What to look for when buying a Textured Rug

What to look for when buying a Textured Rug

  When looking at buying a textured rug, there is plenty of information that is not readily available. Details are often excluded and difficult to find, and as such we here at Scattermats wanted to share as much as we could! In this blog, we will cover how textured rugs are made and what it is you should look out for when buying them. But for now, we will start with the basics of looking at buying any floor area rug; The first thing to do when looking at purchasing any rug is to look at the size you are after. Whether you are after a small mat or a room-encompassing rug, size IS what matters. Think about what you need the rug to achieve, and plan around that. Maybe you are after something to fill your lounge area and need something with the size to match, or maybe you are after something small to wipe your feet on upon entering the home. Either way, think about what you need and then measure away! Always remember to measure the area you need, and compare it with common sizes! For example, Scattermats sell rugs of the following average sizes; 120x170cm, 160x230cm, 190x290cm, 240x330cm and 300x400cm! After you have determined the size you need, think about the colour and theme you would like your rug to match. Are you after a modern style or something more traditional? Compare it with the furniture around the area you would like it placed, and then consider whether you want it to contrast or to blend in. Some customers really enjoy having a modern rug contrasted with traditional style furniture! After you have thought about style, think about colour. Similar to theme, it is a matter of determining whether you would like your floor area rug to match or contrast with the surrounding furniture! With these first steps in mind, lets talk texture! Textured rugs can be made of Wool and Viscose (commonly known as Art Silk), but can also come in the usual nylons and polyester synthetics that are common in many other rugs. If you have found a rug you like, it is always recommended you check which it is made from, as it can determine its durability, easiness to clean, and, most importantly, price. Generally, Wool is considered one of the more hard-wearing of the materials, but it can also depend on how the textured rug is made. Wool is commonly paired with viscose to add a bit more softness and variability in design, but generally costs a little bit more. In terms of differing kinds of texture and design, there are multiple different weaves used when making these rugs. These weaves vary between manufacturers, but commonly come in Boucle, Braided, Dual Height, Cross-Stitch and Loop Pile. Boucle or Flat-weave is what you generally see when looking for Jute and Sisal rugs, but is made by looping two strands and keeping one loose while tightening the other. This process causes one to function as an anchor, while the other loops around continuously forming the weave. Most textured rugs are made by having the yarn fibers exposed to a steam treatment that causes the individual strands to curl and stay curled. Due to this steam treatment, the fibers curl differently to each other, making footprints less visible and making it easier to vacuum. This is all done before it is weaved, and helps add to the design. For example, with the Braided weave the fibers are essentially plaited together, which when combined with the steam treated fibers allows for a textured rug that is surprisingly easy to vacuum. Keep all of the above in mind when searching for a textured rug! Size, colour, theme and make are all very important factors in finding a rug that suits your home and needs. Think long and hard about it, and never be afraid to ask questions. Rugs are usually a big and long term purchase, so make sure your happy with what you are getting! Check out the link below for a few extra tips and tricks; https://www.scattermats.com.au/buying-tips-online-instore