Professional rug weavers use many different techniques to create rugs. Some rugs are hand-tufted, others are hand-knotted, and others are machine-made. The first category is our focus today. What makes a rug hand-tufted, and what are the advantages of this style of weaving? Find out as we unpack the benefits of a hand-tufted rug.

What is the difference between hand-knotted and hand-tufted?

As their name implies, hand-knotted rugs are made entirely by hand. Every strand of the rug is individually knotted onto the rug weft. Because hand-knotted rugs are made with no tools or machines, each rug takes months to make and is one-of-a-kind.

In contrast, while hand-tufted rugs still have a handmade component, the rug weaver will use a tufting gun to punch the fiber strand through a canvas backing. Once the rug design is complete, the weaver adds a layer of glue to the backside of the canvas to secure the strands. 

Benefit 1: Affordability 

Hand-tufted rugs generally take around two months to create. This is far faster than rugs that have been knotted by hand. The timeline for handmade rugs is closer to a year from beginning to end. The quicker turnaround time associated with hand-tufted rugs means they can be more affordable for homeowners with a smaller budget.

However, we want to clarify that affordability does not equal lower quality.

Benefit 2: Quality

As evidenced by their name, hand-tufted rugs are still handmade. This means they are of higher quality than their machine-made counterparts. Plus, hand-tufted rugs use many of the same types of materials as handmade rugs, including natural dyes, silk, cotton, and wool.

Benefit 3: Durability

To create hand-tufted rugs, the vast majority of weavers use wool. If you’ve read any of our previous blogs, you’ll remember that wool is a highly durable fiber perfect for rug construction. Speaking of construction, the way the rug is made will also make it stronger. Glue is added to the back of the canvas after all the strands have been attached, providing a durable and long-lasting base for your rug.

Benefit 4: Maintenance

Generally speaking, hand-tufted rugs are easier to maintain than their hand-knotted counterparts. While the nature of hand-knotted rugs will sometimes require a more labor-intensive cleaning style, all you have to do for hand-tufted rugs is vacuum them weekly and spot-treat them as needed with a clean cloth and mild detergent.

Benefit 5: Variety

The final benefit of choosing a hand-tufted rug is the availability of options. From traditional patterns to modern designs and muted shades to vivid colors that make a statement, hand-tufted rugs come in every possible look and every possible size. 

Choose Rug Source for the best selection of hand-tufted rugs!

From hand-tufted to hand-knotted styles and everything from antique to modern options, Rug Source is your place for the best selection of rugs. We pride ourselves on carrying high-quality rug options that are made to last and will enhance the look of your home for years to come. Visit our Charlotte, NC showroom at 7215 Smith Corners Boulevard to see our rugs in person, or click here to browse our selection online.

Are you ready to makeover your home? Once you’ve decided on the wall color, the furniture, the accessories, and the curtains, you’ll need to choose a rug. What style should you choose? This can be a tricky question because, as you probably already know, the options are relatively endless! So, to help homeowners narrow down the possibilities, we thought we’d focus on a specific style option today. We’re talking about rugs with geometric designs and patterns. Utilizing these distinctive rugs can transform your room, all without much effort.

What “Geometric” Actually Means

Merriam-Webster defines the term geometric in two ways: using straight or curved lines in designs or outlines. And two, of or relating to art based on simple geometric shapes (such as straight lines, circles, or squares). 

It also ties into geometry concerning lines and angles. How can these shapes transform your home’s living room or other spaces? Let’s dive in. 

Central Medallions

Rugs featuring a large central medallion are possibly the most recognizable geometric pattern example and one of the most popular rug styles. Many Persian, Oriental, Kilim, Moroccan, and other rug categories feature medallions as the focal point of the design. These are great for eye-catching statement pieces in a living room or as a highlight under your dining room table.

Basic Shapes

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of geometric rugs is likely a basic shape. This can be a triangle, diamond, square, hexagon, circle, or other shapes. 

Sometimes, they’ll also be other shapes, such as chevrons in a repeating pattern, but more on that in a bit. 

