Design Directions: Rugs

Material Choices | Signs of Quality | The Making of a Karastan

SIGNS OF QUALITY

To view this content you need to install the newest version of the Flash Player

Trying to evaluate the huge amount of rug types on the market can feel overwhelming. It is easy to be misled when comparing
hand-made to machine-made and woven to tufted rugs. What you need to take into account when buying a quality rug are the identifiable signs of quality:

Craftsmanship A variety of methods are used to craft rugs, and quality varies within each category. To determine the best, consider the expertise of the weaver along with the fiber type, pile density and height, finishing treatments, and artistic quality. It’s also helpful to know that a reputable manufacturer, like Karastan, stands by your purchase.

Materials For good looks that last, it is best to choose wool. This luxurious fiber is the standard by which all other fibers are measured. Although it is typically more expensive than man-made fibers, it is well worth the price. Visit Material Choices for more information on natural and man-made fibers.

Artistic Quality The more skilled the artisan, the better the rug—regardless of the weaving method. Whether hand-knotted, flat-woven or machine-made, quality and price are directly related to the time and talent of the weaver. Karastan artisans are skilled at operating complex machinery and experienced in translating broad palettes of color. What’s more, our artisans inspect each rug at every stage of the manufacturing process to the highest level of satisfaction.

Pile Density Density refers to the amount of pile yarn used in the rug and the closeness of the weave. In general, the denser the pile, the better the performance. Take your fingers and try to wiggle them into the pile. The more difficult it is to get to the bottom, the denser the rug. Keep in mind, density alone is not a good measure of performance quality; fiber type and pile height need to be considered as well.

Finishes External finishes are often applied to enhance a rug’s features. If you are buying a wool rug, especially one that is hand-made, you want to make sure it has been permanently mothproofed. Since wool is naturally soil resistant, it doesn’t require further treatments.