Rugs, a History of.

The Fascinating History of the Rugs in the UK

When most people think about rugs and carpets, it’s likely that images of far-flung oriental places will instantly jump to mind. But believe it or not there is actually a very rich heritage and history behind the rugs manufactured right here in the UK.

With that in mind, we thought we'd shed some light on the unique and fascinating history of English rugs... 

The first carpet weavers in the UK 

According to most sources, the very first carpet makers were Flemish, and came to England in the 16th Century. Interestingly, many of these settlers came to live in the Norwich area in Norfolk, where they continued to make carpets and rugs. As such, the first carpets made in the UK are sometimes referred to as 'Norwich carpets'. In terms of the designs these carpet weavers chose, many examples seem to be inspired by carpets from around the world -- including India and Persia. The only remaining carpets from this early in the history of rugs are several examples from the Exeter and Axminster areas. Naturally, due to the carpets being over 400 years old, they are kept in extremely controlled conditions -- so you're unlikely to see any adorning a floor near you!

The rise of Axminster carpets

In the year 1755, a man called Thomas Whitty established a factory in Axminster, Devon, and began production of a carpet which still has some visible influences in the machine-made carpets sold today. By the time the factory closed in 1835, many advances in carpet-making technology had been made – including those similar to velvet and chenille methods. Today, Axminster carpet is still available in three different forms: tufted, hand-knotted or machine-woven. It is the latter type that remains the most popular in England.

Modern carpets and rugs in the UK

The heritage of English rugs and carpets which began in places like Axminster and Wilton is still recognisable in the form of machine-woven designs. Generally speaking, the hand-tufted rugs are sourced from places such as Egypt, India and Africa, but due to the Industrial Revolution and advances in machinery within the UK, machine-woven led the way. One of the key benefits of rugs made by machine is that they are highly durable, often lasting more than thirty years.

If you’re in the market for a high quality rug (from the UK or anywhere else), why not check out our full range? Or, if you have any questions, quiz our experts now on 0845 8388638.

Stuck for a Present? The How about a Rug!

3 Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Christmas Rug

With the big day just around the corner, time is running out to secure those perfect Christmas presents.

But just because the festive season is all about giving doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself now and then, right? With that in mind – and to get into the Christmas spirit – we thought we’d take a look at the essential elements for the perfect Christmas rug. So if you’re looking to create a winter wonderland in your own home this December, our recommendations for a Christmas rug should really come in handy.

A seasonal colour scheme

Before you ask: we’re not talking about a Christmas rug that’s adorned with sparkles, tinsel, gold and silver (although if that’s your kind of thing, we won’t stop you). There are some colours that can be regarded as both festive and appropriate all year round, making them perfect for Christmas rugs. Take red and green for example; these are two classically festive colours that lots of rugs feature. The Swing Funky multi-textured rugs include a floral pattern with red and green highlights blended with just a touch of amber – a real contender for a Christmas rug!

A long pile for extra cosiness

What do you think of when you picture Christmas? Perhaps it’s the traditional image of a warm fireplace with cold weather outside? If so, the perfect Christmas rug has to include a thick, cosy texture for that extra touch of the warm and cosy. Any one of the shaggy rugs in our range would be an ideal choice – a great Christmas rug on which to open your presents on Christmas morning! Shaggy rugs are great as Christmas rugs because the long, soft and feathery pile makes them a real pleasure to sit on.

A traditional design for your Christmas rug

Okay, so it might not be ideal to have a rug in your home all year round which features Santa Claus or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy traditional designs. Intricate and ornate patterns such as those you see on our antique rug ranges are ideal for Christmas because they evoke images of a wintry, traditional England – and the blend of reds and greens doesn’t hurt the Christmas rug image either.

If we’ve inspired you to track down the ideal Christmas rug to add to your home this festive season, why not explore our full online rug shop? Or if you have any specific questions, just call our friendly team on 0845 838 8638. Ho, ho, ho!

The Best Black and White Rugs

Monochrome in Your Home: The Best Black and White Rugs

If you’re looking for the latest in interior design trends, you can’t miss out on monochrome.

In fact, it’s not just limited to interiors: the monochrome colour scheme can be seen in fashion design, too. At Rugs Direct, we aim to offer the freshest and most in-demand designs, which is why we stock plenty of eye-catching black and white rugs for you to choose from. But with so much choice, how can you decide which black and white rug is the one for you? Well, with a view to helping you make a better decision, we’ve chosen a handful of our favourite monochrome rugs – so let’s make a start!