Diamonds are famous in Moroccan, Kilim, and other rug styles. Consider choosing a rug in a muted color featuring diamonds or another shape as a cozy and inviting floor covering in your main bedroom.

Repeating Patterns

Back to those repeating patterns. Instead of the shapes being a central image or dispersed throughout the rug, some geometric rug options will feature bold and obvious patterns. 

Not sure what we’re talking about? Then, picture tribal-inspired designs, Moroccan tiles, repeating rows of diamonds, and more. These are a great way to add a pop of color and design to any space. 

Crisp Lines

While lines make up all other shapes, they can also form a geometric pattern. Lines can make simple stripes or be much more visually distinct, such as in a hash pattern. Another curious line option is rugs that look like a map or a maze. 

Regardless of which you choose, geometric line patterns on a rug are perfect for a small space. They’ll cause your eye to travel along the length of the rug and give the illusion of more room.

Transform your room with geometric rugs from Rug Source!

Geometric patterns are available in every rug style and every rug category. They’re also a great way to add a bit of flair and style to any room, with visual benefits that help them stand apart.

If you search for geometric rugs on our website, you’ll find over 400 pages of options. Call us at 980-819-7373 to narrow down what you’re looking for, or use the filter option on our website and find your perfect rug here.

Redecorating your home can sometimes be a big undertaking. For each room you plan to update, you need to decide on a design, the layout, what type of furniture you’ll use in the space, whether you want to paint or wallpaper the walls, and the list continues. Of course, we didn’t even mention the color of paint you’ll choose, the accessories you’ll want to add to the space, and what style rug will add the finishing touch. 

Before you panic at all the options and decide to throw in the towel on your makeover project, we wanted to discuss a design style you may not have considered. What is it? The art of mixing and matching to create a unique and eclectic look by combining inexpensive rugs.

What makes a room look eclectic?

The term eclectic is often thrown around in design circles. But do you know what it means? Simply put, it derives ideas, styles, or tastes from a broad and diverse range of sources.

That’s great in theory, but what does this look like practically? We’re glad you asked! A room with an eclectic feel will often use various decor choices from completely different design styles. This creates an unexpected and unique look that is, of course, one of a kind. 

Mix and match décor styles.

Did that last sentence resonate with you? Many of us want to avoid the “cookie cutter” look for our homes. And that’s one of the biggest perks of eclectic interiors because anything goes! 

Are you looking for some inspiration with this one? Consider pairing an antique rug with a modern sofa and end tables. The look is unexpected, yes, but that’s the beauty of it. A natural fiber rug like jute or sisal would also be a great addition to a heavily personalized space. Both options add an organic quality to an otherwise formal room.

Experiment with layering rugs.

Have you ever heard of layering your rugs? We’ve discussed it several times recently, so that we won’t discuss all the details here. Suffice it to say layering can be a great way to add a unique element to your space. For example, try layering a smaller antique or Persian rug over a larger jute or sisal option. In our opinion, this combination is the epitome of eclectic room decor.

Consider your budget.

We mentioned cheap rugs earlier. How does this fit into creating your unique style within a budget? That’s easy: inexpensive rugs often fall into several categories. They can be used, slightly worn, in a style that went out of fashion, overdyed, or simply on clearance due to overstocked inventory. Be sure to check Rug Source’s website frequently to keep track of our clearance rack and upcoming sales!

Budget-friendly rugs and more can be found at Rug Source!

Our clearance tab is a great place to find budget-friendly rug options for your home. Click here to see what we have available, or call our team at 980-819-7373, and they’ll send you a few options. 

Are you looking for a way to add something special to your home? If that’s the case, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we want to highlight one of our specific rug categories that fits this bill. We’re talking about shag rugs. Did you know that they are the ultimate combination of comfort and decor? After all, they’re warm soft, and provide just a little bit extra in safety and style. This is one of the ways they’re a timeless trend for elegance and softness. Here are a few tips for incorporating shag rugs into any space in your home.

1. Use in a family room.

Adding a shag rug to a family room or den is the perfect way to accessorize an area. When thinking of a family room, the first thing that comes to mind is coziness. A soft, high pile shag rug in this space will instantly make it the room your whole family wants to gather in. Whether for movie night, reading by the fire, or celebrating a holiday, a shag rug adds elegance and softness to this part of your home.

