A Consumer's Guide to Oriental Rug Care

Area rugs have gained significant market share over the past decade. As more consumers remove carpeting in favor of hard surfaces such as wood, ceramic tile, laminates, and stone, rug ownership in the US has skyrocketed. Ken Snow, President of The Original Hagopian, a flooring and rug retailer and cleaning company in Michigan says: "We sell and maintain carpet, wood, laminate flooring, and Area rugs. We've noticed a proportional increase in rug sales and a general decline in wall-to-wall carpet sales over the past decade." Snow continues: "Consumers love the beauty and resilience of hard floors, but still want aesthetic contrast in color and texture as well as a bit of warmth and softness under their feet. Because of these needs, area rugs are the perfect companion to hard flooring surfaces."

Considerations

With more rugs in homes and businesses, cleaning and maintaining them has become a growing concern amongst consumers. Before delving into proper care, it's important to identify the basic construction of the rug. There are two main categories of rugs: Synthetic and Natural. There are also rugs which are created with both synthetic and natural materials and these are referred to as "Blends". Cleaning and caring for synthetic rugs is very similar to Cleaning and caring for installed carpet, so for purposes of this Consumer's Guide to Oriental rug care we'll stick with Oriental-style rugs constructed of natural materials.

When discussing synthetic and natural rugs, it's important to understand that the face fibers (the "up" side of the rug) or foundation/backing may be synthetic, natural, or both. For example, a "Wool rug" usually describes the face fibers; however the backing may be synthetic or natural. Both the backing and face fibers are of equal concern to the Oriental rug cleaner. It's safer to clean any rug with the Cleaning solution and method designed for the most sensitive part of the rug. Generally speaking, synthetic materials aren't as sensitive as natural materials. Therefore in the "Wool rug" example above, even if the rug has a synthetic backing, it's safer to treat the entire rug as a Wool rug. More about Cleaning solutions and methods below.

rug Construction

Wool is the most popular naturally-constructed material found in the face fibers of Oriental style rugs. Other natural rug face fiber materials consist of cotton, silk, grass (sisal, jute), animal skins, and even obscure materials including leather and paper. If you are the owner of an animal skin, silk, grass, leather, or paper rug, I highly suggest you send your rug to a qualified Oriental rug cleaning company for proper Cleaning. These rugs are extremely difficult to clean by consumers and permanent damage will occur if cleaned improperly.

Dry Soil Removal

A high quality Oriental rug should last a lifetime and the best way to help it last a lifetime is by vacuuming often. How often depends on usage. Generally speaking once a week is often enough, however if pets walk on the rug or the rug receives a high amount of foot traffic, vacuuming once or twice a day may be required. Dense Oriental rugs have a tendency to hide micro-soiling and sand that builds up in the foundation. Over time these fine dry soils will prematurely wear the rug.

Lesser quality rugs, especially some hand-tufted inexpensive rugs, (usually made in China, Pakistan and India) may shed face fibers quite a bit during vacuuming. This is normal for this type of rug. Unfortunately these inexpensive Oriental rugs will probably not last a lifetime unless not walked on.

Fringe care

If your rug has fringe, please do NOT use a vacuum with a beater bar attached to it. Instead either gently brush the fringe with a brush designed for fringe, or use an attachment on your vacuum without a beater bar to remove dry soil from fringe. As the owner of a rug cleaning company with well over 10,000 rug cleanings successfully completed, the number one complaint we see from consumers is premature fringe wear caused by the consumer vacuuming the fringe with a beater bar.

Spot and Spill Cleanup

Inevitably there will come a time that you spill something on your Oriental rug or notice a spot from something that was tracked in on it. It's best to immediately blot or scoop up the excess spot or spill, if possible. I recommend using a dry WHITE cotton terry towel or white paper towels to remove the majority of the spot or spill. If you choose a towel that is not white, there is a strong possibility the color of the towel will transfer to the rug.

Before using ANY spot cleaner on a rug (including merely water), it's best to test in a small and inconspicuous Area. Unfortunately there may not be an inconspicuous Area to test, especially on a smaller rug. If this is the case test it near the edge of the rug since it's usually less noticeable than the center if the test reveals color loss or texture change. If you notice a color change, bleeding, or texture change, STOP and call a professional qualified rug Cleaning company for assistance.

After blotting and testing according to the instructions above, first attempt to remove any remaining spot with tap water. Do not soak the rug. Simply dampen a white terry towel or paper towel with water and blot, never rub. If you don't notice any improvement, the safest solution to use as a general spot cleaner is to mix 32 oz of tap water and 1 teaspoon of liquid Dawn or Ivory hand dishwashing soap. Do NOT use automatic dishwasher soap or laundry detergents as many of these products contain optical brighteners or harsh chemicals that may ruin the rug.

Cleaning

Dry soil and spot removal are important maintenance steps to take between thorough cleanings, but Oriental rugs do need to be thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis. Generally speaking cleaning the entire rug once a year is sufficient, but if the rug has a lot of foot traffic, is susceptible to spills and spots, or pets and kids use the rug often, the rug may need to be thoroughly cleaned every 3 to 6 months. There are several ways to clean a rug and it's well beyond the scope of this Consumer's Guide to determine the best method in every case. Having said this, the most thorough cleaning is accomplished by the Immersion Method. Immersion is accomplished by scrubbing the rug under water and safely wringing out the excess water and soil with a roller system, speed drying the rug, and addressing the fringe. I do not suggest consumers attempt to Immerse their Oriental rugs due to the many complications that can arise including bleeding, foundation shrinkage, degradation from being wet too long, and many other concerns. Please check online at IICRC Locate-a-Pro Website to locate a qualified professional rug cleaner.

Rug Padding

High quality Oriental rugs are built extremely strong and can endure many years of use. To help rugs last even longer, help make them softer on the feet, and to provide in-place stability, the use of a high quality rug pad is highly recommended. There are several types of rug pads to consider and the selection of the right pad is dependent on the surface the rug will cover and thickness of the rug.

Conclusion

When properly maintained, high quality Oriental rugs provide a lifetime of beauty and use. By following the steps above your Oriental rug should last forever. If you have any questions about proper Oriental rug care, please contact me via email at the address below.

Tag : rugs,oriental rugs,rug care,consumer,area rugs

An Easy Guide to Good Rug Care

When you choose an area rug for any room in your house, one of the things that you have to take into consideration is how to keep it clean. This does not only mean how to train the residents of your home not to spill things on it or to how to avoid damaging it, but how well it washes and how to keep it looking good for as long as possible.