Tashen Black and White Rug

For real texture and true character, you can’t beat a Tashen black and white rug. With its unmistakeable chunky pile, this rug has been designed to really catch the eye. A peppering of black and white can be a superb focal point for any room in your home. These rugs are made from the finest 100% New Zealand wool, and are easily one of our top choices for black and white rugs. See this black and white rug in our shop.

Monochrome Black Grey rug

Fancy a splash of geometry in your home? Then this black and white rug should fit the bill perfectly. With a design that’s made up of irregularly placed squares and triangles, this is a truly monochrome rug from the masters at Arte Espina. Hand-tufted in China and made from espirelle, this is a hard-wearing black and white rug which is totally colour-fast. Find out more now.

Splash Elements Ivory Rug

Nobody creates black and white rug designs quite like Elements, and this Ivory Rug is living proof. The contemporary and head-turning design is quite literally impossible to miss, and that’s paired effortlessly with a soft but thick pile made from 100% wool. This is a black and white rug you can really be proud of – and it’s perfect for a modern home. Get yours today.

Football Rug

We couldn’t end this post without something for this kids – and this technically falls into the black and white rug category. A football rug through-and-through, and made by the well-known brand Arte Espina, this black and white rug is perfect for the footie fan in your life. Although we’d probably recommend it for children – unless you’ve got a big kid in your house! Learn more about this rug.

We hope we’ve inspired you to check out our range of black and white rugs, but if none of the above tick your boxes, you can find plenty more in our shop. If you have any questions, please contact our crack team of rug specialists on 0845 8388638.

Rugs: The Perfect Present this Christmas

Kids’ Rugs: The Perfect Present This Christmas

With sleigh-bells on the horizon and the temperature rapidly dropping, it can only mean one thing – Christmas is well on the way.

And here at Rugs Direct we want to make sure yours goes off with a bang. One way to do that is with the perfect gifts, and if you’ve got a child or two who fancy redecorating their bedrooms (let’s face it, which of them don’t?), then we have the kids’ rugs for you. With that in mind, let’s explore some of our most popular kids’ rugs…

Stripey Ted Kids’ Rug

Perfect for kids who are still in the nursery, this wonderful Stripey Ted Kids’ Rug is packed with character. Shaped like a classic teddy bear and made up of bright, vibrant colours, this is a kids’ rug that will really stand out and make a lasting impression. Ideal for a boy or a girl, the rug is made from hand-tufted 100% wool.

Arte Espina Kids Collection

If you want to be spoiled for choice in terms of the design on your kids’ rugs, you’ll love the Arte Espina Kids Collection. Adorned with colourful characters, these are kids’ rugs that demand to be seen, with complex scenes that kids will just love to explore themselves. If you’ve got a budding builder in your family, they’ll love the kids rug we have featuring a big yellow digger – a real favourite!

Capri Guitar Kids’ Rug

If you’re shopping for a slightly older child, we’ve got plenty on offer for them too – including this eye-catching Capri Guitar Kids’ Rug. Designed with the unmistakable graphic of a guitar in deep grey with just a dash of red, this is a kids’ rug with a real urban vibe. Made from 100% polypropylene pile, this rug is made from an exclusive Maclon fibre that makes it soft to the touch and easy to clean – the perfect kids’ rug!

Arte Espina Fairytale Kids Rug

Our final favourite kids’ rug for Christmas is perfect if you have a little princess in your household. Emblazoned with a fairytale princess castle and pink pony, this really is a rug that’s made for a little girl. The Arte Espina Fairytale Kids Rug has been hand-tufted in China and is made to last.

We hope you’ve got a fresh batch of ideas for your kids’ rug present this Christmas, but if you’re still unsure, why not explore our full range? If you have any questions, please contact our friendly team of rug experts on 0845 8388638.

Rugs on a Budget

Rugs on a Budget: The Best Way to Dress Your Home for Less

Believe it or not, the words 'budget' and 'cheap' are not at all synonymous – at least not in the case of the rugs we offer here at Rugs Direct.

In fact, in our experience, we've found that some of the best examples of our products are budget rugs. That’s why we thought we’d offer you the rundown of some of the very best budget rugs you can buy. What does this mean for you? Well, you can dress your home in style without breaking the bank.

Keep it simple with Skye Rugs

Sometimes you don’t need an ornate pattern or an intricate design to bring something special to a room. That’s why one of our favourite budget rugs is the affordable range of Skye rugs. Hand-made in India with 100% polyester, these rugs feature flat colours that will blend seamlessly into any room. If you’re looking for simplicity along with your budget rugs, this one’s for you. Oh, and they’re available in a range of classic colours including teal, cream and mulberry which makes them ideal budget rugs for any home.