2. Add elegance to a formal dining room.

However, shaggy rugs aren’t just for casual spaces. Adding a shag rug under your dining room table can create a focal point in your room and make your dining table the center of attention. If you have a formal dining room with a statement table as the main feature, adding a shag rug underneath is a no-brainer. 

3. Experiment with different aesthetics.

Many homeowners don’t realize how versatile a shag rug can be. While many rug categories have pretty specific use cases and room designs they’ll fit into, shag is different. How exactly? 

Their unique look can help them fit into almost any decor style. For example, do you have farmhouse decor? Shag will add softness and a welcoming element to the space. What about a room that is more formal or full of antiques? Shag rugs may be a little unexpected in these areas, but they will act as another design element that creates visual interest.

4. Create a timeless vibe in your home.

This ability to cross over into other design styles means that shag rugs are timeless. A shag rug will have a place in your space no matter the current design trend. They’re creative but also functional. 

And even better yet, shag rugs are affordable options. They’re a cost-effective way to amplify the decor within your home.

5. Find your new shag rug at Rug Source!

If you’re looking for a new rug for any room within your home, consider adding a shaggy one. These work great in just about any part of your home, from family rooms to dining areas to bedrooms and more. They’re both comfortable and timeless trends that add elegance and softness to any space.

Ready to get started? Then browse our selection of shaggy rugs here, or send us a message and let our team know what you’re looking for. We’ll walk you through different options so you can make an informed, confident decision!

We spend a lot of time in our homes. Our living room is usually our number one location during our waking hours. This means that the area should be both inviting and functional. This raises a few questions about living room styling, such as how to mix and match patterns, colors, and textures.

Here are a few tips to help get you inspired and on the right track to maximizing your living room’s appeal.

Start with different shapes.

Many homeowners immediately think of rectangular area rugs when looking for ways to maximize their living room styling. Our first tip is to consider round rugs. They offer many different benefits, not the least of which is helping to make your area feel bigger.

So, what about texture? Read on to learn how to take your round rugs to the next level.

Consider layering.

Texture

We’re talking about layering. Layering is the process of putting one rug on top of another. It can be used with various styles of rugs. However, within the context of texture, one idea is to lay a bamboo or sisal rug as your base rug. Then, lay your newly purchased round rug on top of it. It creates visual and physical variation throughout the space and is a great way to up your living room styling game.

Color & Pattern

Layering isn’t just for texture, though. It’s helpful with colors and patterns as well. For example, your base layer rug could be a solid color or minimal design. Then, when you lay that same round rug we mentioned earlier on top of the solid color one, it creates a unique variation that only your home will have. 

Go for contrast.

Solid color rugs work great in contrast with a relatively “busy” living room decorative style. They can act as the grounding element within your home, combining your eclectic elements with a simple choice that makes the area feel more complete.

Busy can be a good thing.

This is not to say that being busy is bad — far from it. We only used that term to highlight that your room may have many elements.

Likewise, your living room styling may benefit from a rug with many patterns. Large medallions, chevrons, and other shapes in a repeating pattern can also contrast, especially if you have reactively simple decorations elsewhere in your room.

What is the key to styling your living room?

Is there a singular key to living room rug styling? That’s a difficult question, but we think there is an answer.

So, what is it? Creativity. Don’t let yourself feel boxed into any one style. Instead, look for multiple ways to improve your creative style. Let your imagination be the solution to your search.

Shop with us for the best selection of high-quality rugs!

With thousands of in-stock rugs in our inventory, you will find the perfect rug for your space. We have options in various categories, including Persian, Oriental, Abstract, Shag, and more. Browse our selection here or visit us at 7215 Smith Corners Boulevard in Charlotte today!

Rugs have long held the power to transform spaces, tell stories, and provide comfort beneath our feet. At the heart of the rug industry lies a gem that’s been popular since the 18th century – the Caucasian rug. Made by expert artisans in the Caucasus Mountains, these rugs come steeped in history and unparalleled craftsmanship. Today, we dive deep into the world of Caucasian rugs and reveal why they are cherished by rug enthusiasts worldwide.

