Designs & Trends

The Differences Between Over-Dyed & Distressed Rugs

Have you ever asked yourself the difference between a 4×4 SUV and an all-wheel-drive model? Vehicle enthusiasts will often be able to break down the specific use cases and why one is better than the other. Likewise, those in the rug industry can immediately spot the difference between over-dyed and distressed rugs. 

These two categories might look similar at the surface level. However, they are both distinctly different and worth taking a closer look at. Here are some of the unique variations between over-dyed and distressed rugs.

The True Age of the Rug

Recently, we covered the art of the process of over-dyeing rugs. Here, we recapped how one of the goals of an over-dyed rug is to make it look artificially older than it is. This darkens, fades, or completely alters the look of the rug.

An older rug, especially vintage or antique, might also look worn or faded. The difference between these two is that one looks older than it is (over-dyed) while the other is an old rug (distressed).

Original vs. Natural Weathering

A distressed rug’s weathering comes naturally through usage and wear and tear. With an over-dyed rug, its weathering is through the over-dyeing process.

Of course, there is some overlap between these two categories. There are examples where a distressed rug might be new and given a distressed look. There are also cases where an over-dyed rug has natural weathering. These are the exceptions, not the rule. 

Original vs. Modified Colors

Another notable difference between over-dyed and distressed rugs is the source of the color. Even if faded, original colors will be far more prominent with a distressed rug. Red may have gradually faded to pink, or navy lightened to blue. These changes are, again, a natural part of the aging process.

On the other hand, an over-dyed rug may also have some of these faded characteristics. The difference is that the over-dyeing process then applies a secondary layer of color to whatever shape the rug is in. This means that it has been modified and no longer retains many, if not all, of the natural hues that the weaver gave it.

Intact vs. Damaged

Another difference between over-dyed and distressed rugs is that the former will generally be intact. The latter will often have physical damage, such as torn edges or thinner fabric sections.

Find both over-dyed and distressed rugs online or in person at Rug Source!

We’re proud to be one of the nation’s most recognized online retailers and a local provider of rugs from around the world. If you’re looking for an over-dyed or distressed rug, there are a few ways to compare the differences. Visit our online inventory here and here, or visit our showroom to see them for yourself!