Wool Rugs |
You will find that wool area rugs differ greatly in terms of their quality
and price. This is due to a number of variable factors, but primarily it is
simply down to the many different varieties of sheep’s wool that can be used in
the production of these rugs. Not only can the wool vary depending on its breed
and country of origin, but its age and general health will also help to
determine how good the wool is, and ultimately, how much it will cost to buy.
Even the manner in which the sheep is sheared can greatly affect the quality of
the area rug and how the finished article actually looks.
Area rugs made with wool are thought to be much more durable than those made
with alternative materials, thanks to the naturally tough consistency of the
substance. They are also considered to be much more robust in terms of looking
good, with wool fibers developing an attractive ‘patina’ as they age, rather
than becoming scratched and faded like other synthetic filament
Whilst the rug itself is made up of natural sheep’s wool, many so-called wool
area rugs will have been made using a synthetic backing to hold the whole thing
together. Although this does not pose a problem in terms of the quality of the
rug, if you are looking for a very natural and environmentally sound product you
should be seeking out specialist rug manufacturers who deal specifically with
natural fibers like jute and cotton. It is now even possible to purchase natural
rubber adhesives and pads, giving you a completely natural and biodegradable
accessory that will not release any harmful gasses into the environment or your
home.
If your wool area rug is going to be used in a busy area, such as a hallway or
living room, take care to choose one that is going to be able to withstand the
test of time. Although wool is known for its toughness, some applications,
particularly those used to manufacture oriental rugs, use very long fibers which
are not always practical for area rugs that have to withstand a large amount of
human traffic.