A Quick Guide to the Different Types of Rugs
Posted On March 29, 2023Every rug has a unique purpose and story to tell. Some are handwoven with exotic wool and can be draped across a huge space, while others are machine-made, contemporary, and serves as an accent piece.
Because there are so many different types of area rugs, shopping for the perfect piece for your home can get overwhelming. The right rug for you will depend on your budget, the space you want to put it in, and the quality and craft you’re looking for.
There are different types of rugs available according to their size, composition, and how they’re made. We’ll break it all down for you to help you find your perfect, one-of-a-kind rug.
Different Kinds of Rugs by Size and Shape
Standard size
First up, we have standard-size rugs, the most popular type among the different kinds of rugs. They’re not too big or too small, making them the right size for covering a sizable part of your room without looking like carpeting.
Most standard-size rugs are rectangular and incredibly versatile. They fit well in most rooms, especially living rooms and dining areas.
Oversized
Huge, oversized rugs are excellent if you want the entire floor of your space to be covered by a beautiful, intricate pattern.
They also work well for creating a divider in an open-plan space without walls. For example, you can use an extra-large rug to “break up” a huge living room into a lounge and a dining room.
Oversized rugs are also a great alternative to carpeting if you want to cover your floor without committing to something too permanent.
They work great in simple colors that aren’t too bold, so they don’t distract from the rest of the room. For example, this hand-knotted, oversized rug from Nepal is made with neutral and industrial colors, making it easy to pair with different furniture styles.
Runner
Among the different rug types categorized according to shape, runners are by far the most unique. They’re long and narrow, allowing them to fit in small hallways that need some sprucing up.
This red and teal Afghani Aryana runner is robust and eye-catching, so it’s perfect for adding a bit of richness and warmth to any narrow space in your home.
Round
Round rugs are another shape you don’t commonly see in rugs, but trust us when we say they make for a gorgeous accent piece to make your home look more modern and laidback.
They’re fantastic for small, asymmetrical spaces that need more personality. Their shape also makes any space look softer, thanks to the edges that don’t look so sharp and angular.
For example, this ivory-colored, wool, and silk rug from China has a round shape and oriental design that is perfect for making your home look extra elegant and feminine.
Square
Square rugs may look similar to rectangular rugs, but they’re way more fun to style.
They go very well with square-shaped furniture, such as small dining tables and simple chairs. They also pair nicely layered on top of oversized rugs, especially when each rug has a pattern and color that complements the other.
Different Types of Area Rugs According to Material
Wool
A wool rug is perhaps the quintessential material of an artisanal rug. It’s the most traditional type of yarn used for hand-weaving Persian rugs, thanks to its sturdiness and ability to be dyed well.
In many families, wool rugs are passed down from generation to generation. That makes them more than just a piece of art or décor but also a sentimental heirloom that adds a personal touch to your home.
Because wool is high-quality, thick, and durable, it makes any rug look extra beautiful, increasing its price. So, if you’re willing to spend big bucks and invest in a classic rug, one made of wool is a must for you.
This red, robust, Bidjar-style rug is made of Afghan wool, making it perfect for a majestic space, like a spacious dining room.
Silk
Silk is often woven together with some other type of yarn to add softness and shine to a rug. But when a rug is made of 100% silk, it becomes more opulent and luxurious than you can imagine.
Rugs made of fine silk are delicate and relatively difficult to clean, so make sure you put yours in a low-traffic area of the house or hang it up as a tapestry.
This multi-colored transitional rug is made of Indian silk. It’s perfect for adding a look of luxury and personality to a plain-looking room.
Synthetic fiber
Many commercial rugs today are made with synthetic fibers like polypropylene and nylon. Although they look decent, they’re not as sturdy as wool or as soft as silk. But if you’re on a budget, they’re a fantastic option to consider,
Different Rug Types by How They’re Made
Hand-knotted
Artisanal hand-knotted rugs are the crème de la crème of rugs. They’re the thick, beautiful, meticulously woven Persian rugs you’ll often see in traditional flea markets.
Artisans who practice the craft of rug-making take their time making every single rug using the techniques passed down from generation to generation, creating one-of-a-kind pieces with intricate patterns.
Hand-knotted rugs are of the highest quality you can imagine. And once they’re done, they make for stunning home décor and a little piece of culture you can keep in your home as well.
Machine-made
Machine-made rugs are sold for a fraction of the cost of handwoven pieces. Most commercial rugs are mostly made by machines now.
While they’re awesome for their affordability, buying one means you’ll lose out on that authentic, personal touch only a hand-knotted rug can provide your space. But they’re still a great option if you’re on a budget.
Rugs Come in Different Styles and Shapes
There are different types of area rugs depending on your need, design style, and budget. The best way to find the perfect rug for your home is to know exactly what size, color, and material you’re looking for. Then, assess your budget to see if you’re open to getting a handwoven rug over a machine-made one.
Now that you’re more knowledgeable about the different rug types, you’re one step closer to finding the right rug to fill up your space. Check out all our exquisite rug styles here.