Decoding the Term “Caucasian”

For many, “Caucasian” might conjure images of a certain racial group with European ancestry. However, in the rug industry, it takes on a different, more geographical meaning. Nestled between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea lies the Caucasus region, which is home to the artisans behind these magnificent rugs. This unique rug style celebrates centuries of traditions, reflecting this region’s rich tapestry of life.

Unraveling the Secrets of Caucasian Rugs

The Caucasus Mountain Region is dotted with small villages where families have passed down the art of rug-making for generations. Known for their tribal and geometric designs in vibrant primary colors, these rugs come in several types:

• Dagestan rugs
• Shirvan rugs
• Kazak rugs
• Kuba rugs
• Karachopf rugs

With the USA being one of the biggest markets for Caucasian rugs in 2023, their demand shows no signs of slowing down. Their size, often around 5×8, makes them perfect for smaller areas in homes. While many feature floral motifs, many also present geometric and abstract designs. Their production in Central Asia ensures meticulous construction and intricate weaving, making them a valuable possession for homeowners.

Characteristics that Set Caucasian Rugs Apart

The Caucasus region, sitting close to the famed Silk Road and surrounded by rug-weaving giants like Iran, Turkey, and Russia, has its distinct rug features. Influences from Egypt to China can be seen in these rugs, which often feature motifs like birds, animals, flower heads, and even abstract designs like hexagons and diamonds. One unique feature of these rugs is natural wool and dyes. This commitment to natural materials means many antique Caucasian rugs are made from naturally dyed wool.

Why You Should Consider a Caucasian Rug for Your Home

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, there are several compelling reasons to own a Caucasian rug:

• Durability: With their complex hand-knotting techniques, these rugs last decades, often becoming family heirlooms.
• Timelessness: Immune to fleeting design trends, a Caucasian rug remains evergreen in its style appeal.
• Craftsmanship: Representing the pinnacle of artisanal weaving, these rugs are robust and require little maintenance.
• Visual Appeal: Their intricate designs ensure clarity from any viewpoint.
• Investment: A well-maintained rug accrues value over time, making it a worthy investment.
• Texture: Crafted from top-quality wool and sometimes silk blends, these rugs are plush and comfortable.
• Support to Artisans: Buying a Caucasian rug means supporting artisanal families in the Caucasus.
• Historical Significance: Owning a Caucasian rug is like owning a piece of history.

Conclusion: Your Gateway to the Best Caucasian Rugs

At Rug Source, we’re proud to offer one of the most extensive collections of Caucasian rugs online. With ties to the best artisans in the Caucasus region, we guarantee quality and authenticity. For those looking to add a piece of history, culture, and artistry to their homes, we invite you to explore our selection of Caucasian rugs. Connect with us on our contact page or at 980-422-4080 to learn more!

A home adorned with an Oriental rug exudes warmth and comfort. The Bokhara stands out for its uniqueness, style, and craftsmanship among such rugs. Proudly presented by Rug Source, our selection of Bokhara rugs showcases the intricate designs and meticulous artisanship of skilled craftsmen from Pakistan and India. Dive in with us to understand the allure of Bokhara rugs and why they might be the perfect fit for your home.

The Distinctive Craftsmanship of Bokhara Rugs

Bokhara rugs are a subset of the Oriental rug category, distinguished by their unique patterns and designs. Unlike typical Oriental rugs, Bokharas are woven using only natural fibers like sheep’s wool and silk combined with organic dyes. The authenticity of these rugs lies in their intricate detailing, attributed to specific tribes and artisan groups. Varieties such as Salor, Tekke, Yomud, and others make up our expansive Bokhara collection. Their range of shapes, patterns, and styles ensures that every individual can find a piece that resonates with their aesthetic sensibilities.

The Unique Advantages of Bokhara Rugs

Comfort and Protection: Bokhara rugs are prized for their plush texture, transforming cold, hard surfaces into cozy, comfortable spaces. Moreover, their high-pile nature provides cushioning underfoot and acts as a protective barrier, safeguarding your floor and offering added safety against slips and falls.

