Monday 27 March 2017

Hand Tufted Area Rugs Mississauga

                     A complete guide to types of rugs based on material used.

Rugs have become an important household accessory. It adds a certain charm and appeal to whichever corner or part of home it's placed. But more important than design and pattern of a rug, it's important to know what stuff it's made of. Every material has different properties and those very properties decide how it'll perform on the long run. Whether it needs constant maintenance or just once-in-a-while wash is good enough. How it'll feel under your feet, everything depends upon the rug fabric. 


Different types of area rugs.
Area rugs can be divided into 5 categories based on the type of material of fibre used.

Wool Rugs
Woollen rugs are claimed to be the softest and warmest rugs in the market. And quite rightfully so. Wool rugs can be hand knotted or hand tufted. Also available in machine loomed and hand loomed varieties. Out of these four variations, hand knotted and hand loomed are the expensive varieties whereas hand tufted and machine loomed are quite affordable.

A variety of designs can be achieved in wool rugs in a rich colour palette. These are stain resistant to an extent but are not above coffee stains. Highly durable, these are apt for high traffic areas as they require minimal maintenance.

Natural Fibre Rugs
Natural fibres such as jute and bamboo fibres are tough and highly durable. They add a very calming, natural feel to the whole ambience. Their beautiful natural textures and strength make them ideal for high traffic areas of home. Latex backing is sometimes added for added cushioning and durability of a natural fibre rug. Minimal care in the form of regular vacuuming and cleaning is advised. Not to be used in wet or damp surface as fibres absorb water and become weak.

Animal rugs/ Hair-on-Hide rugs
Cowhide is patterned using laser cutting and then strips with different hair colour and length are stitched together to form a unique design. The final rug is has a latex backing.
These rugs are optimal for a more contemporary look and a rugged feel. Used extensively around the globe, these rugs have a certain natural texture. Regular vacuuming without the beater bar will do. Rotate sides periodically for equal wear and tear.

Cotton Rugs
Cotton rugs are very soft and easy to care for. These are also quite affordable and available in a wide range of designs, colours and patterns. Cotton rugs have a very rich texture and feel. Apt for both dry and wet surfaces, you can use them in bathroom or laundry area without any apprehension.
You can machine wash cotton rugs. Always dry in shade and keep away from direct sunlight.

Synthetic Rugs
Synthetic fibres are economical, durable durable and can mimic the look and feel of woollen and cotton rugs. These are easy to maintain, stain proof and can be coloured as per required. Even bright neon colours are available in synthetic rugs. These are easiest to maintain. As these absorb less water, just running water through them is enough.
Perfect for high density areas.

Even though choice of rugs is individual preference, knowing the materials beforehand is always good.

Thursday 16 March 2017

Shaggy Rugs : A brief introduction



Anyone who has owned a Shaggy Rugs would know of its warm and fuzzy feeling. It's unmatched and a cut above the rest when it comes to comfort and uniqueness of texture. My search for the best Shaggy Rugs Mississauga took me to Rugs Beyond and I was captivated. For all those who are clueless regarding shags, here's a brief guide as to what they are.

What are Shaggy area rugs?

Shags are the rugs that are manufactured by weaving long length yarn to give an overall furry appearance. Their feel does not betray their appearance in case you are using a high quality shag. 

Techniques of manufacturing

Their manufacturing technique is not different from other commonly used area rugs. It's just the yarn that makes all the difference. These can be hand tufted shags or hand knotted shags according to the weaving technique applied. According to length of yarn, three distinct styles are there: mini shags, short shags and long shags.

Types of shags
The main distinctive feature that differentiates one rug from another is the material or fabric used in manufacturing. Even though natural materials are preferred more by clients all over the world, synthetic materials are not far behind in appeal. According to fabric, types of shags are as follows:

(1) COTTON SHAGS
These are softer and skin friendly. Cotton is the most common material that is used to make these rugs. It gives that perfect soft feel under your feet. However, natural fibers are prone to early wear and tear with use so if you really want your cotton rugs to last longer, place them in a low traffic area.

(2) SYNTHETIC SHAGS
These are also in vogue with changing times. Acrylic Japanese synthetic rugs look and feel amazing. Might not be skin friendly owing to use of synthetic materials but they come with numerous benefits. These can be placed in both high and low traffic areas as wear and tear is comparatively less. Also, synthetic shags can be washed easily and are available in a variety of colors.

(3) LEATHER SHAGS
You can take your pick from genuine leather or suede leather. In any case, these are soft, plush and give a regal look to your home apart from imparting an interesting texture and hue to ambience. They are available in limited colors, ranging from dark browns to deep grays.

(4) BAMBOO SHAGS
Bamboo fibers are softened to make these rugs. Therefore, you get a completely natural variant. There is zero use of synthetic dyes or materials. An eco friendly alternative that feels like heaven under your feet. What's not to like about them?

Cotton or leather, the material doesn't matter much and it depends largely on personal preferences. In any way, a shaggy rug is a wonderful addition to your home. They have amazing texture, great insulating properties and an unparalleled comfy feel. It's definitely time for you to bring one in your home pronto.