Let's look at the various kinds of rugs and a selection of ways to look after them:

- No matter what your rug is made from, keep it away from direct sunlight. Rugs tend to fade very easily, especially if they are under a large window. If this is not always possible, then at least rotate it fairly often so that it is not left with unsightly, faded patches. Similarly, rotate the carpet every so often that it will also be trodden down on all sides, rather than in one direction, which could make it end up looking quite weird after a while.

- Vacuum your carpet or rug often to remove grit, which is anathema to any carpet, but don't overdo it as you could end up stretching the fibers, which is not a good idea. In most places, once a week is sufficient.

- Occasionally, you may feel a need to wash your rugs, though this should not be done too often. Obviously, the first thing that you need to do is read the washing instructions and then follow them absolutely religiously. Don't try to be too clever - you could end up messing up your rugs if you do.

- If you have a natural flokati rug, you are best off brushing it. However, if you wish to wash it, you are probably best off hand-washing it. The best way to do this is to put it in the bath and clean it with cool water and a very gentle wool detergent. Remember: hot water may cause shrinkage, so do not use it. Soak in the water, agitate by hand, and then rinse again with cool water. Hang the rug to dry in a place that is free of sunlight as this could cause damage.

- If you want to clean a bamboo rug, this may prove more difficult because excessive moisture could easily cause mold. But do not think it is impossible. Use some household detergent on a cloth, and wipe clean any marks or mildew. Otherwise, stick to dusting, sweeping, and shaking it out.

- Make sure that it is totally dry before placing it back down, especially if you have wood flooring as the moisture can damage both the floor and the rug.

- Whatever happens, and no matter what your rug is made from, it is always extremely important to clean away stains as soon as possible, before they set in and cause permanent damage to your rug.

Caring for your rug, therefore involves a lot of common sense more than anything else. Remember reading the manufacturer's instructions, as we mentioned above, so that the rug will not get ruined when you tried to clean it. Do your best to keep it clean, and put a lot of effort into it, and you will soon see some very positive results.

Tag : rugs,rug care,area rugs,cheap rugs

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sacha_Megan_Miller

A Rug in the Dining Room?

It's easy to assume that any area where food is consumed should have utilitarian, easy-to-clean flooring. However, an area rug in a dining room is one of the best ways to improve the look of an eating area. Whether the flooring is hardwood or wall to wall carpet, topping the existing floor with an area rug creates a warm and inviting space, in which eating is a pleasure.

Speaking practically, if a dining room has hardwood floors, a rug under the seating area will help protect the wood from the constant movement of dining chairs. Even with felt pads on the chair legs, the finish will become scuffed and eventually break down from the wear. If a dining room has wall to wall carpet, an area rug can help protect that investment from stains and wear as well; it's a great deal easier to replace a rug than to re-finish a hardwood floor or rip up wall-to-wall carpeting.

From an aesthetic view, an area rug is a wonderful way to anchor the seating area. If the dining room furniture is the centerpiece of the room, an area rug can act as a frame that pulls the eye in towards those pieces. Choosing a neutral rug with a border will help feature the dining furniture to best advantage. On the other hand, while a bold pattern can distract from the furnishings themselves, oftentimes, an eye-catching pattern can help give a sense of vitality to the room overall and become an excellent foundation for stunning decorating options.

Regardless of the style and features of the rug, it is essential to measure carefully - this is particularly true in the dining room. It is very important that the rug is large enough to allow each chair to be pulled fully from the table. If a dining area is meant to be a comfortable and welcoming place to gather and eat, the last thing a host or hostess wants is for guests to worry about snagging their chair on the rug! In most cases, a rug should extend at least 18 inches on all sides of the table; so, add three feet to the length and width of a dining room table to find the minimum dimensions of a dining room rug. If the dining table is round, add at least three feet to the diameter of the table.

After determining the minimum area rug size, home decorators may want to consider the maximum preferable size for their space. If a room is blessed with hardwood floors, choosing a smaller rug will allow more of the wood floor to shine. However, if the dining area has wall to wall carpeting, an area rug can be extended almost to the walls, depending on personal preference and the condition of the carpeting. Due to these particular considerations, custom-sized area rugs can be a convenient option when decorating a dining room. It is important that home decorators get what they want in the size they want!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tia_Crawford

Area Rug Buyers Guide

When you begin decorating your home there are some important factors to consider. Your floors will usually be the foundation for your design. An authentic hand made area rug can visually integrate or harmonize diverse elements in any decor or can reenergize a room.

Below are various factors to consider for purchasing & decorating with an oriental rug:

1. Size of the Rug - Area to be covered

Size up the room and the area you want to cover.

The most common area rug sizes are 4-by-6 and 6-by-9 feet. They work well under a coffee table.

An 8-by-10-foot area rug or larger can cover an entire room.

Smaller area and scatter rugs can be ideal for adorning smaller spaces--a hearth! , a bedside, the area in front of a kitchen sink--with a splash of colo r and warmth.

2. In the Home

Living Room

In a living room the area rug would most likely be placed in front of the sofa and under the coffee table

To place a room-sized area rug on a hardwood floor, choose an area rug which allows eight inches (twenty centimeters) of wood to be exposed around the rug's perimeter.

Measure the open space up to the sofa and chairs making sure that the individual seated will have both feet on the area rug.

More than one area rug is acceptable.

Dining Room

There should be room to pull the chairs out from the table with the back legs of the chairs remaining on the area rug.

Stairs

Look for Busy & Dark patterns

Dark wool rugs are great for this

Hallways & Entrances

Dense Patterns

Wool pile (Most durable) with cotton foundation (strong and does not loose shape) is ideal.

Very light colors are not suggested

Bedroom

Do not recommend a room size Persian/Oriental area rug for the bedroom. Most of the pattern will be hidden under the bed in the dark making the rug prone to moth damage.

Instead, use multiple area rugs. A rug at the foot of the bed and two on each side Or use several scatter rugs to fill areas around the bed as needed. It will actually cost less and compliment your furnishings better.

3. FURNISHINGS

Begin with the end in mind. Visualize the finished look of the room. Do you prefer the sparse, uncluttered look or you have a room rich with colors and textures?

Remember that a rug is th! e largest splash of color in any room. Select your rug first, and then the upholstery to blend with the rug. Furniture should enhance the rug design or colors found in the rug

Next comes window treatment and walls; neutral shades are recommended.

Elements of a rug design can be further incorporated into the overall design scheme. For example, if the rug is floral, add framed prints or flowers in similar colors.

