Rugs play a significant role in your home’s aesthetic. They define your seating area, soften a room’s overall feel and absorb sound. They’re also a huge investment and can last for decades, if not centuries. While many people choose to buy new rugs, a vintage piece can be an excellent choice for those on a budget, those looking to add a more one-of-a-kind element or those who prefer to shop ethically. Buying a vintage rug is a great way to lessen the impact on our planet, as it helps reduce the amount of resources needed to produce a new floor cloth and can help save the materials from ending up in a landfill (check out how to recycle your old rugs).
So what should you look for when shopping for a vintage rug? The best place to start is with the online marketplaces. 1stDibs, for instance, is an online marketplace that creates the feel of a Parisian flea market in your own home with its extensive collection of one-of-a-kind pieces from reputable sellers and makers. One Kings Lane is another retailer that features a large selection of vintage rugs, ranging from 30 years to around a century old. Its curated collection offers buyers the chance to shop by style, color and type of rug. Rejuvenation, which is known for its lighting and hardware products, also has a small but mighty vintage rug section that allows shoppers to browse by place of origin, material blend and condition.
When it comes to assessing a vintage rug’s quality, the most important factor is how well it has been taken care of over the years. A handmade rug can show its age by displaying the marks and scratches from use, but these are not necessarily a bad thing as they give the piece character and authenticity. If you are able to find a rug that has been professionally cleaned and restored, it’s worth paying more for as this will guarantee its longevity.
The next consideration is how much wear and tear the rug has endured over time. It is important to remember that a vintage rug is not indestructible and that it will need regular vacuuming, rotation and a professional cleaning once or twice a year to maintain its integrity.
Another factor that is often overlooked when purchasing a vintage rug is the size availability. Unlike new rugs, which are available in standard sizes like 8′ x 10′, vintage pieces can range from super small (think bathmat size) to extra large. This makes it easier to find the perfect rug for your space.
While shopping for a vintage rug, don’t forget to keep in mind the design influences that will best suit your space. For example, a Moroccan Beni Ourain will offer a more traditional aesthetic, while an Art Deco rug can embody modernist progressive thought while still being rich in ancient weaving traditions. The more authentic the rug, the better it will be in defining your room’s style. vintage turkish rugs
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