NW RUGS - So Much More...

Hadji Jalili Revivals (HJR)

2011-02-17T11:56:00.000-08:00

The Hadji Jalili workshops were world renowned for producing impeccable Tabriz carpets during the latter part of the 19th Century and into the first quarter of the 20th Century. Their workshops were located in Tabriz, Northwest Iran, and produced fine quality rugs that were characterized by exceptional workmanship. Because of their importance, these rugs were primarily woven for prominent families and elite institutions.

Quality of weave and texture, uniqueness of color, and originality of design are synonymous with Hadji Jalili Pieces. Aesthetically, these carpets are rated among the best on the market. The original Hadji Jalili Tabriz carpets are highly sought by international antique dealers and collectors. Due to the scarcity of these timeless carpets, especially in large sizes, they can command a price into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Co-founded by the great-grandson of Masterweaver Hadji Jalili, HJR have revived the Hadji Jalili Tabriz carpets of yesteryear. For over five years, they have dedicated themselves to creating carpets as close to the original Hadji Jalili masterpieces as artistically possible. Accuracy in the weave, the use of signature colors, precision of scale and design have all contributed to the success of this production.

The custom capabilities are endless. Virtually any size, shape, color and design can be produced to exact specifications, including oversized carpets and pieces of unusual dimensions. Hadji Jalili Revivals have created world class carpets that will be the collectible antique of the future, while honoring the original productions.

Key Characteristics of Hadji Jalili Revivals

Only the finest blend of Persian wool is used in the hand weaving of these carpets. Great care has gone into this production to capture the essence of the original carpets but also to suit today's market. The combination of the special weaving technique of the Indian weavers, the hand twisting of the yarn and the choice of Persian highland wool guarantee durability and resilience. These rugs are a beautiful enhancement to any residential setting and are exceptional when displayed in commercial and hospitality settings.

Sizes: 4' x 10' 5' x 7' 6' x 9' 5' x 12' 8' x 10' 9' x 12' 10' x 14' 12' x 15' 12' x 18' 13' x 17' 14' x 17' 14' x 19' 15' x 20' 14' x 22' 15' x 22' 15' x 24'

See the entire collection here.

Campaign Desks: Practicality, Functionality and Style all in one!

2010-12-03T14:11:00.001-08:00

What makes these desks especially useful in today’s homes is the size and utility of them. They can be tucked in a corner and close compactly. They open easily and facilitate a laptop perfectly. The wood finish and tones complement any color scheme and since they are “historical pieces” they are timeless and blend nicely into the overall décor.

Picture a young officer on campaign in one of Britain’s many colonies, enduring the sweltering heat of Africa or India all the while missing the comforts of home. A campaign desk much like this one, decorated in burl and inspired by the Edwardian period would likely have accompanied him.

An antiqued wood fold-over campaign desk, the hinged top opening to reveal four fitted drawers, on twin baluster turned end supports and sleigh feet joined by a pegged stretcher. (a) Also available in 'faded chestnut' antiqued wood. CB71004

Campaign furniture was built to last and to fold up for ease of travel, as well as being able to withstand the rigors of the campaign trail. The box-like top protects the interior and folds open to reveal pigeonholes for letters and frames for photos – perfect places to keep pictures of a true love left behind.

An Edwardian cherry campaign desk, flip top enclosing fitted interior, square tapering legs, undertier. A in 'ashdown distressed' leather, 'buffalo distressed' leather and ‘oxblood distressed' leather. 7105-101

Perhaps late at night, by lantern light, the young man would sit at his desk, gaze upon these pictures and pour his heart and soul into letters destined for a lucky young lady waiting for him back in the gardens of England.

An ash burl campaign desk, the fold-over top opening to reveal a leather inlaid writing surface, on twin turned end supports with down-swept legs joined by a turned stretcher in 'ashdown distressed' leather. The original is 19th Century French. 7105-169AD

An ash burl campaign desk, the fold-over top opening to reveal a leather inlaid writing surface, with a frieze drawer on square tapering legs with spade feet in 'buffalo distressed' leather. The original is Edwardian. 7105-173BD

If you are drawn to more substantial sized pieces…

An Indian mahogany bureau desk, the sloping fall enclosing a plain desk surface and a fitted interior of drawers and pigeon holes above lopers and drawers with brass handles enclosing a concave knee-hole with further drawers, on bracket feet. The original late George III. 7105-163

A George III mahogany pedestal desk, brass gallery leather inset top, ratcheted reading slope, three frieze & six pedestal drawers, plinth bases. Available in multiple leathers. AL71015

Visit any one of our showrooms to view this exceptional fine furniture, along with many other tables, chairs chests…from Theodore Alexander – a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship.