Add a touch of visual flair with Nina Rugs

If a plain flat colour is a little too ‘vanilla’ for your tastes, another recommended budget rug is the range of Nina Rugs. These are hand-made rugs crafted in Egypt using a polypropylene pile which makes these budget rugs truly durable. The depth of the pile allows for an eye-catching range of patterns and colours that really make these pieces shine. If you’re looking for a rug that will stand the test of time but go easy on your wallet, Nina Rugs are the answer.

Budget rugs for the practically minded

When you’re not too bothered about the visual design of the rug itself, it opens plenty of doors for true durability. So if you’re looking for a budget rug that can be tested to destruction and be affordable, we thoroughly recommend the Sisal Rug range. Machine-made and sourced from China, these budget rugs also have an anti-slip backing that means that even when placed on a smooth wooden floor, they’ll always stay firmly in place.

To discover the full range of budget rugs in our shop, just click here. Have a question about any of our products, or simply rugs in general? Call our friendly team of rug and carpet experts on 0845 8388638.

Modern Vintage Rugs

Modern Vintage Rugs: Our Favourite Contradiction in Terms

To talk about any item being vintage and modern at the same time may seem like something of a contradiction – but it’s a very current phenomenon, and it’s happening with rugs too.

As trends and tastes have evolved within the world of rug design, older designs have tended to be left behind. However, there are now plenty of manufacturers out there who are recreating the essence of vintage rugs in designs for today. Of course, the benefits of vintage rugs as a consumer are significant: you’re able to enjoy the vintage rug design and benefit from the latest in build quality technology too. With all of this in mind, let’s take some time to look at our favourite modern vintage rugs.

Heriz Burnt Orange Rug

Designed by world-renowned rug designer Louis de Poortere, the Heriz Burnt Orange vintage rug is certainly one of our favourites here at Rugs Direct. Made using a unique flatweave pile, this is a vintage rug that’s not only celebrating the love of bright, vivid colours, but also the intricate patterning and detail that’s immediately visible on this eye-catching rug.

Multi-Colour Vintage Rug

Another showing from Louis de Poortere, the Multi-Colour Vintage Rug is an exploration of the ever-popular patchwork designs that made such an impact a few decades back. With hemmed edges and an anti-slip coating, this vintage rug is a perfect example of the classic blending seamlessly with the retro designs. With each block of the patchwork boasting a different pattern, this is a real head-turner of a vintage rug and will blend flawlessly with any surroundings – even the most contemporary ones.

Young Urbanite Beetle Green Rug

If you want something that really stands out and has that unmistakeable vintage rug vibe, the Young Urbanite Beetle Green is an ideal choice. Featuring an ornate pattern that instantly harks back to the fashionable designs seen in the 1960s, this is a real lesson in how to do a vintage rug right. And the intense green finish of the flatweave pile is the perfect way to create a real focal point in any room of the house – and is ideal for injecting a vibrant vintage touch too.

Have we inspired you to take a closer look at the range of vintage rugs out there? If so, why not take a look at our wide range today? Or, if you have any questions about vintage rugs or anything else, simply call us today on 0845 8388638.

Huge Rugs, Tiny Rugs or Something In-between: Which is Right for You?

Huge Rugs, Tiny Rugs or Something In-between: Which is Right for You?

Picking out the perfect interior for your home, whether it’s a brand new place or you’re giving it a little facelift, is never an easy task. There are plenty of different elements that require careful consideration. If you’re trying to finalise the décor for your living room or lounge, for example, you’ve probably reached the point whereby you’re looking at rugs. As something of an authority on all things ‘rug’, we’d like to offer some helpful advice on one specific area of this: the size of your chosen rug. Lots of folks these days jump straight into buying huge rugs when really the space only requires a medium-sized rug. Here are our helpful tips.

Modern Rugs and Modern Art: A Match Made in Heaven?

Modern Rugs and Modern Art: A Match Made in Heaven?

When it comes to creating the ideal interior for your home, you’re faced with a lot of different choices.

From the colour of the walls to the type of doors and windows you’d like, there are plenty of decisions to be made. But there are two aspects of interior design that can complement each other in ways you may not have realised: modern rugs and modern art. Let’s look at why these two seemingly disparate aspects to your home can actually come together to create something truly special. Read on Modern Rugs and Modern Art.. 

Coloured Cubes

Do Traditional Rugs still have a place in 2014?

Do Traditional Rugs Still Have a Place in 2014?

With a strong focus on modern rugs in today’s marketplace, it’s easy to see why some people may believe that the popularity of traditional rugs is waning. But more than that, there is also a question about whether or not these traditional rugs even have a place in the modern home. Our opinion may be somewhat predictable, but based on our many years as market leaders in the rug and carpet industry, we can tell you categorically that traditional rugs very much do have a place in today’s home – and we’d like to explain why. Please click the link above to find out more

Whats in a Rug?

