Magic Carpet

All About Area Rugs - shopping, sizing and arranging tips

1.  To figure out your ideal rug size, measure the room's width and length and subtract 2 or 3 feet from each dimension.  The result is what you should aim for.

 

2.  A good rule of thumb when deciding where to put a rug; make sure at least the front 2 legs of each piece of furniture in the space sit on the rug.  Otherwise, it will just look like a floating piece of fabric in the space and the room will feel cluttered and small.

3.  Nothing beats the quality of a wool rug and yes, it is the most expensive kind but it also feels the softest, has the richest colours and wears (over time) the best.  If wool just isn't in your price range try a nylon or synthetic blend for a similar look for less.

 
4.  Natural materials such as sisal, jute and sea grass work with any colour scheme but keep in mind they have a casual look and can feel a bit scratchy.  A wool or nylon rug that mimics the nubby texture of a natural fiber will feel better on your feet.

5.  Flat-women kilim and dhurrie rugs, which are usual made of cotton or wool, are a fun way to add pattern to a room (I have one in my from entry).  But they do not hold up as well as rugs with a pile.

 

6.  Standard rug sizes range from 3 feet by 5 feet to 9 feet by 12 feet.  If you need a larger one or have an oddly shaped room consider getting a piece of carpet cut to size and bound (I did that in my kids' bedrooms)

7.  Don't forget a rug pad!  It will prolong the life of your rug and the floor underneath.