Conversely, should your focal point be furniture, choose a rug to pick up the colors used in your furnishing patterns. Patterns can be mixed if they are coordinated by color.

Don't get discouraged if you are having problems finding an area rug to blend in with your decor. We suggest you surf NatureRugs.com for the vast variety of Rugs that will suit your situation. For some reason, Jaipur & Agra Rug designs and colors tend to work with many fabrics.

4. Using Multiple Area Rugs

Should you use one rug or two?

• One rug is the general rule as it coordinates the room together and helps select fabrics for furniture, curtains, etc.
• In a very large room, more than one rug can be used to separate the room. The designs of the rugs should be different enough to create spatial separation, but similar in color and quality to maintain the integrity of the room space.

Two or more rugs should complement each other

• One needs to be dominant in size
• They should be similar in at least design/color/size
• Smaller rugs should not look like clones

5. Color

If redecorating an already furnished room, choose a rug to pick up the colors used in your furnishing patterns

Paint or paper the walls in colors found in the rug when color coordinating.

Look for a rug that is commonality with the existing color of the walls.

A rug with a bold, overall design can be the focal point of a room with a chair and sofa in solid or subdued patterns.

Light colored rugs make a room look more spacious, and deeper colors lend coziness to a room.

6. Durability

For floor rugs wool is usually a preferred choice as it resists daily wear better than synthetics. Wool has many wonderful qualities- deep, rich color tones, high durability and relative ease of care. For more information you can read article Advantages of Wool over Synthetic Fibers.

Silk rugs are better used for walls, throws etc. Living rooms are ideal to showcase silk rugs.

Chromium dyes are strong and deliver consistency and durability of color.

Vegetable dyes give the rug a patina of color, a casual look that is very attractive.

7. Shape

Let your decorating style determine your rug shape.

Don't be limited to the idea of getting a rectangular rug.

A circular or octagonal-shaped floor covering can add flair and elegance.

8. What is the dealer return policy?

You should at least have one week risk free trial period to experience the rug. You can test the wool texture, dye quality (take a moistened paper towel and run it along the edges & center, the dye should not bleed out) & see if it fits into your home décor.

Other considerations:

Medallion design area rugs should be centered in the room & directly under the chandelier

Don't select a busy area rug if the room's color scheme and patterns are busy as well.

Keep your family safe by making su! re that rug corners do not extend into high traffic areas.

Watch out for the fringe. If the rug you like has fringe, make sure it's sewn on well, and very carefully use the vacuum cleaner.

Look at the back of a rug, as this will usually tell if it is machine or handmade. If the fibers are stiff and run straight up and down, it's a machine rug.

When buying oriental rugs, avoid going-out-of-business sales and auctions where sellers aren't likely to be around later if your rug has a problem

In all rooms try to avoid having the corner of the rug end up in the middle of the doors or archway openings.

For smaller rooms, a small pattern is more appropriate. It gives the appearance of a larger room.

If you're looking for absolute perfection, don't buy a handmade area rug. Expensive hand-made rugs are not squared off as properly as imitation machine-made reproductions. Also read Article Hand Knotted vs! . Machine Made Rugs.

Don't underestimate the value of an underlay. Not only will it absorb the impact of feet and noise, it will reduce wear and tear on the rug and make vacuuming easier.

It is recommended to rotate rugs end for end on a yearly basis to equalize wear.

Oriental rugs fade, as does upholstery. Avoid direct sunlight.

Another recommendation is to have rugs cleaned professionally periodically by a reputable cleaner

To meet Federal Trade Commission requirements Persian/ Oriental rug dealers label each rug with its country of origin and the distributor's business name. Labels having the words Indo-, Sino- or Pak-, for instance, would indicate that a rug came from India, China or Pakistan respectively.

Rugs are called 'tribal" if they are woven by nomadic groups.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Area-Rug-Buyers-Guide&id=19886

Area Rugs, Free Shipping

These days, you cannot buy an area rug from a reputable seller without being offered free shipping; the two go hand in hand. It is always nice to know that companies care about not only the selling part but also the safe and trouble free shipping of your precious area rug. With the area rug industry growing with leaps and bounds, the aim shifts from only selling the product to creating a new bond between the company and it's valued customer, you. Free shipping is one of the most important values that can be added to the selling of a product. Customers love it, and when it comes to be a matter of choice, they will always go for that area rug which comes with free shipping.

Speaking of area rugs, the limits to your choice are endless. From the representation of your whimsical desire to pure class and elegance, the area rug of today provides for all of that with little or rather no difficulty at all. With the shattering of the barrier between the machine woven area rug and the handmade, the diversification in terms of quality, style and design is wondrous. And, the best part is that you don't have to pay a single cent to ship it to anywhere you want. They have not started fedexing to moon at the time of this writing, but if there were people up there, and they were buying area rugs, I wouldn't be surprised if these dealers offered free shipping. In today's competitive market, that is, to reiterate, one of the best values that a seller can add to that splendid rug for your home décor.

Do not be under the impression that you have to spend a lot of money in order to elevate the mood of your home to a new exquisite height. An area rug does the job with acute precision. Brands like the famous Karastan sell affordable area rugs that will simply blow your mind. Though Karastan manufactures machine made rugs; don't get fooled with that, because when placed beside a handmade rug, even the experts have doubts deciding which one is the machine-made one and which the handmade. To create something like this, a complete mimicry of human artwork, this is sheer mechanical excellence. It is not though that Karastan makes only machine made area rugs, as they import a lot of Persian rugs and Indian ones. Whether handmade or machine woven, one general assurance that the brand provides you is the guarantee of the quality of the wool, which is used to manufacture the rugs. Karastan uses wool of the highest quality to make their wonder rugs. This is a guarantee that has been there since 1928 and they intend to keep it that way, with no compromises on this one, ever.

Discount rugs are available from most dealers and you'd be amazed to see the level of quality you can get even when there is the discount tag attached to it. The discount is not because the rugs are bad but rather it is the celebration of the goodwill of the various companies as they are out to provide the customer satisfaction and in return, the inception of a life long relationship between them. The free shipping policy plays a pivotal role in developing this relationship.

Choice of material is never a matter of constraint. So what if you don't like wool? There's so much to choose from. New materials and fibers are being introduced constantly, in an effort to provide you the best possible option that you can have for your home. For example, manufacturers are using nylon in ways that you can't imagine. It won't even feel like nylon to you. Some may say that this is overworking the methods of rug making but on the contrary, it is the evidence of the untiring dedication of the manufacturers to furnish the maximum possible choices for you. They are very well aware of the fact that your home is important to you and it is important that you get an exhaustive range of options from which you can find the perfect one for your home.