What's In A Rug? The Process of Making a Woollen Modern Rug

Rugs have been around for centuries, and – believe it or not – the process of creating them hasn’t actually changed all that much. With this in mind, let’s take some time to look at exactly how a modern woollen rug is made.

To find our more about how a rug is made please click the link.

Buying Rugs Online ; A guide for a buyer

A buyer’s guide to purchasing rugs online

The benefits of buying new rugs online are clear: lower prices, more choice, and a lot of saved time.

But there are also certain things you can do in a bricks-and-mortar store that you can’t do online – so how can you be sure you’re making the right buying decisions? We thought it’d be useful to put together a quick buyer’s guide for anyone looking to buy rugs online. So click the link and read our new guide.

New Rugs from Plantation Rug Co now Available at Rugs Direct

Rugs Direct are pleased to announce that the new 2014 ranges from Plantation Rug Co are now available to buy.

Visit Rugs Direct to view the new ranges.

Cubes for example, is a wonderful new range that would be a great addition to any living room.

Or Undecided? So is this Rug! Take a look at this wonderful new rug.

Blooming Lovely new rugs to buy online at Rugs direct

If you are looking for a real splash of colour in your life and love flowers then we have a new range for you, from Rugs Direct online.

These Modern Rugs are wonderfully colourful and would add something to any living room or bedroom alike.

http://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/rugs/funky/bloom

These modern rugs are creating a storm in Europe and now rugs direct are bringing them to the UK. They are bold and will be a talking point for friends, family and guests. Bold enough to sit in any room and make a statement we think.

The Arte Espina 'Bloom' range brings bold modern floral designs to your floor. Each rug is handtufted with 100% 'Espirelle' Acrylic, and a heavy pile weight of 3250 grams per sq/m.

'Espirelle' is an extremly durable and heardwearing material with the look and feel of wool. Espirelle is also easy to clean and maintain, most stains can be removed with water only. The TÜV/TFI quality seal and Öko-Tex standard 100 guarantee that the rugs in the collection conform with the pollutant norms, do not pose a health hazard and stand for a high-quality product.

The designs come in many different colours and 5 standard sizes, so you will be easily able to find one that will fit into your room.

Hallway runners can help make an entrace

As you come home every night you look at your hallway. You know it needs attention, but having the carpet re-laid is going to be a big job. You will have to move everything, finding space for furniture to go, and then you will have wait until the fitter can fit you in. However, in moments you could fix the problem yourself.

http://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/runners/funky/jazz/stripes-purple

Hallways and other high traffic areas can quickly show the signs of a trodden path, the flattening of the pile in your carpet in the line people walk. 

Yet the rest of the carpet looks perfect. This is the time when you just need to add a rug or hallway runner. It is fast and simple, and buying rugs online really couldn't be simpler. You can make a room look new without doing that much, except putting the rug down.

Either a traditional or modern rug can do the trick. This can transform the area by either making a statement or blending into its surroundings. 

Changing the entrance to your house with a hallway runner will make a great first impression to guests. A light rug in a darker room with no windows may add light and depth to a room, while a bright room may need a rug will bright colours. Buying a hallway runner online could not be easier.

http://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/runners/traditional/royal-classic 

Matching rugs for each room by using Rugs Direct Online

Matching your rugs with each room is an art, and with some simple thought, modern rugs can transform areas of the house.

http://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/rugs/modern/vintage/8109---sunbird

If your living room or area has a door on to the garden then it is great to try and connect the two, when the doors are wide open. Now summer is approaching (I know some would say it is here!), it is time to start thinking about how will you entertain this summer if, just as you are outside the temperature drops a little and people would prefer to be inside or that light shower arrives just as the BBQ has been lit. You don’t want to lose that garden feel or connection as your guests enjoy the evening.

Using bright colours in your rug that match the flowers in the garden is a great way to connect that living room and the garden. Or if you have a hanging basket outside any bedroom window, match the rug with the window box arrangement and the eye will be drawn to both and create the connection with the outside.

A fresh bright new rug next to the outside door may also encourage guests to take shoes off as they enter the house, especially good when your parties are interrupted by light rain. Then you can provide your guests with a wonderful luxurious feel as their bare feet step into your house. 

The other benefit is if people step in from the garden onto the rug first without removing their shoes, then once they have gone you can remove the rug for cleaning and your carpet or laminate will still look wonderful for the rest of the week.

Buying rugs online can be a great way to assess which rug in which room, as you can walk around with the laptop or tablet and see if the colours are the right ones or that particular room

http://www.rugsdirect.co.uk/rugs/funky/funky/8110-75