There are several styles of rugs that have come up in vogue over the centuries of it making. Though rugs were originally made by the Tibetans it became so popular the world over that there evolved different patterns of this floor covering. All these innovations added to its beauty and comfort.

Southwest Area Rugs

This is an innovation of the region of southwest America and Mexico. It revolves around the design patterns of Native American Indians and reflects their culture. It is very traditional in approach and yet very modern owing to the simplistic and functional attributes of both the colors and the patterns. They come in wide varieties of color combinations that are vivid and can liven up home décor perfectly. It is especially complimentary when it is paired with antique furniture and other items of traditional value.

Main aspects of Southwest Area Rugs

• They are all made of wool
• There is only one variety that is made of synthetic yarn like nylon
• Almost all the rugs are hand tufted in India and China
• The rugs are generally thick and hand knotted
• Flatweaves make it possible for these rugs to be used for floor coverings as well as decorative wall hangings
• There is a modern version of southwest area rugs that are machine made
• Machine made rugs are aimed at such places that see a lot of usage and therefore need durability

Popular Shapes of Southwest Area Rugs

There are several shapes in which southwest area rugs are available. There is one that will fit appropriately for every special place in one’s home. Here is a list of all the available shapes in these rugs.

• Round
• Oval
• Rectangle
• Square
• Octagonal

Popular Fibers of Southwest Area Rugs

Southwest Area rugs are primarily made out of wool. However over the years there are several synthetic fibers that have been employed in the making of these rugs so as to ensure quality with durability. It also helps to make these rugs cost effective. Here are some of the commonly used fibers in the making of southwest area rugs.

• Wool – This is the commonly used fiber that results in thick and comfortable rugs of quality.
• Jute – This is another natural fiber that is introduced in the making of southwest area rugs. It allows the same quality with more affordability.
• Nylon – Among synthetic fibers this is a commonly used one. It makes for durable and affordable rugs that can sustain heavy duty areas and outdoor locations with ease.
• Polypropylene – This is introduction of yet another synthetic fiber. Its usage brings forth the same features as that of nylon. However it is advisable to check the properties of this fiber as well as the location where it will be used before putting it to use.

The shag fabric is used to make deep pile rugs and carpets. The fabric in this case is made into loops out of which the excess material is shed off after the manufacture of the desired length is done.

Shaggy Rugs

The name of Shaggy rugs has come from the shaggy look that the carpets have. They have a fluffy appearance and are soft to touch. Shaggy rugs are identified by certain special characteristics that make them stand apart in the world of floor coverings. The yarns that are used in the weaving of shaggy rugs are longer than conventional yarns. The fiber in this case is available in a twist that makes for a loose design in comparison to a tight one that is a feature with the technique of short loop carpet making.

Fabrics of Shaggy Rugs

There are a variety of fabrics that are used in the making of shaggy rugs. Among natural fibers the most commonly used fabrics are wool, cotton and linen. There are many synthetic fabrics also used in the making of shaggy rugs like nylon.

Types of Shaggy Rugs

There are 3 main types of Shag rugs.

• Long Shag – The length of these rugs were as long as the length of the yarns that was a special aspect of shag rugs especially in the earlier years of 1900s.
• Short Shag – The length of this is half of that of the long shag even though it follows the same pattern of design.
• Mini Shag –This is available in a longer length than a standard pile.

Shapes and Sizes of Shaggy Rugs

Shaggy rugs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes which happens to be one of its special features. They are available in very small sizes to fit in small places as well as available in wall carpeting that covers a large area. Even in shapes shaggy rugs are often available in unique and unconventional shapes that can be used to decorate a given place with élan. Shaggy rugs are used mainly in bedrooms, children’s rooms, doormats in bathrooms and even in living room areas.

Uses of Shaggy Rugs

Shaggy rugs are an extremely comfortable option when it comes to floor coverings. Their availability of a range of shapes and sizes enable an easy placement in various places of a house. The soft feel and depth of the rugs allow comfort for the feet. Shaggy rugs are also available in various designs and patterns that make it an attractive option in home décor in addition to comfort. The use of shaggy rugs also fulfils a primary objective for floor coverings – it prevents bruises and cuts for children even if they fall on it.

Shag is the name that is derived from the shaggy appearance of this style of carpets and rugs. Shag rugs are made of a variety of fibers in a method that consists of piles. These are less dense in nature and are present in individual strands that are long. It was a contemporary form of design as an innovation of carpet weaving styles.

