Rugs are a great way to add a bit of character to your room. There are many kinds of rugs available nowadays like traditional rugs and antique rugs. Here is everything you need to know about hooked rugs and how they look.

Hooked Rugs

Hooked rugs go way back. They were first made during the colonial times, by the women of England, who got scraps of cloth and wool and knitted and knotted rugs together, all by hand. There were many ancient rugs that were found to have this intricate hooking technique and it was said to add a lot of texture and durability to the rug. Hooked rugs are basically made by hand. There is an interesting technique involved in the making of this rug and it is similar to looping and hooking strings of wool on a canvas or rug backing.

As the name suggests, hooking does take a lot of time, which is why these rugs are generally on the expensive side of the price spectrum. However, these rugs are tangible proof of excellent craftsmanship and labor. Attention to detail is one of the main priorities for this rug. These rugs are made by stretching the backing of a rug on a surface or worktable and then workers can use needles and wool strings to “hook” designs onto the canvas.

Hooking basically involves pushing the needle into the backing and bringing it up from the surface in a special maneuver, which imparts the characteristic texture and pattern on the rug.

Characteristics Of Hooked Rugs

Here are some things you need to know about hooked rugs:

Their Look

Hand-hooked rugs are slightly thicker in appearance and this is because of the hooked knitting as well as the use of spun wool in its making and weaving. It is a very cushioned rug and it is great if you want to put it under furniture because it is going to protect your floors from getting scratched. It also feels very soft and luxurious under your feet.

It is not uncomfortable at all and it is also a breezy rug since the backing isn’t made of things like plastic or a highly dense material. The designs of these handmade rugs VA are also quite beautiful, along with the color variety.

Their Texture

The texture of hand-hooked rugs is slightly thick and soft to the touch but not too soft, to the point where you think that it’s not going to be durable enough.

Their texture is slightly bumpy as well, which gives it that rustic and hand-made appeal. It is not perfect at all, which is something that adds to its beauty. Now, this texture can be a hit or miss among people. Some people like the feel of smooth and soft rugs, like tufted rugs, while others don’t mind the bumps, so it is entirely up to you, which texture you prefer.

The Durability

Hooked rugs are made out of wool and generally these rugs are quite durable and strong. If you take care of them properly, then these rugs will last you a long time. Wool is a durable material in nature, but if you combine the strength of wool with the hooking technique, it makes for a wonderful and durable rug.

A general rule, which is followed in hooked rugs is that the thinner and more spun the wool is, the more resistant it will be to shedding or balding. Thicker rugs can unravel quickly and they are not as resistant to stains either.

Their Care And Maintenance

Wool rugs are generally heavy on the maintenance side. This is why a lot of people tend to stay away from these rugs because it means that caring for and maintaining the rug will cost more money and time. But you have to keep in mind the fact that wool rugs will thrive if you take care of them properly.

You need to dry clean them most of the time, especially if they are larger rugs. Area rugs can be cleaned in a big washing machine or by hand, but it needs to be completely dry before you use them again.

The Material

You might have noticed by now, but the material used in making hooked rugs and most hand-made rugs, in general, is wool. Wool is a great material to use in rug making because it is strong, breathable, and resistant to wear and tear.

Wool isn’t generally good for the outdoors, but as far as indoor placement of the rug is concerned, then you’re good to go. Wool is a bit hard to maintain and it can cost you a little extra money to do so, but it does pay off in the end, given how long it usually lasts.

The Designs

Last but not least, the designs in hooked rugs are endless and of great variety. There is something for everyone. You can choose from traditional medallions and mandalas on the rug, to quirky abstract designs. Usually, these rugs are known for their culture-rich designs and simple patterns, but today, there is just about any and every design available in this rug.

You can go for giant and small flowers of different colors, shapes, futuristic patterns, animal prints, and more. The options are virtually endless and you will have a hard time selecting a rug for yourself.

Are Hooked Rugs Worth It?

This is a question that may be raised in your mind when considering hand-hooked rugs for your home and that is: Are they worth the money? Hand-hooked rugs are entirely made by hand, so there is going to be a hefty price point for the work that’s done on the rug. The look and feel of the rug is out of this world and the designs speak for themselves. These rugs will look wonderful in any room you put them in.

So, considering these things, it seems like hand-hooked rugs are fully justified and they are worth the splurge if you have the budget for it. These rugs can be expensive and not a lot of people can afford them, but if you like the way these rugs look and add coziness to your space, then go for them. The choice is entirely up to you, but considering the pros and cons, it’s going to be different from person to person.

Hooked rugs are great to use as area rugs because they are generally less expensive than the larger variety. Generally, the bigger the rug is, the more time a worker has put into making it and it will, ultimately, be more expensive too. So, if you want to play it safe and still want a hooked rug for your home, but don’t want to spend a fortune on it, then an area rug is a perfect choice for you because you can get the best of both worlds, without having to worry about spending too much money.

Conclusion

Hooked rugs are a more rustic type of rug, but they are just as beautiful and welcoming as any other rug. So, what are you waiting for? Look for wholesale oriental rugs Virginia to find some beautiful rugs of various types at affordable prices.