Why We Shop Vintage Rugs
I was asked recently what the most durable rug for a house full of kids and pets would be. You may be surprised by my answer: “a vintage Oushak!” While we at RBID source rugs from an array of vendors, price points, styles, patterns, and ages, we consider vintage or antique rugs to be supreme. Why?! I’m glad you asked…
Vintage rugs are durable.
As we always say - a vintage or antique rug has ALREADY stood the test of time! Vintage rugs are at least 25 years old and antique rugs can be over 100 years old. Due to the nature of how vintage Eastern rugs are produced, they are extremely durable. Most vintage rugs are hand-knotted from 100% wool or a mixture of wool with other fibers. A gentle fading of colors over time is expected, but we feel that simply adds to its charm and patina. Vintage rugs should be spot cleaned with soap and water or professionally cleaned for overall treatment. You can expect your vintage rugs to age and evolve with you! It has its own story to tell, after all.
So durable that I have one in my KITCHEN. Is there a messier space than that?!
Vintage rugs come in all sizes.
Most vintage or one-of-a-kind rugs don’t prescribe to your typical “standard” rug sizing, but the range of sizes are vast. From 12” wide to 18’ and beyond, you’ll surely find a rug to fit every oddball nook and cranny of your home.
We recommend leaving 12 - 18 inches between the edge of your rug and the adjacent wall for a room-size rug.
Vintage rugs are colorful.
Vintage rugs get their color from natural and synthetic dyes, alike. Using synthetic or alkaline dyes opens up a broad range of color options beyond what is found in nature, while helping maintain a better price point.
When designing a room, we at RBID often begin with the rug to set the tone and color palette for the space.
Vintage rugs are affordable.
Vintage rugs come in a variety of price ranges dependent on the age, fiber content, and uniqueness of the rug. We find that when comparing newly manufactured rugs of similar construction, the vintage rugs often win out on price. Some of our favorite places to shop for vintage rugs online are Chairish, Etsy and Instagram. If you do some digging, you’ll find dealers from the world over selling beautiful, affordable wares.