Area Rugs

Area rugs are those that cover only a part of an area or a room. It is different that wall carpeting that covers the entire area of a place. There are several options of floor coverings in Area rugs. It ranges from a variety of contemporary as well as traditional designs. There are traditional color schemes that involve a palate of rich and vibrant colors that lend a royal and ornate look. There are also modern color schemes that depend more on pastel and earthen shades to give a look of comfort and warmth.

Shag Area Rugs

Area rugs that are made in the shag weave style are a popular choice of rugs in home décor. Shag area rugs give away that much needed look of comfort and homeliness to the décor of a room. It has a soft and deep feel about it that provides warmth and help to liven up the surroundings. Shag area rugs are especially useful when it comes to specific areas of a house like a bedroom and a children’s room.

Utility of Shag Area Rugs

There are several specific utility of shag area rugs apart from its elegance and vivacity of appearance.

• It provides for warmth as a floor covering. This is especially useful in colder countries and those houses with stone and wooden floors
• It provides a direct relief from cuts and bruises among children when they fall on this instead of the floor
• The depth that is created in shag rugs owing the cluster of individual strands lead to a great deal of comfort under the feet
• Shag area rugs also come with an inherent softness owing to a prevalence of the use of natural fibers in their making

Types of Shag Area Rugs

• Leather Shag Rugs – There are Shag rugs that are made of leather. These offer a variation from the archetypal shag rugs made of different fibers and yet provide the same comfort and. Moreover the variation is an innovation that makes for a welcome change in home décor. These are hand made and consist of soft piles of genuine leather.
• Wool Shag Rugs – These comfortable pieces of handmade rugs are made from pure wool fibers. The finest wool comes from places like New Zealand and India among many other countries. It makes for some of the softest and comfortable feel among rugs.
• Blended Shag Rugs – Rugs are also made of several blended fibers. Blended fibers are made from wool, jute, and silk with a variety of synthetic fibers. They are all opulent in their styles and colors that make them appropriate condiments in home décor.

Designs and Colors of Shag Area Rugs

The weave of the Shag area rugs allow the prevalence of plain colored rugs and designs that are more contemporary in nature. It can hold designs that are in geometric patterns of color schemes or other symmetrical patterns in a range of hues. The weave of the shag area rugs primarily make it difficult to manufacture with traditional pattern of designs.

Rugs are an important addition to the concept of home decoration. It adds to the comfort of the feet as it spreads over the floors in its various hues and shades. There are different shapes of rugs as well to suit the needs of various areas of a house.

Area Rugs

This is the name of those rugs that are spread over a large area and those that are used as floor coverings. There are several variations that are brought about in these to display that effect in the beauty of a room.

Different Shapes of Area Rugs

Area rugs are available in a variety of shapes to suit individual needs of décor. There are square, rectangle, round and oval shapes to choose from as well as many others. There is also the option of custom made rugs that is made as per specifications of a particular shape of a room.

Fibers of Area Rugs

Area rugs are made of different fibers that are both natural as well as man made. There are various makes of area rugs that allow a variety of budgets and needs of individual home and office décor.

• Natural Fibers – Among the prominent natural fibers there are wool, silk, sisal, cotton and jute. These are some of the finest natural fibers that make some of the best specimens of rugs in the world. They are available in both traditional and contemporary styles and a variety of price range.
• Synthetic Fibers – There are several synthetic or man made fibers like that of nylon, polyester and polypropylene that are used to make rugs as well.  These fibers help in the manufacture of rugs that are durable and strong. They also allow the cost to be limited and thus have an affordable price range.
• Blended Fibers – This is another option where natural fibers are blended with another natural or synthetic fiber to be used in the making of a rug. Fibers like jute and sisal are blended with that of wool or silk to make strong and durable rugs.

Styles of Area Rugs

There are several styles followed in the manufacture of area rugs across the world. The two main styles of area rugs are the traditional style and the contemporary style. While the former is an eclectic range of motifs and patterns taken from ancient cultures with a range of traditional color schemes the latter is a trendy range of more modern variations of shades with basic geometric designs that are less ornate in nature.

• Traditional Area Rugs – These are mainly derived from the Persian and the Tibetan culture among many others of the ancient world. There are legendary patterns of bygone eras as well as floral motifs with ornate designs paisley and leaves. These enable a look of royalty in a floor covering with its rich palate of bright and contrasting colors.
• Contemporary Area Rugs – The contemporary rugs are those that are more modern in their trends of designs and colors. These are more of pastel hues of various colors that are devised to give a softer and warm tone to the color schemes. There is very little design on these and even that is drawn from singular lines and straight patterns. Contemporary rugs often help to create a look of space and comfort in a room.

