7 Expert Tips for Buying Vintage or Antique Rugs

Including antique pieces in room design is a common trend that remains fresh and modernistic. The safest choices to go with for any space are antique rugs because of the wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials available. Vintage rugs bring culture and sophistication to your home — however, you should remain reasonably cautious when buying one. Purchasing a timeless and unique artisan creation is an excellent investment if you know what to look for and how to get the best deal. This article will walk you through 7 expert tips for buying vintage or antique rugs. 

Buy Direct (If You Can)

If you are going on a trip to the Middle Eastern countries, do your research beforehand to find reputable suppliers outside of the tourist market. It will save you from scammers and large commissions of the dealers. After all, what’s better than buying Moroccan, Kurdish, Turkish, and Persian rugs from their birthplace? 

Find a Reputable Dealer 

If buying direct isn’t an option for you, try the next best thing — purchase from an authentic rug dealer. Antique rugs sometimes have wear and tear, which you’d expect your seller to inform you about; therefore, reliability is a must. This is why we recommend rug dealers who have stayed in business for a few years and earned a reputation as authentic dealers. 

Pay Attention to the Edges

If the rug’s edge is frayed, it can unravel very quickly — making it not worth your investment. Additionally, if you’re thinking about repairing frayed edges, keep in mind that it can cost you quite a bit of money. So, pay close attention to the edge of the rugs before closing the deal. 

Look for Signs that the Rug is Handmade

Ask your dealer to show you the back of any piece you are looking at. A handmade rug always has an identical front and back. It is the easiest way to tell a handmade rug and a machine-made rug apart. 

Listen to the Rug

This may sound strange, but there is a good reason for it. If the rug once had a very saturated stain and has been dried without the proper technique, it will feel like cardboard, and you will hear it crack. It means the fiber has rotten, and it is not worth your investment.

Check the Rug’s Paint

Disreputable dealers often put paint on rugs to try and take customers for a ride. To make sure that the rug’s dyes are not fabricated, take a damp cloth and gently rub it along the rug’s surface. If any dye transfers to the cloth, it’s best to walk away.

Watch Out for Signs of Faux-aging

An original vintage rug will always look older next to a brand-new rug that is made to look older. A common method for faux-aging is acid washing that will lead to a washed-out tone. In contrast, a genuine antique rug will maintain its vibrant color despite its age. 

Are you looking for buying vintage or antique rugs with rich stories and backgrounds? Click here to check out our extensive collection of vintage Moroccan rugs available for shipping globally.