Consumer Rug Buying Tips

Buying a Rug is one of the most informative and objective articles written on the subject of Oriental Rugs.  It was published in Consumer Reports Magazine - August 1999 issue.  A must read for anyone interested in purchasing a rug, or anyone interested in additional information.

Buyer Beware...

1. Itinerant Auctions : Various ploys are used to create a sense of urgency on the part of the consumer such as "liquidation to satisfy bank lien."  Generally held in hotels, the rugs are on consignment from wholesalers that have not been able to sell them to their regular customers because they are of inferior quality.  These auctions are a good way to turn "dead" inventory.  There are no bargains to be had here.
2. Going Out of Business Sales : A "Going Out of Business" sale is another marketing tool.  These "sales" can go on for months or years.  Again, these campaigns intend to create a sense of urgency among customers to buy now.  And as in the itinerant auction, there are seldom any bargains.
3. Deep Discounts : Retailers cannot afford to sell rugs for less than cost and expect to stay in business and make a profit.  There are times that a dealer will have a sale to move old inventory but beware of those that consistently advertise 75%-80% off retail.
4. "Painted Rugs" : "Painting" refers to rugs that have been "cosmetically enhanced" by applying colour to the foundation of the rug as it becomes worn.  It is done to cover or conceal wear on older rugs, often without the buyer's knowledge.  Painting is far less expensive than re-knotting, usually not colourfast, and an expedient way to make a worn rug look better than it actually is.  When buying older rugs, test for "painting" by applying water to a white towel and rub any suspicious worn areas.  If colour transfers to the towel, the rug has been "painted".  Never buy "painted" rugs as they will wear quickly and cannot be cleaned without the "paint" bleeding all over the rug.