Bring Out the Animal in You...

2010-11-18T16:03:00.000-08:00

Bring new life to your home by adding an accent like a cheetah, tiger, or zebra print rug. These prints normally come in neutral colors because they are the colors of these animals in the wild. Therefore, it is easy to match them to any color scheme or style you already have in place.

However, nowadays it isn't that hard to find animal prints in a full range of colors outside the neutral zone.

The Serengeti Collection by Momeni: Serengeti is an elegant collection of hand-tufted rugs that resemble the beautiful animal prints found in the African outback. Gorgeous giraffe, tiger and zebra prints in distinctive color combinations make this group of rugs irresistible. Hand-tufted of 100% wool.

Animal print decorating items look great in a modern or a traditional décor. You don't need to make big changes to incorporate these designs into your home. For example, a set of animal print tableware will liven up your dining room at meal time or when entertaining, but will otherwise have little or no effect on your decorating scheme. You can choose to use table linens in animal prints for a more permanent change in your décor.

But still, the surest way to spice up your dining room, a place for ferocious appetites, is with an animal print area rug.

New Wave Collection by Momeni: Hand-tufted by expert artisans using a special blend of the highest quality wools, these rugs have the softest of hands and a shine that is unsurpassed. Many New Wave designs feature hand carving for added depth and a Tibetan-like weave, mostly found in hand-knotted rugs, but expertly achieved in these hand-tufted pieces.

The Dimensions Collection by Nourison: Modern abstract designs are expertly handmade from 100% premium quality wool, and then hand carved for added dimension. Bold geometrics and rich modern colors make an artistic statement in any area. Handmade & 100% Wool.

Whichever collection you choose from, you will bring a new thrill to your living space that you and your family and friends can enjoy for years to come - AND, you never have to worry about the look going out of style - Animal prints are timeless!

Visit any one of our showrooms to view these rugs and many others in stock. And don't forget our price guarantee - We match all printed and internet advertised prices on like merchandise.

OH, and BTW - don't forget to FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

Oushak Rugs - The Perfect Complement

2010-11-16T15:53:00.001-08:00

Oushak rugs originally came from the small town of Oushak (Ushak, Uschak), just south of Istanbul, Turkey. Oushak has been a center of production of rugs since the 15th century and today these beautiful area rugs are produced in Iran and India as well.

The design of Oushak rugs are Persian influenced. Before the 15th century Oushak rugs were woven by nomads for practical everyday uses. After the design revolution took place in the late 15th century, area rugs were made in Oushak for commercial purposes as there was easy access to superb wool and natural dyes.

These rugs tend to be more loosely woven than other, more formal Persian rugs, and are always woven with the Ghiordes knot. These rugs are equally appropriate for both formal and informal design schemes, as they tend to be subdued in tone and color, with some exceptions.

These rugs are a perfect complement to Arts & Crafts (Craftsmen) style homes – especially popular in the Northwest. Visit any one of our showrooms to view our large selection of these lovely hand knotted rugs.

COLOR FORECASTING

2010-11-09T16:59:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder how color trends are determined?
Here's how - PANTONE Video: Find out how we forecast new color trends.

Nepalese & Tibetan Collections

2010-11-06T13:11:00.000-07:00

Nepalese Collection: Hand-woven by artisans on the high mountains of Nepal, the Nepalese Collection is inspired by Art Deco and early modern aesthetic environments. The extra lush pile of the Nepalese rugs feature hand-spun Himalayan wool interwoven with silk accents.

This Tibetan Weave collection brings an ancient weave and fine materials to the present sensibilities of today's interior design. Simple geometric patterns, with muted accents, soft shades and neutral earth tones, are the main visual characteristics of this series.

CLICK HERE to view more

Woven, knotted, tufted - what’s the difference?

2010-11-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

In a hand-knotted rug, colored yarns are wrapped by hand onto individual warp threads. They are secured by one or more rows of weft. The long pile yarns, which create the design, are sheared to uniform length. Persian and oriental rugs are hand-knotted. All hand-knotted carpets may be generically referred to as “oriental” rugs, regardless of design, because the technique of hand-knotted originated in Asia.

