As stated before, these are a just few of many reasons that wool rugs remain popular even with so many other options.  Beyond this, area rugs are very easy ways to touch up even the barest of apartments.  As “The Dude” noted in the Coen Brothers movie classic, The Big Lebowski, “That rug really tied the room together.”

Kids’ Area Rugs
One of the neater ideas around area rugs are small children’s area rugs, many of which have designs based around Disney movies, other cartoon characters, or the classic dinosaurs and race cars that kids are sure to love. Kids area rugs tend to be smaller and more decorative, built more for enjoyment than for actually lasting over a long period of use.

This doesn’t mean that these rugs can’t last a long time: like any well woven or well designed rugs, these can also be passed from generation to generation if they are cared for correctly.  Many of this rugs are less expensive, and the affordability is often a big factor in making these a part of any young child’s room.

Area Rugs: General Conclusion
I hope you found this hub on contemporary area rugs useful. While some people may prefer antique area rugs, it seems a waste of money considering many modern ones look just as beautiful and are designed to last. There are many great options out there regardless of your specific preferences or needs, and hopefully this page provided some helpful information for the next time you need to make a decision.

Area rugs are sure to remain popular for years to come. They’ve been popular for centuries, and as far as an inexpensive and easy way to help any home decoration project, you really can’t beat the flexibility that these fantastic rugs can offer.

All About Wool Area Rugs Overview

If you’re looking to buy a wool rug, then you’re making a pretty solid choice. There’s a reason that wool has been used in all manners of clothing and textiles for years. Inexpensive, reliable, and sturdy, a good wool area rug is one that can last for years and years when properly taken care of.

Wool is a natural fiber, which is a definite positive in a world that understands the importance of being environmentally friendly. Wool is biodegradable because of that, and there are many advantages that a wool area rug is going to have against rugs made from other materials. One of the obvious benefits is that wool tends to keep its appearance for a longer period of time than other fabrics.  Aside from this, wool also has a tendency to absorb moisture, which makes it more flame resistant than many other area rugs because of the moisture that gets trapped in the fibers.

Just because a rug is made of wool doesn’t mean it can’t also be fancy or exquisite, as well.  For example, Karastan area rugs are not only made of wool, but they are fantastic high quality rugs that are not only known for lasting for decades, but are known for a beauty that can normally only be found in hand woven rugs.  On the other hand, if you don’t want to drop several thousand dollars on a single area rug, then there are many other wool area rug designs that can fit into whatever your actual price range is.

There are many other benefits to wool rugs.  They are easy to clean, and also more naturally resistant to absorbing normal dirt and allergens.  Any time a rug in a high traffic area is easier to clean and takes less work to maintain, that’s definitely a good deal and something worth considering when you’re looking to buy.  There are many wool rugs that have lasted for decades, so if you’re looking for that little extra decor for the home, consider the wool area rugs that might be available to suit your needs.

More on Wool Area Rugs
One of the easiest ways to decorate and add to a home’s decor is to use wool area rugs. Wool area rugs can be used in almost any room of the house and come in a huge variety of colors, designs, and shapes. There are wool rugs specifically designed for bathrooms, others for porches, while others are rugs that can be set down in carpeted rooms to add a little extra something that might be otherwise missing.

The huge variety of options that come with wool area rugs are part of the reason why all of them are so popular. When there is a wool area rug for every room, every taste in color and design, and a match for every decor, it’s not hard to see why these are so wildly popular. That said, you need to make sure that the specific rugs you choose are a perfect match for the individual rooms, styles, and other specifics that have to be taken into consideration. You don’t want to spend $1,000 on a Karastan wool area rug when there was a better $400 wool rug that might have fit in better with the decor choices you were looking for.

So do your homework, look around and compare prices at various online area rugs stores, and choose the wool area rug that works best for you!