Insulation: Bokhara rugs come as a boon for those residing in colder climates, insulating floors and adding warmth to rooms. The thick pile of these rugs ensures your feet stay toasty during winters, while during summers, the rugs remain refreshingly cool.

Durability: Handmade and woven from premium quality wool, Bokhara rugs are built to withstand the test of time. With its high knot count, the intensive weaving process guarantees that these rugs can endure heavy foot traffic, often lasting as long as a century.

Appearance: With their luxurious, high-pile, elegant designs, Bokhara rugs are an immediate eye-catcher. They exude an antique charm even when brand new, ensuring your home always feels grand and sophisticated.

Color Retention: Naturally dyed and sun-dried, Bokhara rugs retain their vibrant hues for decades. Their resistance to fading means you get a brilliant, stunning centerpiece for generations.

Versatility in Design and Size

From intricate geometric patterns to Gul and medallion motifs, Bokhara rugs offer designs that fit a variety of settings, be it hallways, living rooms, or any other space. Furthermore, with a diverse palette ranging from gold, rust, red, and maroon to navy, ivory, and more, there’s a Bokhara rug for every color scheme.

Additionally, these rugs come in many sizes, ensuring that whether you have a sprawling living room or a cozy entryway, there’s a Bokhara rug to fit the space perfectly.

Find beautiful Bokhara rugs for your home at Rug Source!

Bokhara rugs are not just floor coverings; they’re pieces of art, tales of tradition, and an embodiment of luxury. At Rug Source, our Bokhara collection promises quality, variety, and authenticity. If you’re looking to make a purchase or have questions, reach out to us at 980-422-4080 or visit our website. Our dedicated team is always eager to assist and guide you in finding the perfect rug for your abode.

Homeowners want a perfectly put-together space full of furniture, decorations, and coordinating accessories. Accomplishing this can be frustrating, especially when there are budget constraints involved. However, today, we have some news that might make you smile. It’s not impossible to find quality, affordable rugs without breaking the bank. All you need to know is what to look for and where to find it.

Most Affordable Rug Materials

There is a general misconception that affordability equals low quality. This couldn’t be further from the truth. One of the more common rug materials is cotton. Cotton is a durable and affordable material used in everything from clothes to blankets to rugs. 

Cotton rugs are easy to clean, making them an excellent option for kids’ rooms and living rooms. Cotton is used worldwide, from Egypt to Iran to China and even the United States. It’s comfortable, durable, and easy to dye. When you’re looking for affordable rug materials, be sure to start by looking at rugs made of cotton.

The Benefits of Natural Fibers

A natural fiber rug will complement your room nicely if your home decor is organic, eclectic, or nautical. Cotton is popular, but several other eco-friendly options include jute, sisal, and bamboo. These materials are all-natural fibers known for being highly durable and easy to clean. 

As a bonus, each of these is a good base for layering. Whether you’re decorating your living room or the patio in your backyard, jute, bamboo, and sisal rugs, all make an excellent base layer for other rugs. And, because of the renewable nature of these fibers, it also means that they are affordable rug materials.

Lasting Luxury for Affordable Prices

One of the most luxurious rug materials is silk. By now, you’ve probably heard of the Silk Road. It gets its name from the silk utilized throughout the ancient world in the historic Rug Belt. 

And, as with cotton, there is a general misconnect that luxury equals unaffordable. The reality is that there are often many ways to find a low-cost silk rug, including many options in our online inventory.

Finally, we don’t want to gloss over wool, either. While perhaps not considered luxury in the same sense as silk, it is a highly durable rug material. This means that a wool rug will last far longer than synthetic options. And, like many other rugs in our inventory, wool rugs are also sustainably sourced. Wool from various parts of the Rug Belt is known for its increased durability, so we encourage you to browse these options in our warehouse in Charlotte.

Create affordable luxury in your home with Rug Source!