Rugs and home; the former complements the latter and becomes the pride of any home owner for whom the look and feel of his or her home matters. This relationship has its own history and the variety of rugs that are found all across the globe are a testament to it. The Persians made their rugs a whole aspect of their identity and so did many other cultures. The explanation is simple, because rugs can define one's home, add that essential warmth and color to any part of your home. This wonderful property of the area rug makes it the pride of any room and of course, your home. Use a rug to change your home and the way you will remember your home when days have passed across the landscape of time. A rug adds to the perfect home and takes the not so perfect home to the pedestal of perfection. If you own a good rug from a reputable collection, your satisfaction, so far as making your home a more livable place is concerned, is guaranteed.

So stop looking for useless and expensive ways to achieve your goal of beautifying your home, and go buy an area rug. You'll most definitely end up saying, "why didn't I try this before?"

Tag : rugs,area rugs,wood rugs,oriental rugs

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/area-rugs-free-shipping-549221.html

Floor Coverings On A Budget: Area Rugs

My friends recently purchased a lake home near ours, in need of a lot of work. It was previously used as a weekend home by various members of a family, and consequently some of the much needed regular maintenance was not taken care of. My friends’ first task was to select quality floor coverings.

They were lucky enough to get the keys to the property a month before having to move out of the home they were selling, which gave them some time to tend to the most pressing work before moving in.

The wall-to-wall carpeting in the living room had seen better days and obviously suffered from the heavy weekend use. To help her decide on what carpet to pick, my friend picked up a few samples from a local dealer: he would come out to measure the rooms once she had made her choice.

The living room was not the only area in need of quality carpeting. The carpets in all bedrooms but the master suite were in bad condition, though the master bedroom carpet needed to go on account of its hideous color. Putting quality carpets in 3 bedrooms as well as the living room was going to cost a sizeable amount and my friends were worried about their budget. While replacing all the floor coverings at once meant for a big initial outlay, they knew it would be much easier to lay the carpet before moving in with their furniture. In order to same money they opted to remove the existing carpets themselves. They uncovered hardwood floors in the living room, in good condition except for an old water stain in an inconspicuous area: after a simple cleaning and a coat of sealant my friends were left with stunning wood floors that set out the room beautifully and saved them the expense of carpeting.

My friend also opted for an option for the bedrooms that turned out to be significantly cheaper than wall to wall carpeting. We went shopping together for quality carpets to be used as area rugs: this also meant it would be easy to change to a different color scheme if so desired.

The lake home is now starting to shape up: the carpets in the bedrooms give it a very clean look and feel, and I think my friends are happy with the way their efforts are paying off in the fixing up their home.

Tag : rugs,area rugs,carpet ,bathroom rugs,kitchen rugs

Published At: Isnare Free Articles Directory http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=121065&ca=Home+Management

Area Rugs and Flooring -- Two Newly Green Giants

Over the years, a debate has taken place in the flooring
industry over the impact its products have on the
environment. In 2003, a group of industry researches and
technical specialists met at the University of North Carolina
to examine the science with regard to the positive or
negative attributes of materials found in products like
carpeting, area rugs and linoleum.

The panel looked at hundreds of studies in relation to how
carpet and non-carpet materials contribute to environmental
quality and whether there's a significant concern with toxic
substances and allergens alleged to have commonly been
found.

The intention of the researchers was to try and settle years
of anecdotal evidence and set an industry standard to help
buyers and sellers of flooring products. A good portion of the
information reviewed came from the Environmental
Protection Agency, the National Health Science Libraries,
and other previously published industry experts.

A review of all of the literature led to one major conclusion:
materials found in flooring "play a significant role to the
quality of life indoors." It contributes to healthy design
factors, safety, aesthetics, climate control, ergonomics and
physical comfort. When maintained properly, carpeting and
area rugs are not at all risks to public health.

While the group's conclusion was great news for the
industry and the public, it's still necessary to examine
flooring's impact on the whole environment, including the
part played by rugs and flooring made from natural
materials.

Decorating Like Darwin: By Natural Selection

With so many types of area rugs available today, it's hard
enough to make a style selection, let alone having to take
health and environmental concerns into account. Keeping
rugs clean and in good condition will go a long way in
alleviating any concerns. Area rugs do have material
differences, though. Here's a quick look at natural fiber rugs
and other natural flooring:

WOOL RUGS

Water, water everywhere, so keep it away from wool. Water
is one of the biggest enemies of wool rugs. Wool, popular in

href="http://www.a1-discount-area-rugs.com/Oriental-Rugs.html">Oriental rugs, has a high moisture regain and is
susceptible to microorganism attack. That may sound like
the bad plot to a Hollywood horror film or an episode of Fear
Factor. Nevertheless, keep something that requires water,
like potted plants, off of wool rugs.

Water aside, wool's long, coarse fibers have the ability to
maintain indoor air quality and, unlike synthetic fibers, can
absorb indoor contaminants. Since discarded carpet
accounts for a tremendous amount of waste – 4.7 billion
pounds in 2002 according to the EPA – any rug that lasts
longer, like a hand-knotted wool rug, is going to get the seal
of approval from the Green Party.

JUTE RUGS

Once used primarily as carpet backing, Jute has made it to
the big time. As a full-fledged member of the area rug and
carpet family, Jute, which ranges from light tans to browns,
is one of the finest and softest of natural floor covering
materials.

Composed mainly of plant materials, Jute is a rainy season
crop that grows best in warm, humid climates like parts of
China and India. While it may grow in rainy weather, the Jute
rug won't stand up to areas with high moisture levels. Unlike
wool, jute is resistant to microorganisms, but the material
will in fact deteriorate rapidly when exposed to moisture.

BAMBOO RUGS

Gilligan's Island no longer corners the market on bamboo
flooring. You don't need to live in a hut to use this material.

Bamboo, which is also a trend in cutting boards and
hardwood floors, has become a popular option for area
rugs. And its environmental friendliness is obvious. No
trees to cut down, no waste. Bamboo is technically a grass,
and moreover a highly renewable resource. Maturing in less
than six years, bamboo is harvested over and over from the
same plants. Its strength combined with a natural beauty
can add a contemporary touch to any living space.

SEAGRASS RUGS

Seagrass is not something you may have thought was
illegal. You can't grow it in your backyard, but it does look
great in the house. Created from tropical grass mainly
imported from China, Seagrass, which only comes in a
natural organic green color, is smooth to the touch and
extremely durable and stain resistant.