Cleaning Wool Area Rugs
Cleaning a wool rug isn’t as hard as many people might think. Wool area rugs are known for their solid construction and their durability. Another bonus is that these rugs also tend to be fairly easy to clean compared to many of their competitors.

First of all, you’re always good vacuuming a wool area rug in order to clean it up. Those vacuums that shampoo then vacuum can also be a very useful tool in cleaning your wool rug. If this is beyond the normal tidying up and you want to really clean a wool rug that maybe has gone too long without a deep cleaning, then there are still several easy steps to take that will help you to easily clean up your wool area rug.

The next step will be to shake the rug outdoors to remove all the excess dust and dander that is on top. Shake all of this off outside and then vacuum the wool rug. This is all part of a normal cleaning, but it should also be the first part of a deeper cleaning, as well. Some wool rugs have specific instructions to dry clean, but with most you can use a sponge with some soapy water. The key is to never scrub a rug – but to spot press it, and dry the same way.

If you have any doubts, there are plenty of professional cleaners who will be more than happy to do the work to make that wool area rug clean as new. There are also many resources that tell how to clean specific types of wool rugs, like this article on how to clean Karastan area rugs.

5 Reasons People Love Wool Area Rugs
There are many reasons why wool rugs of any kind are often very popular among consumers. In fact, these rugs have long been popular for centuries as wool is a strong material that is also easy to use and has a lot of positive attributes. It wouldn’t be possible to list all the reasons in this section why wool area rugs are such a popular choice compared to other materials (as well as purely synthetic fibers), but I will list five.

  1. Wool lasts for a very long time if it is properly taken care of.  Done correctly, a good wool rug can last for years, even decades.
  2. Wool is naturally fire retardant.  Wool fibers have a tendency to absorb moisture, which means those fibers are very hard to set on fire, making wool a great choice for rugs.
  3. Wool tends to be naturally stain resistant.  This doesn’t mean that a wool area rug won’t stain, but it’s harder to stain than many other fibers, which will absorb anything.
  4. Wool is easy to maintain.  Since it’s stain resistant, fire resistant, and strong, wool can take a beating and be cleaned with a normal vacuum, helping to maintain it.
  5. Cheap & Pretty.  Wool area rugs can be attractive and cheap.  What more can you ask for?

Wool Area Rugs in Conclusion
There are many pros to deciding on wool area rugs as opposed to other types, and hopefully this page has helped explain why wool is still considered a top-notch option when it comes to quality rugs to improve home decor. Wool area rugs are strong, tend to be naturally fire retardant, easy to clean and maintain, & the designs can still be beautiful. In fact, there are many expensive wool rugs that appear hand woven and have beautiful Asiatic like designs (take a look at Karastan area rugs for an idea of what I mean), or some people just love shaggy wool area rugs.

The handiness of wool rugs pretty much insures that these are going to remain popular for many years to come, and rightfully so.  A good wool area rug is a quality bit of decor that can spice up any home or apartment.

More on Shag Area Rugs

Introduction to Shag Area Rugs

Shag area rugs might often be grouped in with shag carpeting as a kamp joke of 1970s style best left forgotten along with disco balls and giant collared shirts, but contrary to the jokes and look of shag in spoof movies, shag area rugs remain very popular, and for good reason. Shag rugs are extremely comfortable, come in a wide variety of colors, and generally look good and feel great. We’re not talking about a 1970s bright red shag carpeting that lined a player’s van, but a really solid and good looking design that many consumers find appealing – not to mention very affordable. Finding the right area rug for a room or a home can be a very big deal, especially when thinking about the aesthetics of any living environment. There are several shag area rug photos just a little bit further down this page that further confirm that a shag rug can be very stylish and fit in well with almost any room’s aesthetic goals.

