Area rugs are rich pieces of tapestry that beautify any space but did you know that they used to serve more practical purposes in the past? There are more to area rugs than you think. Read the article below and learn more about them.

Area Rugs and Nomads

Area rugs are heavily knotted pieces of tapestry that travelled with our nomadic ancestors. They brought it with them and used them as sleeping mats, added padding for traveling and security blankets for their belongings. They were used in place of animal hide, which were a lot more difficult to make.

Knotted area rugs and carpets served more practical purposes then that what it is today. Eventually, nomads became more settled and used them to decorate their tents. Experts have unearthed specimens of area rugs with very unique vertical designs, which probably meant they were hung on walls.

Antique Rugs and Carpets

In the past, most area rugs and carpets were adorned with patterns using natural dyes – these are what we call antique rugs. Antique rugs and carpets are hard to find nowadays and can only be seen in museums and vast collections.

Rugs and carpets that were weaved around 1860 – 1870 are classified as “semi-antique rugs”. These used synthetic dyes and were mass-produced.

The Rugs we Know Today

The rugs that we come to know and love today are what we call “modern rugs”. These use synthetic materials with an endless variety of patterns and designs. These designs vary from traditional to those that mimic olden patterns. Of course, there is also an endless selection of trendier and more modern designs out now.

Area rugs have come a long way to make it to our living rooms. The next time you pick out the best one for your home, take the time to appreciate the rich history they hold.

If you are looking to spruce up your home, give us a call. Tony’s Flooring Centre has a variety of area rugs, carpets and flooring options to suite your needs. Our experts can help pick out the design that best matches your style!