How to Choose the Best Vintage Rugs

Choosing a vintage rug is a bit like buying a one-of-a-kind piece of clothing; the selection process requires a little extra care. You’ll want to consider expected foot traffic, comfort levels, and a few other factors before making your final decision, but when you’re done, you’ll have an heirloom carpet that adds warmth and depth to your space while absorbing sound.

To start your search, look for retailers who are transparent about where their rugs come from and the origins they represent. Woven, for instance, has been in business for decades, and founder Abraham Moradzadeh has personally scoured rug fairs and ancient bazaars to curate a sublime collection that spans continents from various eras. Their selection includes dreamy Amritsar and Agra dhurries from India, lush oushaks and kilims from Turkey, and sublime khotans from Samarkand in calming, nature-evoking palettes.

Also be sure to pay close attention to craftsmanship and a general sense of what’s right for you. You’ll want to look for touches that demonstrate the artisan’s skill, such as an even pattern and tightly woven knots. Also keep in mind that some of the appeal of a vintage rug is its patina, which will naturally fade over time and can add to its character and comfort.

Another way to find your perfect vintage rug is to opt for an overdyed option. This technique is popular in Turkey, where many antique or vintage rugs are repurposed by shearing and over-dyeing to give them an on-trend faded and worn look. In addition to being a beautiful aesthetic, this method is sustainable, since it’s a way to recycle and reuse existing hand-knotted pieces instead of throwing them away.

You can also opt for a rug that’s been restored or “distressed” to mimic the appearance of an older and loved piece. This has become a growing trend among those who prefer a more casual, relaxed vibe and celebrates textiles that have been used and lived on, rather than pristine. For this look, rugs are sheared and then washed to remove dirt and odors before being laid out in the sun to achieve mellow colors.

Finally, there are plenty of size options to choose from, which can be a boon for those with oddly shaped rooms that a standard 8′ x 10′ won’t fit. You can even find smaller vintage rugs, like skinny runners, that make a bold statement.

If you’re ready to start hunting for a vintage rug, do your homework by searching for sellers who offer robust search options that let you search by color, shape, country of origin, price, and more. It’s also a good idea to research each seller’s return policies and read reviews from previous buyers so you can feel confident in your purchase. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions! A good seller should be happy to answer any of your queries and help you find the perfect rug for your home.  vintage persian rugs