All About Shag Area Rugs

There’s no denying it: shag carpeting and shag area rugs definitely hit a high point in popularity in the mid to late 1960s and continuing into the 1970s. While a lot of people only think of shag as a retro thought from those decades, not all shag carpeting or shag area rugs are the bright yellows, neon greens, or bright reds that give shag carpeting its unfair reputation among some as some kemp mistake of a bygone area. But shag area rugs are extremely comfortable, and come in all the white, gray, black, or other normal colors that one could want. In addition to this, shag carpeting is making a come back because it is relatively inexpensive, very comfortable, and comes in designs that can work to beautifully enhance any aesthetic.

There are many different types of shag area rugs, and shag rugging can be made from a wide variety of materials, including: acrylic, cotton, nylon, or other synthetic fibers. This variety allows for a great deal of freedom in styles, make up, and the other considerations that can limit the appeal of rugs. Shag area rugs have this variety, and there are some cheap shag rugs, but there are also some very elegant and more expensive shag area rugs.

Modern shag rugs tend to be made of a “long pile” and are named because they are shaggy and tend to have a lot more movement and volume to them than other models of rugs and/or carpets.  If you’re looking for an area rug and haven’t considered shag, maybe now is the time to take a second look and see the variety of comfort that shag has to offer.

Other Area Rug Information

Shag area rugs are among the most popular, and the most sought after of all area rugs. While this could change, it shows how despite being decades away from their “hey day” these still remain popular. Shag might not be right for everyone, but most consumers shouldn’t be so quick to dismiss these great styles for something more conventional like wool area rugs or for the ever expensive and “stylish” karastan area rugs.

Shag can often be looked down upon but this really isn’t fair as shag area rugs, as well as truly good shag carpeting, can look just as good as any other type. There is an amazing array and range of area rugs and the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming for many individuals. That said, this shouldn’t be a problem. Having more choices also means there is more of a chance of finding a particularly good design or style of area rug that meets your specific home decor needs.

Area rugs have been around in some form or another for literally many centuries, and a well made and maintained area rug is often something that can be passed on from generation to generation.  Even if that’s not the intention, you can always count on a classic movie line to keep area rugs relevant: “That rug really tied the room together.”

A Conclusion on Shag Throw Rugs

Shag area rugs, also still referred to as shag throw rugs, remain wildly popular today and are likely to remain that way in the future. Most of the neon greens and bright red shag of the sixties and seventies might be out of the main stream, but quality shag area rugs can really bring the right look and comfort level to a hallway or a living room. Especially on hardwood floors, shag area rugs can really help to enhance the aesthetics of a home and enhance the beauty to any room or any part of a home.

Shag area rugs aren’t just pieces of retro history, but they are a legitimate and quality way of really sprucing up the home decor.  As the pictures throughout this hub have shown, if you know what you want and look hard enough, there is a huge variety of shag area rugs that are there to meet your needs – so take a look around and choose the one that meets all your needs!

If you’re interested in seeing some of what’s available, you can check out some popular models at this online shag area rug Amazon store.

Outdoor Rug Types and Styles

An outdoor rug can add great color to any porch, patio or deck instantly. There are lots of materials to choose from to put the finishing touches on any look, whether it is practical, casual or downright luxurious and fancy. An outdoor space that means enough to you to put an outdoor rug down on should be treated like an extra room. If all that extra space needs is something practical, like keeping the outdoor elements outside, then a simple textured rug will do the trick.

Any outdoor rug that is going to see a lot of traffic is going to have to be skid proof. Many small ones meant to be doormats already come textured this way, but some more expensive, beautifully patterned rugs will required that you purchase an additional rug pad. Do not skimp on these pads, they can make the difference between getting up from a chair and walking somewhere to getting up and slipping head-first unto the concrete.

Many are made out of all-weather materials, while some are simply coated with weather-proof finishes. You will be able to tell by the sheen of the material and its coarseness. A coarse outdoor rug is typically made out of natural fibers such as those typically used to weave nautical ropes. Many colored outdoor rugs however are made out of man made polyester materials, which have been chemically formulated to be water and mildew resistant.