The type of structure familiar to most people is the flat-weave. In a flat-woven rug, colored weft yarns are woven through the warps to create the design. These rugs have no pile. Remember those potholder looms you had as a child? Those potholders were flatweaves. Flatweaves are available at all price points in many different materials - wool, cotton, hemp, etc. Kilims, dhurries, and tapestries are flat-woven.

Tufted or “hand-tufted” rugs are increasingly common. A tufting gun, which works like an oversized needle, is used to punch the yarns through a pre-woven grid foundation. When the rug is finished the back is given a coat of latex to secure the yarns, then covered with cloth or canvas. This is a much faster, less labor-intensive process which does not require any particular skill. These rugs may appear like hand-knotted rugs from the pile side, but are much less durable than hand-knotted rugs.

Another type of rug is the machine-made, in which rugs are woven on mechanical looms. Many of these are made from synthetic yarns such as olefin or nylon. There are some better-quality machine-made rugs that are serviceable in certain applications. Again, they may appear similar to genuine hand-knotted rugs on the pile side, but are not as durable, nor are they unique as they are mass produced.

Many thanks to Guildcraft for this informative article.
© 2009 Guildcraft Carpets | Northfield Carpets International.

Why do hand-knotted (oriental) rugs cost so much?

2010-10-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

The short answer is: Quality. An oriental rug is more akin to a work of art than a commodity, and making a hand-knotted rug is an extremely labor-intensive process. (All hand-knotted carpets may be generically referred to as “oriental” rugs, regardless of design, because the technique of hand-knotting originated in Asia, and that is where most of them are made.)

Once a rug’s design and specifications are determined, the design is graphed out on paper (known as a “cartoon”) for the weavers to follow. Yarn is carded and spun, often by hand, and then plied to the appropriate thickness. Next comes the dyeing of the yarn in as many colors as required. Dyeing and drying of the yarn can take ten days or more, depending upon the weather; rain and/or high humidity extends the dyeing and drying times.

The most common material used in creating the pile of an oriental rug is wool. Some are made of silk, or a mixture of wool and silk, and sometimes other fibers as well. While the type of wool used varies from region to region in the rug-weaving countries, it is all derived from descendants of the same ancient breed of fat-tailed Asiatic sheep. Most of these sheep live at high altitudes and/or under extreme conditions, which produces some of the strongest and most resilient wool in the world.

Most carpets are produced on vertical looms, with the weavers sitting in front of the warp threads with the cartoon tucked behind or pinned above. The actual knotting of the carpet consists of tightly wrapping the dyed yarns around a pair of warps, cutting the yarn, then repeating this process horizontally, knot by knot, for the entire width of the foundation. After a row of knots is completed, a weft is passed in and out over the warps and tamped down to secure the knots. As a general rule, one weaver works on a portion of carpet 24”-30” wide; knotting of the carpet occurs at the rate of a few square inches to about 2/3 square foot per weaver per day, depending upon the fineness of the knotting.

When the carpet is completed, it is cut from the loom and sheared to an even pile length, then given a gentle wash to remove loose fibers and any dye residue. Washing and finishing is integral to the process of making a carpet, is again dependent upon weather conditions for the drying of the carpet.

The quality and durability of the hand-knotting process remains technically unsurpassed, which is part of the reason why there are surviving carpet fragments that are many hundreds of years old. The hand-knotting process results in a much denser pile than even the best quality machine-made rug, since the pile is actually knotted to the warp and secured by the weft, not simply interlocked through the foundation. Hand-knotted rugs wear much longer, are more soil- and stain-resistant, and will clean up better than any rug made by machine. When machine-made pile wears down, the visible result is a threadbare foundation. When oriental carpet pile wears down, over many decades, the color and pattern remain distinct because the “collars” of the knots, which form the base of the pile, are still secured to the foundation and conceal the warp and weft.

Oriental rugs have a pleasing imperfection, with each piece varying slightly from the next. Sizes are not exact, and borders may not be perfectly straight. These are not flaws, but important indicators of a handcrafted product. A typical 8×10 rug contains 500,000 to 700,000 hand-tied knots.

