Braided Rugs for Beginners

Know what to look for when you buy braided rugs

To learn about braided rugs for beginners, study the history of rug making. Braided rugs have been around for several hundred years. Originally, pioneers constructed braided mats from fabric scraps. These colorful rugs gave their cabins a warm, cozy, homey feel. To get the same homespun look, consider adding a braided rug to your home.

Although they aren't sure how to choose one, many people love the look of braided rugs. For beginners, learn to recognize quality rug construction and, when you are ready to invest in a rug of your own, begin with these simple steps:

1. Become familiar the distinctive patterns and styles of braided rugs.

2. Search for a supplier of braided rugs online.

3. Care for your braided rug properly after you've purchased it.

 

Learn the variety of materials, styles and shapes of braided rugs

Braided carpets can be long and narrow, but the most common shape is the spiral. When you are selecting a braided mat or a larger-sized braided carpet, keep your room dimensions in mind. Select a rug that will fit easily in the room and blend with your decor. Traditionally, a braided rug was made of wool, which is durable, but now synthetics are also popular. Rugs can also be made of silk, chenille, or even jute.
Try: AllBraidedRugs.com discusses the shapes and materials used for braided rugs. Just Braided Rugs talks about the various construction methods used to create braided rugs.

Find braided rug suppliers online

Suppliers of braided rugs often advertise on the Internet. One advantage of finding suppliers online is that you can see how the colors and patterns blend with your home. The Internet also allows you to find discount braided rugs through wholesalers or resellers. Online auction sites and individual advertisements also offer braided rugs for sale, but use these sites with caution.
Try: Cape Cod Braided Rug offers a variety of styles and colors. They also will create custom designs to go with your decor. Kathy's Braided Rugs offers a selection of classic rugs, but the company also makes unusual shapes such as watermelons, dog bones and hearts. RugInsider.com has a list of rug and furnishings markets where you may be able to find braided rug manufacturers who will sell at wholesale prices.

Familiarize yourself with proper braided rug care techniques

Once you have selected your rug, you'll need to know how to keep it clean. Most rugs are fragile, so don't beat them or treat them roughly. Rotating them will help them wear evenly. If the coils begin to separate, stitch them immediately to prevent the rug from unraveling.
Try: Area Rug World gives a variety of tips for maintaining your braided carpet. BellaOnline details how to care for braided rugs made of wool.

 

• Braided rugs are reversible, so when they get dirty, you can flip them over and get twice the wear between washings.
• Not all second-hand braided rugs will be less expensive. Some are antiques or heirlooms, so you can expect to pay a much higher price for these valuable braided carpets.

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