There are different types of rugs that are available for usage in home décor. These are all ways and means to make living more comfortable and enliven the otherwise plain looks of a home. Rugs of different colors and patterns help to add that special touch of elegance and beauty to the surroundings. Among the array of selections in rugs that are available there will be one that will fit in individual homes to give it the touch of graceful beauty.

Contemporary Rugs

Contemporary rugs are those that are modern in their style and patterns. The themes of such designs and patterns are taken from contemporary ideas and the present times. The color schemes and shapes are also innovative and in keeping with the present times. These are a break from the heavy ornate and floral patterns of traditional rugs belonging to the Persian and Tibetan style of rugs.

Fibers of Contemporary Rugs

There are several fibers both natural and synthetic with which contemporary rugs are made. Some of the popular fibers are as follows.

• Wool – This is one of the most popularly used natural fiber among all others that make very soft and deep feel rugs
• Nylon – A favorite among synthetic fibers this is one that is synonymous with durability and  strong rugs
• Cotton – This is one natural fiber that is used to make very comfortable feeling rug that compliments beauty and comfort for all seasons
• Polypropylene – This is one such synthetic fiber that helps in the manufacture of very beautiful and durable rugs
• Polyester – Among synthetic fibers this is also used to make synthetic rugs
• Acrylic – This is a man made or synthetic fiber is known for its strength and durability while offering an array of designs and colors

Designs of Contemporary Rugs

The schemes of designs in contemporary rugs are different from the conventional floral and heavily ornate motifs as followed in traditional rugs. Designs in contemporary rugs are based more from geometric shapes and abstract designs. There are a variety of sculpted motifs that are put together in a variety of colors.

Popular Design Patterns of Contemporary Rugs

Contemporary rugs sport designs that are distinct and modern. It follows a unique set of design pattern through its variety and innovations. Some of the modern patterns followed are as follows.

• Geometric Designs
• Striped Designs
• Animal Prints

Colors of Contemporary Rugs

Colors schemes that are used in contemporary do not follow any restricted pattern. Contemporary rugs are available in almost all shades of colors. However the aspect that is different is the use of colors and patterns on them.

Contemporary rugs implement a deviation from the conventional use of colors to make them less ornate and gorgeous. The balance of color schemes of contemporary rugs allow them to be widely placed in every area of a home with ease.

Transitional Rugs are those that are a blend of both contemporary and traditional designs. Their uniqueness lies in the aspect that their designs and patterns are very modern in approach and yet very classic. They are made of a variety of fabrics and their usages can be varied too. Their usage as area rugs for indoor and outdoor locations in homes allows a mixed approach to the kind of look that one is attempting at.

Fabrics of Transitional Rugs

There are several fabrics with which transitional rugs are made. There are indoor rugs that may sustain fine quality of fibers even with greater usage. However when it comes to outdoor rugs a greater strength of fiber is sought for that may sustain the weather and atmospheric elements as well as more usage.

• Wool – This is one of the finest fibers that can ever be used in the making of a rug or a carpet. Wool transitional rugs are made with a deep feel and a variety of designs and patterns.
• Blended Fibers – There are several blended fibers that make for fine transitional rugs. These may consist of blended natural fibers as well as that of synthetic fibers. It results in strongly made rugs that can sustain heavy usage.
• Synthetic Rugs – These are made of entirely synthetic or manufactured fibers. In these transitional rugs there are various schemes of colors and designs. Their manufacture in blended fibers makes for durable as well as cost effective rugs. The prices are generally kept within a range limit that makes it an easy buy for all.
• Sisal – Transitional rugs are also made from Sisal. This natural fiber makes for long lasting rugs in various hues that provides excellent quality and durability as well.

Shapes of Transitional Rugs

Transitional rugs come in various shapes and sizes. They are made to several specifications that made fit in any area of a home and be a part of its décor. Popular shapes among readymade transitional rugs are Rectangle, Square and Round.
Types of transitional Rugs

• Handmade Rugs- These are handmade mostly from natural fibers. However there are many in blended fibers too. These rugs are of the best quality and feel along with a range of exquisite designs and patterns.
• Machine made Rugs – These are rugs that are manufactured with both natural and synthetic fibers. There is no difference in the opulence of their designs as well. However there are specific pieces where cost can be brought down when it comes to machine made rugs.

Uses of Transitional Rugs

The use of a Transitional rug is very specific. It is aimed at giving that homely look to a place without being too ornate or elaborate. Transitional rugs are best described as an eclectic mix of times that has been described in designs. Therefore it adds that art without losing the relaxed appeal of shades and fabrics. It can therefore be used at various points of a home. The choices of fibers and designs may vary from areas of placement.