A quality oriental rug will never be made by children. Regardless of the “small fingers” myth, children do not have the advanced skills necessary to produce finer-quality carpets. However, many inexpensive orientals are being imported in bulk and sold in warehouse-style furniture stores. There is always a correlation between the cost of labor and materials, and the cost of the finished carpet. If a new carpet is being sold at an unbelievably low price, it is likely that it is either made with inferior materials, perhaps with child labor, or both.

In summary, the labor costs of skilled weavers, and the quality of the materials used, is what makes hand-knotted carpets more expensive than their machined or tufted counterparts. Hand-knotted carpets are simply the best available.

Many thanks to GuildCraftRugs for this informative article.

Caring For Your Investment - Rug Cleaning

2010-10-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

Handmade (hand-knotted) rugs are works of art and in many cases are generational investments. Proper care is essential for long lasting beauty and enjoyment of your rugs. Wool is a strong and resilient fiber, one of the strongest and most durable of all fibers. This means that your rug can take a great deal of wear without damage. For the most part, you will only need to do regular vacuuming and spot cleaning of spills to keep your rug looking lovely for several years.

Every 8-10 years you will want to have your rug professionally cleaned. Doing so will bring out the natural beauty of the rug that will closely match the look it had when you first purchased it. The rug will most likely be softer and the patina over time heightens the inherent artistry of the piece. See the video below which shows the "immersion" process for cleaning rugs.

NW Rugs offers Rug Cleaning and Repair Services
for ALL rug types.

Contact the showroom closest to you for details.

Rugs Keep House Warm & Heating Costs Down

2010-10-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

With rising fuel costs and an increased concern for the environment, many people are turning down their thermostats and finding alternative ways to stay warm. Gas and electric heaters as well as oil burners consume a lot of money and there are more economical ways to stay warm in the house with a little ingenuity.

Don't just take our word for it...here's what customers have said about using area rugs to control heat -

Rugs will definitely keep your floors warmer. We pulled up all our ratty carpet a few years ago and are still using the orignal hardwood floors for now while we decide what to do with them. I put some area rugs down in front of the sofa and chairs and walkways to keep our feet warmer in the winter! Rugs will help keep your heating bill down because they will insulate the cold floors. – JillBeth

I find that area rugs are needed especially in the winter to keep the house warm. By adding area rugs on tip of wood floors instead of installing carpet, you can give the room a look of its own without sacrificing your resale value. – Andrea

Putting up curtains and putting down a rug can block drafts and make floors warmer. The sun is a great natural source of warmth so remove anything that is blocking it from getting in your house. Some people put a dark rug in a sunny area of their house to absorb as much heat as possible. A dark rug will absorb the sun's heat and help keep a room warm. – Gail

There is nothing better that you could do to improve the warmth of your house than to buy a few area rugs. You could put one area rug under your breakfast table so that your entire family is able to keep their feet warm while eating. Contemporary area rugs also look great around the house and will do an awesome job at keeping your dogs and cats warm during cold months. Our small dog absolutely loves cuddling up on the area rug that we have in our dining room because it keeps him nice and warm. – Jordon

Whether you have made a conscious decision to turn the heat down, or your heat is down because of a malfunction, it's important to get creative and find ways to stay warm. A cold house is never comfortable, but there are ways to stay warm without a heating system.

Visit our website to see some of the many rugs we have in stock for you to choose from this winter. With 20,000 rugs you will have no problem finding one that is just right for you and your family this winter. www.nwrugs.com

Wool is a non-allergenic fiber

2010-09-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Health professionals sometimes recommend that allergy and asthma patients remove rugs from their homes. But those recommendations are generally based on faulty assumptions. In fact, clean, dry, well-maintained rugs actually improve air quality.

Rugs act as a trap for airborne particles.

Professional Testing Labs studied the distribution of airborne dust associated with normal activities on hard and soft flooring surfaces. Their findings showed that walking on hard surfaces disturbed more particles. These particles became airborne and entered the breathing zone. In contrast, surfaces covered in rugs or carpet trapped more particles so that walking disturbed fewer particles. Result: less dust in the breathing zone over carpeted floors.

Click here for The Facts about Carpet/Rugs and Asthma and Allergy.

Making An Inspiration Reality

2010-08-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

Many of us browse interior design or home decorating magazines and websites looking for inspiration. Sometimes we find something. Sometimes we retreat, telling ourselves “I can’t get that look. I wouldn’t know where to begin.” Sometimes we tear a picture out and “file it away” for when we get around to the re-decorating project.

