subject: The Art Of The Oriental Rug [print this page] Area rugs come in three different typesArea rugs come in three different types. Two are used for a focal point or to highlight a focal point. A focal point draws the eye to a specific area and highlighting is making the focal point look even better. The third has a special purpose, such as to tone down an area or to make it brighter. Toning down takes away some of the brightness or business away from the focal point while highlighting adds more. Oriental rugs are included in this rule of decor.
In choosing Oriental rugs the key is the medallion if used as a focal point. A medallion that is impressive should be chosen as a center focal point of your rug. This will draw the eye to the center of the rug. If using the Oriental rug to highlight another area, the rug should have an even pattern and include the colors of the focal point.
There are other things to consider when choosing an Oriental rug. Certain effects obtained by using the Oriental rug include; the material it is made of, will it withstand the high volume of traffic and does it provide a focal point you are trying to achieve. Most people can tell by looking at the room if they have chosen the right rug for the area. Material the Oriental rug is made of is the first consideration when buying. Most prefer wool for it can absorb five times its own weight in moisture. This would be ideal in a room that has a lot of humidity.
Taking the material into account first, wool is the preferred choice among many Oriental rug owners. The reason for this is the fact that wool characteristically has the ability to absorb almost five times its own weight in water. That means that if the room the rug is placed in has a high humidity, the rug will absorb some, if not all, of the moisture.
How large your rug should be is a question most everyone asked when shopping for an Oriental rug. This should depend upon where the rug is being used. If it is used under a piece of furniture, it should extend out a few inches but other pieces of furniture in the room will need to be taken into consideration. It should look as though it belongs and not overwhelm the piece of furniture. Consider trying a large Oriental rugfor the center focal point and two small ones of the same pattern and color that can be used to accent or highlight the larger one.
If it seems pleasing to the eye and you have chosen colors that blend in or accent the mood you are trying to achieve in the room, you have chosen well. Two rugs of the same size and pattern will divide the focal point and can be used in a larger area or a room that has an area that is of odd size.
