Your Guide For Choosing a Vintage Rug

Today I’m going to share with you my tips for choosing a vintage rug that’s right for you. I love a vintage rug but over the years I’ve shied away from purchasing one. Mostly because of the very large price tag they carry in Australia. However, recently, I came across a vintage rug that was in my price range and of course, I snapped that baby up!

What to Know When Choosing a Vintage Rug. . .

• A rug is considered vintage if it’s less than 100 years old. If it’s more than 100 years old, it’s an antique.
• Imperfections are good but a rug that is falling apart isn’t. Most dealers I’ve seen will clearly state the condition so you know what to expect if buying online
• The pictures don’t always reflect the true colour. You could ask for more if you are unsure.
• Check the sizing of the rug and the area you want to put it! Twice! Vintage rugs come in all kinds of sizes but it’s no good if you love the rug but it won’t fit.

Pay Attention To Your Colour Scheme

It’s all very well to tell your friends you’ve purchased an amazing antique rug but if it doesn’t blend with your scheme it will make the room look all wrong. Luckily, vintage rugs tend to have a lot of colours in them, so picking out colours to tie in with those you love is possible. But don’t settle just because it’s vintage.

Realise it’s Not Going to be Perfect

If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t like a little wear or can’t abide an edge that isn’t perfectly machine straight, a vintage rug might not be for you. THEY ARE VINTAGE, THEREFORE OLD. These rugs could have been made by hand. So the chances of perfection are almost nil and believe me, if you find a rug that’s perfect it’s mostly likely going to be out of your price range.

But if you can’t stand the thought of your rug not being perfect, look for a reproduction rug you love. The price point is cheaper, the choice greater and they are easy to clean. A number of online sites deliver quickly across Australia. My favourite is Miss Amara.

Consider How Your Rug will Sit in the Room

We use rugs to define spaces so it’s important that you think about where the rug will be placed and what function it will perform. By that, I mean will the rug be a statement or an anchor in your room. If it’s going to be the WOW piece you can really go wild with pattern and colour (within your palette) but if its an anchor for furniture, you might want a more faded rug. Also, consider the age of the rug you are buying. Your vintage rug has already stood the test of time but it needs to be in good enough condition to last when your kids and dogs run all over it. Where you intend to place the rug might influence the material it’s made from.

Beware the Shonky Online Guy

Personally, I’m not sure I could buy a vintage rug sight unseen from a seller who isn’t trusted. You will be handing over a tidy sum. You want the rug to arrive in one piece and look like the photos. So, do a little research. See what payment method the seller has, and the reviews. Going through sites like eBay is good because if your item does not turn up you can lodge a dispute and get your money back. I’d also consider paying by Paypal for the same reason.

Check the Rug Before you Buy

Because a vintage rug is old, there’s a high chance it’s been mended. So, check the back to see. A few minor repairs are acceptable, however large repairs or big patches detract from the rug’s true worth. They could also be a bargaining chip on price.

Choosing a vintage rug requires time. Look at the front and edges for signs of wear. If it’s more than you’re prepared to have then STEP AWAY from the rug! Another will come your way. Just because its vintage doesn’t mean you won’t be able to get another. There are a million rugs in the world but in the end, it’s your choice. Go with your gut!

Have you picked a rug but are not sure if its the right size? Download my RUG PLACEMENT GUIDE

Want to learn more about vintage decorating?

Try this post on choosing a vintage style TV cabinet

Read my MUST HAVES for vintage decorating