As we mentioned, we wanted to review what to look for and where to find it. The latter part is easy: you can find the most affordable, durable, and well-made rugs at Rug Source. You can find beautiful pieces for your home without breaking the bank. Just visit our catalog here to get started!

Shag rugs have undergone a fascinating evolution. Once a familiar sight in grandma’s living room, these luxurious and deep-piled rugs have transformed from dated decor elements to modern interior design must-haves. Far from being a remnant of the past, the modern shag rug is versatile, stylish, and relevant. Let’s delve into the allure of the shag rug and how it can redefine your space.

The Legacy of Shag Rugs

Shag rugs, known for their distinctive deep pile, provide both a visual appeal and a comforting feel underfoot. Typically crafted from various fibers, including the ever-desirable wool, these rugs have a unique “shaggy” appearance. But did you know the shag style has ancient origins? The ancient Greeks were fond of these rugs, crafting them from goat hair. Today’s materials may have evolved, but the charm of the shag remains.

Why Embrace the Shag Rug?

The plush depth of shag rugs offers a softness that is hard to match with other styles. While many handmade rugs are comfortable, the deep pile of a shag rug provides a unique level of comfort. Beyond the tactile appeal, shag rugs offer an unmatched aesthetic, distinctive from traditional rug options, making them a valuable addition to various interior styles.

Integrating Shag Rugs in Contemporary Spaces

Wondering how to bring this classic piece into your modern home? Here are a few suggestions:

• Patterns are your friend: Shag rugs need not be monochromatic. Opting for patterns can elevate the visual intrigue and complement other elements in your space.
• Venture into unexpected areas: While living rooms are classic spots for rugs, why not consider placing a shag rug in your kitchen or bathroom? It offers comfort underfoot in the kitchen and a cozy touch to bathrooms.
• Perfect for the little ones: If you’re setting up or revamping a nursery, a shag rug can be an excellent addition, ensuring a soft playground for your child. Remember to add a rug pad for safety.

Ask Rug Source about our selection of shag rugs today!

Modern interior design, with its fluctuating trends, often seeks elements that are both contemporary and timeless. Shag rugs perfectly bridge this gap, offering a touch of nostalgia while seamlessly fitting into current styles. For those looking to find the perfect shag rug, Rug Source boasts a diverse selection tailored for every room. Dive into our online collection or connect at 980-819-7373 to enhance your home décor journey.

Space, especially in homes across various regions of the United States, can sometimes feel constricted. Whether it’s the bustling energy of city apartments or the quaint charm of older homes in rural settings, the challenge of optimizing small spaces is universal. A popular and chic solution to tackle this issue is introducing round rugs into your decor. Not only are they functional, but they also infuse style and panache.

Making Spaces Feel Expansive

With their distinct shape, round rugs are a game changer for making rooms appear larger. A home makeover or remodeling might not always be feasible, especially for apartment dwellers or those on a budget. However, integrating a round rug into your space can offer a similar spacious feeling. Its curved edges trick the eye, creating an illusion of a more expansive room without the hassle of moving walls or undertaking major alterations.

Spotlighting Your Prized Possessions

Every home has that special piece of furniture or decor – be it a unique table or an antique vase. A round rug can be a spotlight, drawing the eye towards these items. By placing a circular rug beneath these centerpieces instead of the typical rectangular ones, you emphasize and celebrate your cherished items, giving them the attention they deserve.

Introducing Aesthetic Contrast

A common decorating technique is maintaining thematic consistency. Sharp furniture lines might accompany straight-edged decor. But introducing a round rug can break this monotony. It offers a contrasting shape, enriching the room’s visual narrative. This juxtaposition brings out the rug’s beauty and accentuates the room’s other elements.

Find the round rugs you need at Rug Source!

Beyond the design aesthetics, round rugs provide an undeniable comfort layer to any room. After a tiring day, setting foot on a plush rug can be a simple yet profound luxury. For those intrigued by the potential of round rugs, teaming up with experts can make the journey more rewarding. For instance, the team at Rug Source offers a curated collection suitable for diverse tastes. Whether you’re local and can visit our Charlotte showroom or prefer browsing our online offerings, we have you covered. View our inventory here!