Q+A

When you purchase a rug from RugNet, you are assured to be purchasing a high-quality hand-knotted rug at a discounted price. Emmert was devoted to showcasing the beauty and quality of the world’s best made rugs. He prided himself on removing the surcharges added to rugs by middlemen and offering the rugs at “warehouse” prices. Unlike most rugs available online and in stores, Emmert’s collection of rugs are from the looms of master weavers, not mass produced or “market goods.” Each rug was carefully selected not only for its beauty but also for its quality, rarity and value. His family is devoted to continuing his legacy. 

No question about it. Persian rugs hand-knotted in Iran are universally recognized as the finest of all hand-made rugs. Persian rugs feature natural materials, usually wool on a cotton weft, and a single knot technique. Some of the finer rugs utilize silk either just in a rug’s decoration or in the finest examples, for the entire rug. The refined craftsmanship inherent in each Persian rug makes these rugs extremely durable, crafted to pass down to future generations. Watch this video for more information.

When you purchase a high-quality hand-knotted rug, you are making an investment in an heirloom that will last for generations. Don’t take our word for it. Look at the number of fine Persian rugs made 100 years ago available on the market that show little to no wear. RugNet sells rugs most often for less than machine-made rugs available in major home design stores. Unlike store rugs that eventually fall apart, RugNet’s hand-knotted rugs are made to last a lifetime, and more. 

The art of hand-knotted rugs is ancient. When you are paying for a hand-knotted rug, you are investing in quality and craftsmanship honed by generations. A quality hand-knotted rug can take many months or often years to make one rug, depending on the size. They are also made from natural raw materials that are expensive and scarce. Emmert prided himself on offering the best quality rugs for the lowest possible prices, which is reflected in RugNet’s collection.

Antique and vintage rugs are made using only natural fibers and vegetable dyes making them a great choice for people with allergies, or even in baby rooms. 

Rug pads are very important to safely secure rugs of all sizes, particularly small rugs, to stop slippage, folding and curling of your rug. Rugnet recommends a Felt Rubber All Surface Rug Pad. (Rugnet does not receive any commission through your purchase. We offer only as a courtesy. It’s the only rug pad we use in our homes.)Toggle Content

We view any rug crafted around or before 1930 to be antique. If there is any question about the exact birthdate of a rug but it is still old, we view that as vintage. It could be an antique, but in the interest of transparency, we refer to it as vintage. Once the rug is in your house, you will not know the difference, all of RugNet’s rugs are extremely durable and beautiful.

There is a reason antique and vintage hand-knotted rugs continue to circulate and are cherished around the world. They can take a beating. Have kids and pets? We do, too. Our cat loves our vintage rugs and despite her best “work,” there is no mark or flaw on any of our authentic vintage rugs. Kids and spills are quickly forgiven and surprisingly easy to spot clean. If you look around, you’ll see vintage oriental rugs even on outdoor porches (The Claremont Hotel in Maine, I’m looking at you! ;), and other high-traffic areas. 

For basic maintenance, vacuum about every two weeks without a beater bar and preferably in the direction of the nap but no need to be too precious. For smaller rugs in high traffic areas, you may also want to also turn the rug over and vacuum the back. Try to avoid pulling the vacuum along the fringe. This is all common sense. Even rugs made 100 years ago are fairly forgiving.

For washing an entire rug, particularly silk rugs, it’s best to trust a professional oriental rug cleaner in your area. For small spots and stains, baby shampoo is a good option for wool rugs. Dilute a small amount of baby shampoo with water and gently press onto the stain with a cloth and hold for 30 seconds. Blot any excess moisture with a dry cloth or paper towel. Mild dish soap is another good option, particularly for greasy stains.