SISAL RUGS

Sisal is another natural fiber that has recently gained
popularity among designers. The material is derived from a
cactus plant, grown in semi-arid regions liked Brazil and
Africa.

Sisal is stronger and more durable than other natural fibers,
making its staying power ultra-environment friendly. Water is
not Sisal's friend, either. The rug should never be used in
the bathroom or other moist areas of the house.

CORK FLOORING

Now you may be thinking how a rug is made from cork?
Well, it's not. Cork has been slipped in to this discussion
simply because it can be considered a cousin in the natural
fiber family. Used as durable hardwood-type flooring, the
cork tree is the only one whose bark can regenerate itself
after harvest without damaging the tree or the environment.
The tree is never killed or cut down and can produce bark for
centuries. Furthermore, almost all of its harvested materials
are put to use.

Cork is known for its sound environmental policy, and when
feet hit the floor, it's known for its durability. Cork may seem
elastic when compared to wood, but its "natural memory
ability" and resistance to liquid penetration can make it an
attractive alternative.

LINOLEUM FLOORING

This is no joke. Linoleum is back. So break out the disco
ball and platform shoes. Vinyl nearly sent linoleum to the
flooring scrap yard, but just like bell-bottoms, linoleum is
making a comeback. It's contemporary and gets the green
seal. While vinyl is synthetic and petroleum-based, linoleum
is made entirely of natural materials, linseed oil being the
main ingredient.

The resurgence of natural and retro products is behind
linoleum's rebirth. As a natural product, linoleum can be
recycled and is hypoallergenic, which benefits those who
suffer from allergies or asthma. Linoleum also contains
antibacterial properties that help stop the growth of
microorganisms.

About the author:

Based in Los Angeles, Ron Neal is a free-lance writer, editor and owner of Writemind Media. With more than 20 years of experience, including six at the Los Angeles Times, Mr. Neal has produced and edited hundreds of articles on a variety of subjects, including flooring, home improvement and area rugs of all kinds, including braided and sisal rugs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Neal

How to Care For and Maintain Contemporary Area Rugs

Area rugs have been popular in homes for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Asian societies that used them to cover dirt floors, and used them in the palaces of emperors, nobles and other royalties. Today, area rugs are still a hot fashionable commodity in most homes. They serve to augment the interior décor by offering a tonality, fashion and flare the makes any room stand apart from another room in the house. Most people will spend hundreds of their dollars, if not more, acquiring the area rugs that they desire, yet many fail to adequately care for their rugs and the longevity of them is compromised as a result. However, there are some rather simple steps that you can follow to care for your rugs and be able to enjoy them for years to come.

Vacuuming and General Care

The most important way that you can care for your area rugs is to vacuum them thoroughly and often. When dust and dirt settles on the rug they can get ground deep into the fibers, causing decay and deterioration. By vacuuming your rugs regularly you can capture that dust and dirt before it has time to damage your rug fibers. For delicate rugs avoid using the brushed attachments, rather use a standard vacuum nozzle and delicately hose the surface to pick up dirt and debris.

When you vacuum any rug, make sure you make your strokes against the nap, this way you can suck dirt out of the rug instead of potentially pushing it further into it-to find the nap brush your hand against the rug and the smooth side of the rug is the nap. From time to time you will also want to flip your rug over and vacuum the underside to remove any dirt that may have gotten trapped underneath the rug. A good rule of thumb is to vacuum your rug at least once per week, and for higher traffic rugs, two-three times per week.

Rotation of the Rug

To keep your rug looking sheen and new, make sure that you rotate the rug at least two times per year. This will allow other areas of the rug to gain equal exposure to the elements, assuring that the rug ages equally and looks the same on all sides for years to come. The last thing that you want to encounter is a rug that has faded on one side but is bright and sheen on the other. By rotating your rug every so often you can avoid having to worry about this. Think of your rug like a set of tires: it needs to be rotated every so often.

Apply and Use Rug Pads

Rug pads are very important for a few reasons. They keep your rug in place and prevent slippage. They add a cushion to the rug that creates extra durability and softness underneath the feet. And, they prevent lines from hard wood flooring or tile, like grout lines, from ruining the underside of your area rug.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/how-to-care-for-and-maintain-contemporary-area-rugs-629104.html

Area Rugs and Flooring -- Two Newly Green Giants

Over the years, a debate has taken place in the flooring
industry over the impact its products have on the
environment. In 2003, a group of industry researches and
technical specialists met at the University of North Carolina
to examine the science with regard to the positive or
negative attributes of materials found in products like
carpeting, area rugs and linoleum.

The panel looked at hundreds of studies in relation to how
carpet and non-carpet materials contribute to environmental
quality and whether there's a significant concern with toxic
substances and allergens alleged to have commonly been
found.

The intention of the researchers was to try and settle years
of anecdotal evidence and set an industry standard to help
buyers and sellers of flooring products. A good portion of the
information reviewed came from the Environmental
Protection Agency, the National Health Science Libraries,
and other previously published industry experts.

A review of all of the literature led to one major conclusion:
materials found in flooring "play a significant role to the
quality of life indoors." It contributes to healthy design
factors, safety, aesthetics, climate control, ergonomics and
physical comfort. When maintained properly, carpeting and
area rugs are not at all risks to public health.

While the group's conclusion was great news for the
industry and the public, it's still necessary to examine
flooring's impact on the whole environment, including the
part played by rugs and flooring made from natural
materials.

Decorating Like Darwin: By Natural Selection

With so many types of area rugs available today, it's hard
enough to make a style selection, let alone having to take
health and environmental concerns into account. Keeping
rugs clean and in good condition will go a long way in
alleviating any concerns. Area rugs do have material
differences, though. Here's a quick look at natural fiber rugs
and other natural flooring:

WOOL RUGS

Water, water everywhere, so keep it away from wool. Water
is one of the biggest enemies of wool rugs. Wool, popular in

href="http://www.a1-discount-area-rugs.com/Oriental-Rugs.html">Oriental rugs, has a high moisture regain and is
susceptible to microorganism attack. That may sound like
the bad plot to a Hollywood horror film or an episode of Fear
Factor. Nevertheless, keep something that requires water,
like potted plants, off of wool rugs.

Water aside, wool's long, coarse fibers have the ability to
maintain indoor air quality and, unlike synthetic fibers, can
absorb indoor contaminants. Since discarded carpet
accounts for a tremendous amount of waste – 4.7 billion
pounds in 2002 according to the EPA – any rug that lasts
longer, like a hand-knotted wool rug, is going to get the seal
of approval from the Green Party.

