How Do I Distinguish A Quality Rug from Commercial Mass Production

For the most part, the antique status of a rug is a kind of guarantee of quality and authenticity. While some types of antique carpet were made in large quantities, they were nevertheless produced to a high standards of technique and design. In the course of the twentieth century, however, high levels of production led to a loss in standards. Designs became simplified or mixed up. Machine-spun wools and synthetic dyes also helped to cut costs. Wool removed chemically from the hides of slaughtered sheep (dead wool) was used to produce yarns. Designs requiring fine, tight weave were made in coarse, loosely woven technique that could be produced more quickly with less wool. All such changes cut down on cost and labor in an attempt to increase output, and in such a context many weavers whose work could not compete for foreign markets were now able to do so. When shopping for a rug, it is unwise simply to rate cost against size in assessing value. Apparently inexpensive rugs often turn out to be inexpensive for a reason - they are poorly woven from inferior materials. It is essential to learn about quality of material and manufacture, which vary so considerably, since it is this that largely determines cost.