There's an old saying, "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is." This is particularly true when buying any oriental rug. Buy from someone who has a permanent store, who is willing to stand behind the rug he sells, and who has a good reputation. It is particularly important for first-time rug buyers to establish a good relationship with a dealer they can trust and not hesitate to ask the dealer questions.

When a person is ready to buy there are several things the rug dealer will need to know.

First, the buyer should bring the dimensions of the area to be covered. This will help the dealer to determine the size needed to beautify the room under consideration.

The next and, most important, factor is finding a pleasing pattern and color. These two factors, more than any other, will determine how well the new rug ‘fits’ with the owner. Therefore, color samples of material, wallpaper, or paint that will have a great impact on the final choice should be brought to the rug showroom.

The colors in the rug should be aesthetically pleasing, as should the design. A potential buyer may have to look at a number of rugs before determining which patterns and colors are most appealing to them, or it may be “love at first sight. Thus, it would be unwise to buy from auctions or transient dealers.

 

Special Caution

 

Today’s consumer should be skeptical of the proliferation of going out of business sales, hotel sales, rug auctions, and other itinerant sales.

To ensure quality and value always buy from a dealer you trust and is a member of a recognized trade organization. Purchases made today would be made with the idea that this is a rug you love and want in your home rather than as an investment. Investment quality rugs should be left up to only experts who know actually what they are buying. Other concerns when purchasing a rug of a technical nature are:

• Is the rug symmetrical?
• Is the medallion centered in the rug?
• Is the knotting even on the back of the rug?
• Any irregularities can have a definite impact on the value of the rug.
• Does the rug lie flat?
• Is there any damage to the rug i.e. cuts, running colors, missing pile? If defects of a major nature are noted there may also be defects not seen which will also impact the value of the rug?
• A reputable dealer will allow a home trial.
• Look for a dealer with a liberal trade-in policy.