JUTE RUGS

Once used primarily as carpet backing, Jute has made it to
the big time. As a full-fledged member of the area rug and
carpet family, Jute, which ranges from light tans to browns,
is one of the finest and softest of natural floor covering
materials.

Composed mainly of plant materials, Jute is a rainy season
crop that grows best in warm, humid climates like parts of
China and India. While it may grow in rainy weather, the Jute
rug won't stand up to areas with high moisture levels. Unlike
wool, jute is resistant to microorganisms, but the material
will in fact deteriorate rapidly when exposed to moisture.

BAMBOO RUGS

Gilligan's Island no longer corners the market on bamboo
flooring. You don't need to live in a hut to use this material.

Bamboo, which is also a trend in cutting boards and
hardwood floors, has become a popular option for area
rugs. And its environmental friendliness is obvious. No
trees to cut down, no waste. Bamboo is technically a grass,
and moreover a highly renewable resource. Maturing in less
than six years, bamboo is harvested over and over from the
same plants. Its strength combined with a natural beauty
can add a contemporary touch to any living space.

SEAGRASS RUGS

Seagrass is not something you may have thought was
illegal. You can't grow it in your backyard, but it does look
great in the house. Created from tropical grass mainly
imported from China, Seagrass, which only comes in a
natural organic green color, is smooth to the touch and
extremely durable and stain resistant.

SISAL RUGS

Sisal is another natural fiber that has recently gained
popularity among designers. The material is derived from a
cactus plant, grown in semi-arid regions liked Brazil and
Africa.

Sisal is stronger and more durable than other natural fibers,
making its staying power ultra-environment friendly. Water is
not Sisal's friend, either. The rug should never be used in
the bathroom or other moist areas of the house.

CORK FLOORING

Now you may be thinking how a rug is made from cork?
Well, it's not. Cork has been slipped in to this discussion
simply because it can be considered a cousin in the natural
fiber family. Used as durable hardwood-type flooring, the
cork tree is the only one whose bark can regenerate itself
after harvest without damaging the tree or the environment.
The tree is never killed or cut down and can produce bark for
centuries. Furthermore, almost all of its harvested materials
are put to use.

Cork is known for its sound environmental policy, and when
feet hit the floor, it's known for its durability. Cork may seem
elastic when compared to wood, but its "natural memory
ability" and resistance to liquid penetration can make it an
attractive alternative.

LINOLEUM FLOORING

This is no joke. Linoleum is back. So break out the disco
ball and platform shoes. Vinyl nearly sent linoleum to the
flooring scrap yard, but just like bell-bottoms, linoleum is
making a comeback. It's contemporary and gets the green
seal. While vinyl is synthetic and petroleum-based, linoleum
is made entirely of natural materials, linseed oil being the
main ingredient.

The resurgence of natural and retro products is behind
linoleum's rebirth. As a natural product, linoleum can be
recycled and is hypoallergenic, which benefits those who
suffer from allergies or asthma. Linoleum also contains
antibacterial properties that help stop the growth of
microorganisms.

About the author:

Based in Los Angeles, Ron Neal is a free-lance writer, editor and owner of Writemind Media. With more than 20 years of experience, including six at the Los Angeles Times, Mr. Neal has produced and edited hundreds of articles on a variety of subjects, including flooring, home improvement and area rugs of all kinds, including braided and sisal rugs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Neal

Portable Accent Rugs for Home Improvement

Our homes reflect our personalities to a great extent. The way that we decorate and the various items that we place in our homes show what our tastes are like. One such way to give a statement about our lifestyle habits is the different types of carpets and accent rugs that we have placed in our homes. These carpets come in many styles and colors.

You will also find accent rugs in modern and vintage style designs. There are also accent rugs that can be used for various parts of your house. For instance you will be able to place an accent rug in your entry way or foyer. Here the accent rugs will add some color to this section of the house and protect the floor or carpet underneath from this very high traffic area.

In addition to providing color and protection for your entry way there are different styles of accent rugs that you can use here. Since accent rugs are made from a number of different materials you can choose the one that will most suit the area. You should take into account the type of flooring or base that your accent rug will be placed on. For wood floors you will need to provide a rug pad underneath the accent rug so that you will not find your self slipping across the room when you step on it.

Besides using accent rugs for high traffic areas you can use these rugs as part of your décor styling. Accent rugs will make a wondrous difference to your décor as you can brighten plain neutral colors with an accent rug that blends in the various accessories in your rooms. Accent rugs can be used to draw attention to various sections or features in different parts of your home.

The other great thing about buying and using accent rugs is that you can use different types of accent rugs for every season, your various moods and style desires. You can even move the accent rugs to enhance your existing carpets and rugs at home. There is also one other fact about accent rugs that you really should consider. Unlike normal large carpets which tend to stay in the house even when you are moving, accents rugs are portable.

This means that when you move into your brand new home all that you need to do is decorate your home and lay out your accent rugs to create that stunning look that you love. By the time that you have finished settling in you will see that it is time to buy some more great looking accent rugs.

About the Author

Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on Area Rugs for years. visit his site at Accent Rugs

Article Directory: http://www.articlerich.com

What is your area rug made of? Part two.

The two main classifications of rug materials, namely natural and synthetic, are in some ways different and also similar from one another. Unlike natural materials that come from plant and animal fibers, synthetic materials are man-made fibers that resulted from many broad studies and researches done by experts to improve, or yet again replace, the process of obtaining fibers naturally.

People now-a-days are more practical and tend to buy products that are economically-wise. I don’t blame them. With the financial recession embracing the country, there is nothing else to do but to be thrifty and buy cheap yet high-quality products. If you are one of these people, well you’ll probably prefer area rugs made of synthetic materials rather than the ones made of natural fibers. So read on!

Nylon, a commonly used material in rug production, is the first synthetic fiber to be produced. It is durable, elastic and soil resistant. Nylon made its first appearance in the US during the World War II as a substitute for silk in the military field. Though nylon fibers can also give an area rug the appearance and texture that wool possesses, rugs made of nylon don’t normally hold their worth longer than area rugs made of wool or silk.

Though some argue that Rayon is neither a natural nor synthetic fiber but an artificial one, it is still a man-made material derived from wood. Some also say it is considered semi-synthetic because it has the same characteristics of natural fibers. Rayon fibers have the resemblance of silk. And so it is used to give an area rug the look and feel similar to rugs made of silk. Thus, it is also considered as Faux silk or “False silk” also called art silk. Although it can imitate silk and even cotton or wool, Rayon fibers have a tendency to melt if exposed to fire.

