6 Biggest Mistakes When Choosing A Rug
Choosing a handmade rug for your home is a big moment, so it's essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure you make the right selection. Here are some the biggest mistakes we see when our lovely customers embark on their rug selection journey. Hopefully we can help you on yours by telling you what to avoid when choosing a handmade rug for your home:
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Ignoring Proper Measurements: One of the most significant mistakes is not measuring your space accurately before purchasing a rug. It is not only an issue that the rug simply won't fit. A rug that is too small can make the room feel disjointed, while one that is too large may overwhelm the space. It is a particular watch out with handmade Persian and Oriental rugs, as they are all one of a kind. If you fall in love with a rug but you're looking in the incorrect size category, you won't be able to find the same rug in your correct size. To avoid disappointment, START with your measuring. We recommend noting a maximum and minimum length and width, so that you have a range to work within. You can also refer to our sizing guide here.
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Not Considering the Room's Function: Another mistake is not considering the room's function when choosing a rug. Different rooms have different requirements - for example, a rug in the living room may need to withstand heavy foot traffic, while a rug in the bedroom can prioritize softness and comfort. Think about how the room will be used to select a rug that meets your needs.
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Focusing Too Heavily on Colour: Persian and Oriental rugs contain many colours. Usually the base of the rug is known as the 'ground colour', but isn't necessarily the overpowering colour in the rug. As long as the colours don't clash, you'd be surprised at how well multiple colours could look in your space. In addition to that, dependent on the colours you have in the room, you'll see different elements shine out in your rug. Try to be open minded with your colour choices and if you can, book a house visit to try out some different options in situ.
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Overlooking Quality and Craftsmanship: Handmade rugs vary significantly in quality and craftsmanship, so it's essential not to overlook these factors. Do a little bit of research so that you understand why there may be a big cost difference between two rugs from the same region, or two of the same size. You can start with our guide here.
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Being Too Worried About Pattern: When you look at an Oriental rug in isolation, or online, it can be easy to think that the pattern is too 'busy' for your space. What most people underestimate is how much more subtle it becomes when beneath your feet. The pattern is rarely overpowering, and your eyes are not immediately cast down when you walk into a room. As long as it doesn't clash too much with other elements, be experimental and open to pattern in your space.
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Ignoring Rug Maintenance: Handmade rugs require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Be prepared to invest time and effort in proper cleaning and care to prolong the life of your rug and maintain its beauty over time. We always recommend a professional hand clean every 3-5 years.
By avoiding these common mistakes and taking the time to carefully consider your options, you can choose a handmade rug that adds beauty, comfort, and elegance to your home for years to come.
