Decorating with vintage and antique hand-knotted rugs has been increasing in popularity over the last couple of years. Persian rugs have always been timeless, but recently worn and older rugs have also been used for rustic and other decorating themes. If you are just settling in to begin your search for the perfect Persian rug for your space there are several things you need to consider.
How to choose a Persian Rug:
1. Determine the condition you are looking for. Are you looking for an antique or vintage piece in perfect condition? Those types of pieces are rare and therefore much more expensive than pieces with a little wear. Reaching out to a high-end rug store is your best option when searching for a piece in excellent condition.
2. Where are you putting the rug? If you are putting your rug in a high-traffic area like an entryway, an antique beauty that's worn with weak areas may look great but probably isn't the best idea (better to save that one for the bedroom where it won't see as much shoe traffic). That's not to say you can't put an older rug in your entrance way: Persian rugs were made to stand the test of time. Choose a rug with a solid weave and a lot of life left in the pile for a high traffic area.
3. Style. Most people think of flowers and curvilinear patterns on red fields when they hear about Persian rugs. This is not always the case. There are many tribal and nomadic Persian rugs like Kurdistans, some types of Hamedans, and more. Take time to think about what style will best fit the space you are decorating. Not all Persian rugs have rich red fields either, check out the different types of Persian rugs here.
4. Take your time. It's not everyday a customer decides on a rug type and color then walks into a rug store and finds the exact rug of their dreams. Plan on giving yourself plenty of time to decide what your looking for, and give the specifications of what you are looking for to a dealer who will be able to alert you when they get something in.