Old is very cool: A case for vintage & antique handmade rugs.
I’m a woman of a certain age. And by a certain age, I mean in my 50’s. So, I’m a specific age that’s no longer young ~ at least according to dictionary definitions. But I still have a lot of life to give & live. Hokey probably, but many of the characteristics that come with aging (not unlike myself ☺️) are applicable to old rugs: Finesse, patina, uniqueness, & versatile to name a few.
Textures of a vintage Persian Karjeh rug add warmth to a home.
Made of natural fibers & often 100% natural dyes, handmade is a better option in terms of sustainability. Rugs were initially made for daily use; to eat on, to sleep on, to be used when riding on horseback, used as a bag cover to carry essentials, & other utilitarian uses. They were made to be durable & to last. Wool & cotton ~ & in some cases camel, horse, & goat hair ~ are the basis of the foundation of these old rugs. Flowers, roots, vegetation, & even insects have been used as natural dyes. Put these materials together & very organically you have a sustainable product that’s biodegradable & won’t harm the environment.
Durable
The good old-fashioned materials & techniques that have been used for generations to make rugs by hand is testament to their durability. Made of natural fibers & often 100% natural dyes, these old rugs can take a beating & “keep on ticking”. Even better news is that vintage rugs are low maintenance & easy to take care of. Similar to wool sweaters, dabbing a spill when it happens then blotting it with warm water & some mild detergent does the trick for getting rid of spills & stains. The structure of the wool lets the dirt & whatever may have spilled on the rug to sit on top of the fibers, so it’s easier to clean up.
Warmth
More than just insulation & physical warmth, handmade rugs are a great option to help make your rooms more comfortable & cozy. The texture & colors evoke a feeling of warmth & comfort, relaxes us, & helps to create a place of respite. Hardwood floors are beautiful, but so is stepping foot onto a rug that warms & cozies up a room.
Do you see the possibilities with vintage & antique handmade rugs? Are handmade rugs worth it?