4 Must-Know Steps for A Perfect Custom Rug
Daydreaming of the perfect area rug again? Of course, you are.
Your space is almost there: the ideal couch, a coffee table that's just right, stylish bookshelves, and those dreamy curtains. But there's a missing piece - the rug that brings it all together.
You've seen rugs that are either too small or ones that dominate the room, and your family swears you’re just too picky.
But it’s not a matter of being about being picky; it’s about finding the best fit for your home. What you need is a custom area rug, something beyond the ordinary, off-the-shelf options.
The process doesn’t have to be daunting either. Let's walk you through four essential steps to help you create that rug, the one that's been living in your daydreams.
Gather Your Inspo
Creating your dream area rug starts with inspiration.
Flip through the latest issues of interior design magazines, scroll through Pinterest boards filled with home decor ideas, and browse Instagram for trending styles. These platforms are treasure troves of creativity, showcasing everything from bold patterns to minimalist chic.
But don't just stop at digital browsing. Visit local carpet stores and ask to see their portfolios for real-life examples. Seeing the variety of designs and craftsmanship can be truly inspiring and might spark an idea you hadn't considered.
When you find something you like testing samples in your home setting is crucial. Lighting and surrounding decor can dramatically affect the appearance of a rug so it’s imperative to bring those samples home to see how they interact with your space throughout the day.
If the sample size feels too small, it’s worth asking for a larger piece — installers often have extra pieces or showrooms might have remnants for you to borrow.
Select the Right Pad
What’s underneath matters.
You can have the most opulent rug imaginable, but if it’s paired with the wrong pad, it will be nothing more than a headache.
A quality 40oz pad is the standard recommendation for its perfect blend of comfort and durability. This thickness provides a plush feel underfoot while ensuring your rug withstands the test of time.
If you're opting not to use a pad, don't overlook the importance of grips. These are essential for keeping your rug in place, preventing slips and ensuring safety. Grips are especially crucial for rugs placed on hardwood or tile floors, where slipping is a common concern.
Map Out Your Terrain
Arguably, the biggest perk of designing your own area rug is the freedom to make it any size you could imagine.
Start by analyzing your room's layout and features. Consider the flow of traffic, the arrangement of furniture, and any architectural elements like fireplaces or built ins.
The goal is to complement and enhance your space, not overwhelm it. This is also the time to decide what should be highlighted and maybe what shouldn’t be (looking at you damaged hardwood).
Most of the time people decide to go with a rug that leaves about 3-6 inches to the wall all the way around. You, however, might decide to have yours with a few feet to the wall.
Whether you have an irregularly shaped room or specific dimensions in mind, custom rugs offer the flexibility to meet your exact needs. Don't be afraid to think outside the traditional rectangular box - your rug can be as unique as your space.
Here’s an example from the Carpet Workroom.
No matter what your needs are, it’s doable. But the more you can have those needs and even some ideas ready, the more your installer will be able to guide you on the process.
Maintain With Love
A beautiful rug is an investment, and like any investment, it requires care.
To ensure even wear, rotate your rug periodically. This is especially important in high-traffic areas, where footfall can lead to uneven wear and tear.
For those intricate custom shapes, use furniture sliders to rearrange your setting occasionally. This practice helps prevent the formation of fixed wear patterns and keeps your rug looking fresh.
Lastly, avoid taping down the edges of your rug. While it might seem like a good idea to keep it in place, taping can hinder the rug's ability to breathe. Over time, this can lead to the development of bubbles or wrinkles, detracting from the beauty and lifespan of your rug.
Design a Rug That Speaks to You
Picture yourself a month from now:
You’re hosting a dinner party, and your home feels complete. Your guests are in awe of your beautifully decorated space.
No shame or closing off rooms, no, this time you’re giddy to show off your design skills.
“Where did you get that gorgeous rug?”, they inevitably ask.
“It’s a custom piece”, you reply with a smile.
This could be you, all because you made the choice to start the design process and make your dreams a reality.
With these tips, your dream rug isn’t just a possibility, it’s within reach. So go ahead, start designing, and soon you'll step onto a rug that's not just in your home, but a piece of your heart.