Acrylic is another kind of synthetic material made from Polyacrylonitrile. Blended with other materials to give a rug the same feel that the wool possesses, Acrylic fibers are soft, elastic and works very well with dyes. Also, the cost of an area rug combined with acrylic is lower than that of the cost of rugs made with pure wool or silk.

Another affordable synthetic material, also called Polypropylene, is the Olefin. These fibers are durable, resistant to soil, mildew and stain, and, like Acrylic fibers, work well with dyes. More likely Olefin is similar to acrylic since both of them can give a rug a wool-like texture. Nonetheless, Olefin materials make a rug’s weight lighter giving it more possibility to shift and slide when placed in areas with very high foot activity. Olefin, a petroleum-based fiber, is most commonly used for machine-made rugs. And while having a low mass, Olefin fibers are of bulky and have low moisture absorption giving a rug a nice warm-feel.

Nylon, Rayon, Acrylic and Olefin are just some of the synthetic fibers used in the market today. These fibers are basically produced to somehow replace natural fibers allowing the finished products to be more affordable but also having almost the same quality as the natural-fibered area rugs. Hence it is safe to say, both natural and synthetic fibers have common characteristics. Thus, allowing substitution between the two producing cheaper high-end area rugs.

About The Author:
http://homedecorcenter.com/article-whole-URL-what-is-your-area-rug-made-of-part-two.html

http://www.articleclick.com/

Techniques in rug-making

Rugs are often interchanged with carpets. Although given that there is a wide range of designs to choose from, unlike wall-to-wall carpets that area permanently attached, rugs don’t only serve as a kind of flooring but it can also be a decorative additions to dull walls inside a home. So how is it really made?

Rug making is a prehistoric art and craft that would probably not go out of date. It goes way back and evolves through time. It is a skill that was involves a lot of techniques and procedures. It may seem challenging for one to do but considering that it was established back in the days where there is not much technology and machines to help people with their everyday lives, people have found a way to make it less difficult. So what are these techniques that were used during the ancient times and are still being used until today?

Rug-hooking has been around for at least two centuries. In ancient times, it was a craft most commonly done by people experiencing scarcity: Poor communities. And since that is so, they would often search their homes for scrap materials to be used, usually snippets of used fabrics. And while women from rich families where enrolled in schools teaching quilting and embroidery, deprived women would use whatever materials they found accessible to make their own home-made floor coverings. Customary hooking of rugs is a process involving loops of fabric, specifically wool, being pulled all the way through a backing material. This technique is identified as Traditional rug hooking. It uses a tool similar to a crochet hook that is mounted in a wood handle for support.

On the other hand braiding is a technique that is most familiar and probably common to ones ears. The process starts from the center working its way out until the desired size of the rug is achieved. Similar to braiding your child’s hair, this technique most often uses three or more strips of cloths or fabrics but can also be possible using thick yarns, sewing the braids together to keep it intact. Braided rugs are most commonly elliptical than rectangular in shape.

The word Crochet is derived from the French word croc that means a hook. Crocheted rugs are made of thick fabrics or threads using a sizeable hook. Just like the traditional rug hooking, the process of crocheting involves loops being pulled but this time instead of pulling through a backing material the fabrics are being pulled through other loops which is very similar to knitting. Crocheting isn’t just for area rugs. In fact, in early times it is considered a livelihood by most families creating garments and mantles.

Braiding, Crocheting, and Hooking are just some techniques in the art of rug-making. There are more others like needle-punching, and weaving that area used in the process. Each technique requires tools and materials that are probably similar to one another. How ever hard rug-making is, one thing is for sure. It requires a special skill that if one does not possess; he or she will not succeed in this field: PATIENCE.

About The Author:
http://homedecorcenter.com/article-whole-URL-rug-making-techniques.html

http://www.articleclick.com

Area Rugs 101

Area rugs are a great way to accentuate portions of a room and add to the mood and ambience of the interior decoration by harmonizing colors and shapes. Ideally, the primary colors of the rug should complement the wall, furniture, and furnishing colors. The rugs can be used to focus attention on another aspect of interior decoration or can be used as the center of attraction. Large, centrally placed medallion rugs garner maximum attention. Area rugs are available in a variety of materials, textures, and shapes.

Area rugs are an excellent combination of form and utility and beautifully crafted hand rugs are veritable works of art. Most handmade area rugs are made from fine quality wool that is capable of withstanding the rigors of heavy traffic and regular cleanings. High quality handmade area rugs may have a density of 750 knots per square inch and above.

Area rugs have evolved into unique shapes and designs all over the world. Oval braided rugs have history dating back to the colonial period in the U.S. They are popular even today and oval braided rugs in shades such as brown, blue, or green lend a rustic feel to a room. Area rugs can also have a luxurious lush pile in warm colors that accentuate a feeling of cozy comfort. Mexican rugs and dhurries from India can alter the tone of an arrangement of furniture such that it acquires a characteristic distinct from the rest of the room.

Area rugs require to be taken care of and if the rug is not too bulky, it can be taken to the cleaners who have the expertise of handling area rugs made from different materials. Care should be taken that furniture is not placed on the newly washed wet rugs otherwise the rugs will carry permanent marks. Spills should be diluted with water and brushed gently from outside to the center.

The cost of an area rug depends upon its manufacturing process and materials used. Handmade Persian and Oriental rugs can be expensive. Machine-manufactured rugs that are durable and can stand wear and tear are available for as low as fifty dollars; at the same time there are area rugs that can cost a few thousand dollars and are often used in mansions and hotel lobbies to complement the fine furniture in these places.

Wood floors and area rugs complement one another amazingly well; wood floors are elegant and easy to clean and area rugs offer a variety of options to accentuate the character of a room with wooden flooring and also act as a source of warmth for the feet on cold winter days. Area rugs fit in with the décor of every room and this adds to their appeal; they not only enliven a dull room but also help to reduce noise levels.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=33600&ca=Home+Management

Tips About Rugs

Traditional rugs would go a long way if handled and stored properly with care. Here are a few tips that would help you in stretching the life of that favorite traditional rug. Do not fold traditional rugs, instead roll them when you want to stow them away for some time. Rolling prevents stretching or cracking thus providing a long life to fragile fabric of traditional rugs. Wrapping on plastic may cause mildew to traditional rugs, this will eventually damage the rug. You can wrap your traditional rugs in a heavy paper that should be free from acid, cloth or you could wrap it on a sheet.