The longest lasting investment is a rug that is reversible. Exactly the same on both sides, all that has to be done to double the lifetime is to flip it over. These styles are often plainer and may not offer ornate styles you may be looking for. The threads are typically braided in this style, so all they need is a rug pad to ensure safety. They may not be the focal point of an outdoor space, but they certainly add the final touch to a casual look and last a very long time.

Realize that in most situations, intricately patterned rugs are machine made. Meanwhile, simpler handmade outdoor rugs add rustic character and can be considered works of art. Being educated on the options available can make deciding on the right one a less painful experience.

Looking at Shag Area Rugs

Shag area rugs are attractive additions to the home. Many people will buy these rugs to decorate their home or place of business. Shag rugs come in a variety of colors and styles. They are rugs that are similar to shag carpeting with long piles in the rug itself. Shag rugs originated as early as the 5th century, and were originally sheepskin rugs known as Flokati rugs.They originated in Greece, since Greeks shepherds needed warm rugs during the cold winters. They were dyed any color that the owner wished them to be.

Modern day shag rugs also have various lengths of the yarn and fibers. There are several ways to use these rugs in your home. Shag rugs are available in all colors, shapes and styles and prices. These rugs tend to be a bit more expensive than other floor rugs, but their comfort and durability make them worth the extra cost as far as most consumers are concerned. They are generally thick and comfortable. Shag rugs are a good way to warm up a hardwood floor, and make it comfortable to walk on in bare feet or they can add a splash of color to a room. They are relatively easy to clean, and are popular with many people due to their variety, shape and texture.
One of the more popular style of shag rugs would be the sheepskin style. Everyone is familiar with these types of rugs as they are popular almost everywhere. Sheepskin rugs are the classic ,white rugs that offer a rustic look and are especially popular in lodges and cabins.

Other types of shag area rugs that are quite well received are the pile shag rugs in many different lengths, colors and styles. These are often found and used as accent rugs in the home or office. They have been a popular decorating accessory for a number of years. Shag area rugs are a great addition to any home. Many people use these rugs for stunning room accents. There are so many types and varieties of shag rugs that’s what makes them so popular and long lasting. Shag rugs can be found online and in brick and mortar stores and in many price ranges. Shag area rugs will probably never go out of style.

What Are Braided Area Rugs?

The Braided Rug: Stands the Test of Time

Looking back through history, one of the rugs that has stood up to the test of time is the braided rug. It was first created by the Egyptians, used by the pilgrims, and is now seen in many modern homes. A braided rug was, and still will be for time to come, the most cost-effective way to add warmth and comfort to any room’s floor.There are many different types and styles of braided rugs, which range from round, to rectangle or square, and come in all different colors, fabrics, and sizes. The most popular and yet the easiest to make would be the oval braided rug. To make this style of rug you will need many long strips of the same color fabric cut into four-inch wide strands, a sewing needle, thread (or a sewing machine,) and a clamp.

Start by taking three strands of fabric and tie a knot at the top. Clamp the strands above the knot to a table top, and begin a simple three strand braid, moving the clamp down to keep the braid in place while working. Once the end of the fabric is reached, either sew by hand or machine another piece of fabric to each of the three strands to lengthen the braid. Occasionally curl the braid starting from the center into an oval shape to see if the desired size has been reached. If a good size has been reached, uncurl the braid and start to hand sew each row of the braid to the previous so that the rug stays together. Make sure to start the thread inside the braid, so it will not be seen on either side of the rug. Once comfortable with the basics try adding more colors.

Cleaning a braided rug has always been one of the simplest tasks to do. It can be vacuumed, spot cleaned, and even thrown into the washing machine with cold water on a gentle cycle.

If the task of making a braided rug seems daunting, or if there is not enough time in the day to accomplish one, look no further than the nearest department or discount retail store. At these stores you will find an already assembled rug that will add to your decor, is easy to clean, and will stand up to the test of time.