Materials
Rugs are made from either synthetic or natural materials. Handmade rugs are more frequently made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, silk and jute, as these materials are very durable. On the other hand, machine-made or power-loomed rugs are typically crafted from synthetic materials such as polypropylene or viscose, which simulate the look and feel of natural materials at a lower cost.
Here’s a quick rundown of the basics of hand-knotted rug materials:
Wool
This is the material you’ll find most commonly in rugs. Highly durable and providing unmatched warmth, wool rugs are a great choice for any room.
Silk
The most luxurious and sought-after of rug materials, silk is prized for its ultra-soft feel, delicate sheen and lustrous finish.
Jute
Highly durable, eco-friendly, biodegradable, and made from natural fibres, jute rugs are a great choice if you favor an earthy vibe. It’s also resistant to light and wears extremely well, making it a smart selection for high-traffic areas.
Cotton
This is the material you’ll find most commonly in rugs. Highly durable and providing unmatched warmth, wool rugs are a great choice for any room.
Hide
From leather to sheepskin, animals skins are a very durable choice for rugs and can also be thrown over a couch for a retro look.
Linen
Linen is more durable than cotton but offers greater softness than jute—a great choice to complement a more natural-leaning style of decor.
Chenille
This is the material you’ll find most commonly in rugs. Highly durable and providing unmatched warmth, wool rugs are a great choice for any room.
Viscose
A faux-silk fabric, viscose is a less expensive alternative to the real deal due to its natural sheen. However, viscose is highly sensitive to liquids, so they are best suited to lower-traffic areas.