An important aspect of Modern Rugs that sets it apart from all other categories of rugs is its innovative designs and patterns. Modern rugs display modern art that does not depend on any prevalent scheme of patterns of the bygone era or even of the present.  On the contrary its main aim is to set a new trend each time that would be exemplary as a work of art.

Designer Modern Rugs

Modern rugs are often a realm that is created by individual designers of rugs and carpets. Designers who are involved in the trade create various designs pertaining to modern art. This art is not a set pattern of design but more of an idea that is set on a rug. These are in vogue as a designer works closely in touch with his clients and keeps their needs and tastes in mind. Designer rugs are often customized and thus created in a single piece that also makes them a favorite with the connoisseur. Though the main ideas often claim themes of abstract art designer rugs are also resplendent in various unique themes taken from instances of daily life.

Aspects of Modern Rugs

Modern rugs are characterized by certain special features that set them apart from conventional rugs. There are various innovations that are brought about in their making to create wonderful pieces of rugs.

• Fabrics – Natural fibers like wool and cotton are preferred fabrics. However there are several synthetic fibers too that are used in the same process.
• Designs –This is the main area of where modern rugs have carved a niche for itself in the world of floor coverings. Designs and its variations are its forte that scales new heights of imagination each time and never ceases to wonder.
• Shapes – These are available in all shapes. Popular shapes include square, rectangle, round and oval.
• Sizes – Though there are several sizes in modern rugs that are available in the market custom sizing is also available as per the needs of individual homes.

Interesting Examples of Modern Rugs

Designs and patterns are the key to any particular type of rugs that are available. These characteristic features helps people to understand their tastes and needs of home décor. Here are some interesting insights about modern rugs and their designs.

• A particular rug that looks like a green field with green strands that bear resemblance to the stalks of grass. It makes for a complete eco friendly look in the middle of a study or a living room.
• Imagine your favorite bedside rug on which you leave your slippers each night before you get into your bed. But what if a modern rug were to have a pair of slipper holes for you in it? You could fit your slippers in them as you take it off.
• Children’s room. A place where everything needs to be lively and wondrous. Imagine this place with a rug that resembles an egg sunny side up exactly like the one that is served for breakfast.
• Concerned about global warming? A rug that showcases the icy poles with a lone polar bear on it would bear your concerns aptly.

Flowers have enjoyed preference among the artist weavers of rugs from the very beginning. So varied and vast was the influence of flowers and the motifs derived from them that floral area rugs came to be known as a separate category among the different types of rugs. There have been various ways that many of our favorite flowers have been replicated in different rugs with unimaginable clarity and dexterity that gave them real life expressions.

Traditional Floral Area Rugs

Floral designs have been a part of design patterns used in rugs since the time it was first made. Floral motifs were an important aspect of the art in Tibet and Persia both of which are famous for its distinguished styles of rugs in the ancient world. Floral motifs with leaves and the paisley were also an important part of traditional weaving in Kashmir.

Contemporary Floral Area Rugs

The changing times saw a change in the approach of artists and craftsmen towards designs and their applications. Color palates changed from rich and loud shades to soft and subtle hues. Even in designs floral patterns that were ornately drawn changed to more realistic and basic patterns that used more of clean and straight lines than before. However floral motifs did not lose ground.

Popular Fabrics of Floral Area Rugs

Floral Area Rugs are made of several types of materials. Here is a list of some of the fibers that are used in their making.

• Natural Fibers – There are several natural fibers that are the chosen one when it comes to natural fibers for the manufacture of Floral Area Rugs. These are cotton, wool, bamboo, sisal, jute and leather.
• Synthetic Fibers – These are manufactured fibers that are used in the process of making rugs and carpets. The main purpose of using them is to bring down the cost of production that would keep the prices of the final product low. Synthetic fibers also ensure strength and durability that allows rugs to sustain more usage and needs less maintenance.
• Blended Fibers – Oftentimes fibers are blended with one another to combine the properties in them. This in turn helps to make durable and beautiful rugs. It is also a key to keep the sot low that would check final prices of the products. Examples of blended fibers – jute and wool, wool and silk, wool and linen, polypropylene and nylon blend.

Shapes and Sizes of Floral Area Rugs

There is no dearth of availability of various shapes and sizes of the floral area rugs when it comes to the suitability of home décor.

• Shapes – There are a number of shapes available in the floral area rugs. Popularly used among them is square, rectangle, round and oval.
• Sizes – floral area rugs are also available in different sizes to suit the needs of the areas within the home. They can also be customized as per the size of the area.

One of the key aspects that help a rug placement make an impression is its shape and its appropriateness to that area. There are several kinds of shapes that have traditionally been used in the making of rugs and carpets. Additionally in the modern era there are several new shapes that have been incorporated by craftsmen and manufacturers to make the industry of rugs more profitable and attractive. This has however only added to the advantages of the buyer in the variety of choices that are offered by rugs.