Tightening with rubber bands should be avoided after rolling your rug. Don’t place your traditional rugs near high temperature zones. Keep traditional rugs away from direct sun because ultra violet rays may fade or damage them, if kept exposed to it for a long time. Keep your traditional rugs away from the areas of heavy traffic to prevent strain and soil. A thin pad should be kept under your traditional rugs to increase its life.

The pad used for keeping under the traditional rugs must be cut half inch shorter than the edges of traditional rugs. These pads help absorb the moisture. You can purchase these pads from your supplier; opt for synthetic pads. Avoid using latex paintings on the backside of an heirloom rug or a traditional rug. Due to the latex, traditional rugs may get hard and cracks may develop. These cracks will damage your traditional rugs. If museum quality traditional rugs come in contact with latex then the life a traditional is cut short.

Due to variation in temperature and humidity, fiber of traditional rugs may swell or shrink. While hanging your traditional rugs avoid stretching. Nailing, stapling or gluing on a frame or board is not to be allowed. Don’t keep your traditional rugs near plastic or glass as condensation on these surfaces will cause mildew and this will ultimately damage your rug. For matting, use mats that are free from acid.

For padding use acid free batting covers on mounting boards, if you have a wooden frame it must be Mylar covered. Mylar is one type of natural plastic. While you hang your traditional rugs on a wall, the weight of your traditional rugs must be equally distributed to prevent straining and avoid sag on the back. To avoid unwanted stretching on your traditional rugs of small size, stitch rug tape or fabric cuff on the edges of your traditional rugs and you could make use of a drapery or dowel rod for slipping through its sleeve. For attaching your traditional rugs on wall drapery fasteners like bend nails or cup hooks must be attached on the rod of the sleeve. Rug hangers or hard wood quilt can also be used for same purpose. A full lining to support the weight of large traditional rugs is required.

Beating or shaking a rug causes strains on the backing of a traditional rug. If your traditional rug is old then it can disintegrated into parts. During foggy days or on damp days allow your traditional rugs to come into contact with natural air from outside, this will make your traditional rugs soft and cracks will not formed in the backing of your traditional rugs. Clothesline hanging should be avoided. Lay your rug flat and turn it occasionally. Grit and sand must be cleaned with vacuum cleaner regularly. Prevent your traditional rugs for getting dry.

Do not let stains form on your traditional rug. Try to remove them immediately. However do not make use of a washing machine for this purpose. Traditional rugs can be washed gently with mild detergent and cold water. Harsh detergents may damage to your traditional rugs, avoid using harsh detergent. Do not dry clean your traditional rug. Your traditional rugs must not be immersed. For cleaning and storing your traditional rug, you could take the advice of an expert.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=122935&ca=Home+Management

Contemporary Rugs

Rugs help to change the look of your room and also provide comfort to your feet. These days rugs are available at prices affordable to all the people. When you purchase them, a few tips are given regarding the practical considerations about how to use rugs to your advantage. These rugs provide a good value for your money. Using contemporary rugs in your rooms can change the entire look and feel of the room.

The application of contemporary rugs is that they can either be used to separate various living areas of the room or to unify the entire room. After choosing the size and the number of rugs, their color should be chosen the suit the surroundings of the room. They must also be able to withstand the traffic in that particular area of the room. The advantages of contemporary rugs are:

a. These can be hung on the walls and also moved to the floor later as desired.
b. These are easily portable and can be moved from one room to another.
c. Rugs help to protect your carpets that are placed in high traffic areas.
d. They help in sound proofing.
e. They help to add multi-colored look to your dull rooms.
f. They are available for modern as well as traditional styled homes.
g. They lessen the need for other decorative elements in the room.
h. These are available at highly affordable prices.

The color or size of the rugs must be chosen depending on the requirements. Rugs can be chosen as the focal point for the room or to separate various areas of a bigger room. The color of the rug should be finalized after considering the colors of walls, curtains, and furniture in the room. A contemporary rug can also be used to preserve a hard-wood floor or carpet in an area with high-traffic. These days many discount outlets are offering contemporary rugs for less prices.

The contemporary rugs come in models of flowers, stripes, bold and bright colors. They have the capacity to make your small rooms look big and also your big rooms look small. They can be made either of olefin, polypropylene, wool or cotton. Contemporary rugs with cartoon designs can be used to brighten up your children’s rooms. However, buying rugs with cartoon designs is always a risk because the children’s minds change very quickly. If after a while they do not like the design or cartoon on the rug, then they will even hate the idea of having the rug in their room.

The quality of the contemporary rug depends on the material from which it is made. Though wool is expensive, it is highly durable, soft and easy to clean. Synthetic fiber rugs are cheaper, stain-resistant, water-repellant and easier to clean. One idea would be to select the design or texture of the rug such that it joins together with the surrounding items or furniture. Whatever be the material, the contemporary rugs help to add charm to your room and also provide comfort to your feet.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=108877&ca=Internet

The History Of Rugs

The history of rugs is quite amazing. The weaving of rugs and carpets dates back to at least 500 BC. Rugs are made by weaving, at least this is how they started making rugs. Weaving is nothing new, our ancestors have been doing it for thousands of years. The first weaving that was done was to make baskets. They made baskets out of anything that was pliable, leaves, grass, twigs and whatever materials could be found at the time.

The most common material used for rugs back then was most likely goat and sheep hair. Later on the Chinese produced wool piles. Some of the first Chinese rugs and carpets were made out of cotton and wool backings.

Some of the first looms were made with two branches that looked like a fork and connected by a crosspiece. The binding threads were then flattened with a bar usually made of wood. They later learned to dye the threads with various natural colors from fruit, vegetables, animals and bugs.

In 1769 a machine was invented by a Richard Arkwright. The machine was designed to spin thread onto a bobbin. Not too many years later a machine was designed to spin a thousand threads at a time. Eventually it progressed to where we are at today.

An archaeologist in the 1950's found a rug that dated back to 500 BC or before. It was found in a frozen state in Siberia. It was a knotted rug of Turkish descent. This just goes to show you that rugs are by no means something new. Our ancestors have been using them since the beginning of time.

Before people ever started weaving hunters would use the animal hides they got off of their prey to make clothing, rugs, maps and other various things. Today rugs are mass produced by machines and most people have forgotten the history behind rugs. When buying your next rug, remember the history of rugs!

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=70889&ca=Home+Management