Traditional Shapes of Rugs

• Square – This is the first shape that comes to mind when we think of rug shapes. A square rug is that which has equal measurements of sides and are thus ideal for square shaped areas.
• Rectangular – This is another common shape among rugs. Rectangle shaped rugs are also known as regular shaped rugs.
• Round – A round shape of a rug is a unique addition to an area floor covering because it allows a look of space and elegance.
• Oval – This is an elongated version of a round rug. There are areas in a home that are perfectly covered by an oval shaped rug. It also adds to the opulence of a place.
• Hexagonal – This may seem like an unusual shape but is a very popular one. It can be used at a variety of places in a house where it can fit with elegance. There are hexagonal rugs in simple shades of colors that are also ideal as bathroom rugs.
• Runners – These are long stretches of rugs that are ideal for staircases or long corridors. They are manufactured in opulent shades as well as ornate designs that make them befitting for an elegant look.

Innovative Shapes of Rugs

It may seem unusual to many buyers that there are very many shapes that are available in the world of rug making apart from those listed above. However in the modern art of rug making there are several types of rug shapes that are present to help you select that perfect rug for your home décor.

• Flower Shaped Rugs – There are many areas in a home that may need a less formal lo to it. This may be sufficiently helped if a floral and colorful rug is placed over there. There are amazing ranges of flower shaped rugs that are extremely lifelike craftsmanship.
• Heart Shaped Rugs – This may be a favorite for a children’s room or even a bedroom rug. A beautiful heart shaped rug in a variety of colors may be refreshing enough for all in your family.
• Half Moon Shape Rugs – This is especially helpful for placement in areas like a doorway or even the landing of a staircase. Such a rug can be of a perfect fit as well as add a colorful elegance to an area otherwise not thought about with seriousness.
• Animal Shaped Rugs – There are rugs in a variety of shapes of animals and butterflies or even birds that are unique and an absolute inclusion for your child’s dream room. These will not only liven up the room décor of children but will give them a closer look of their favorite animal or bird.

There are rug varieties in which the motif and design is embossed on the rug rather than embroidered onto it. These are called printed rugs. Printed rugs can be done on a variety of fabrics. It makes them cost effective and beautiful for usage at a number of areas in a home. These are comfortable and durable also.  However the cost and durability may also depend on the type of fabric that is used in the making of the printed rug.

Fabrics of Printed Rugs

There are a number of fabrics in which printed rugs may be available. Printed rugs are easily made in a variety of fabrics. It makes them more usable and durable for heavy usage areas.

• Cotton – Printed rugs are commonly found in cotton fabrics. These rugs are comfortable and beautiful at the same time. They are available in a large variety of designs and are thus ideal for various locations of home décor.
• Wool – Printed rugs are found in woolen fabric also. These are durable and easy to maintain. The prevalence of printed rugs even on wool makes them less expensive. It doesn’t take much time for manufacturers to prepare such rugs and thus it makes them cost effective too.
• Nylon – This is a synthetic fabric that is especially used as printed rugs for usages like doormats and mats at areas of heavy usage. Nylon is a durable fabric that is also low on maintenance.
• Bamboo – Printed rugs are also available in bamboo rugs. These are made in the natural earthen shades of pure bamboos on which different prints are made to give it a decorative look for an ideal rug.

Popular Printed Rugs

• Zebra Prints – These rugs are printed with unique stripes of a zebra. They are available in the same natural color pattern as in a zebra and makes for a unique addition of a rug in your room décor.
• Tiger Prints – There are many people who take pride in showing of a tiger skin. Well here is a chance to sport that same look even in your living room. There are natural cow skins available with tiger prints on them that makes it look like a natural tiger skin all the way. Some of these manufacturers also make a complete look with a head and tail as well.
• Bird Prints – These are beautiful prints of exotic and well known bird prints that give a lighter touch to your room décor. They have soothing color combinations and give a refreshing change to the comfort of the home.
• Monkey Prints – This is a print that might go down well with the décor of the children’s room. There are different kinds of monkey prints available one or two of which may be ideal for a befitting look for a children’s room.
• Floral Prints – When it comes to rugs and carpets there cannot be a more favorite theme than that of floral motifs. There are a variety of flowers that are printed on them in a variety of colors that makes them appropriate for any corner of your home.
• Modern Prints – For all those who like modern art and do not wish to stick to conventional design patterns only there are printed rugs that are based on various modern prints. These are based on abstract themes and prints along with a myriad use of color combinations.