One evening in September 2008, while at the opera, a gentleman sat flipping through the program before the curtain went up. His eye landed on an ad for NW Rugs. He had discovered what he had been looking for …the living room in the picture was exactly how he wanted his SW Portland living room to look. He saved the picture. Flash forward to 2010, when he and his wife set upon the task of re-doing their living room to match the photo ad.

(the inspiration photo/ad - creases and all)

The couple contacted our Tanasbourne Showroom and told their story to our design consultant, Jacque Hubl. She immediately recognized that the rug in the picture was no longer available. This of course did not deter Ms. Hubl from the hunt for a rug that would meet the couple’s need and desire. The couple had begun sourcing the furniture and the rug was one of the last pieces to go into the finished room.

Choosing the rug last can be challenging but not daunting. Often designers begin with the rug and pull all the complementary colors, textures and patterns from the rug. Fortunately, this couple was clear on what they wanted and had a picture to work from, so that made the search much less challenging. With Ms. Hubl’s assistance, they selected an excellent "near-match" in the form of a beautiful wool contemporary rug from the New Wave Collection by Momeni.

(The inspiration realized)

It is true, duplicating what you find in a picture or on HGTV exactly can be difficult. However, achieving the same feel, style and overall impact is not. With the assistance of a design consultant or experienced sales professional who is willing to work with the client as long as it takes to see the project to completion, re-creating a magazine quality look can be achieved.

We at NW Rugs pride ourselves on the level of service we provide our designers and clients. Perhaps you are trying to re-create a look you have seen. Bring in pictures and/or any color swatches and paint chips you have and our team of experts will work closely with you until your inspiration becomes a reality. We have seven locations to serve you. We're here to help!

Reintroducing a Luxury Fiber to a Changing World

2010-08-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

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New Zealand wool is a sustainable natural fiber with outstanding beauty, performance, maintenance and health benefits.

Today’s discerning consumers are looking for more than superior quality. Increasingly, they are seeking authentic, natural products imbued with integrity and sustainability.

NW Rugs offers several collections created using New Zealand wool, which is universally considered one of the finest in the world. We believe our clients appreciate our commitment to bringing the best products available to the market.

Integrity: New Zealand wool is grown in open pastureland following sustainable land use and animal friendly practices, resulting in fiber that is natural, renewable and biodegradable.

Health: New Zealand wool is non-allergenic and its natural properties provide inherent fire resistance, air purification and moisture control, creating an exceptionally safe and healthy indoor environment.

Comfort: New Zealand wool’s natural insulating properties result from wool’s unique biological structure, thereby reducing heat loss, condensation and noise levels to create a welcoming and comfortable ambiance.

Beauty: New Zealand wool’s superior quality enables extensive design, color and pattern flexibility, while wool’s natural ability to shrug off dirt and spring back into shape after crushing ensures long lasting good looks to complement and enhance any room setting.

Two of many NW Rugs vendors are -

Nourison: Nourison is one of the largest and most diversified producers and importers of handmade and machine made rugs. They found that New Zealand wool presented the best quality, so it began using it almost exclusively in its signature products.”

Calvin Klein Home – Luster Wash Collection

Iintroducing the wash series, a mini collection of four rugs added to the luster wash group. Inspired by nature using a watercolor-like technique, each rug is imbued with a subtle and uniquely elegant patina. luxuriously textured, our luster wash rug collection is produced with 100% New Zealand wool pile and reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail. offered in beryl, citrine, amber and chrome.

Sphinx by Oriental Weavers: “Always a fashion leader, the first Sphinx wool rug that carried the Wools of New Zealand brand was Patina, launched in 1998. Since then, Sphinx has expanded its use.”

Andy Warhol Home Collection

Andy Warhol was known for breaking the rules, harnessing the latest technology to express his ideas, and creating a new movement in Twentieth Century art to be studied and imitated for years to come. The Andy Warhol Home Collection is divided into design categories that span the different themes of his portfolio Factory, Pop Abstracts, Pure, Revolution, Signature, and Simply Andy. The Factory designs were influenced by the early textures and shading of Warhol's "Factory" period.

Practical ideas for color matching

2010-04-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Color matching can be easier said than done. It's all very well having a good grasp of color theory. You can see how other room colors have been created, and why the schemes work. But like most theory, when you come to put it into practice, it isn't quite so easy.

Here's something to think about….

Professional interior designers don't match colors, they co-ordinate. Matching is like using a formula - co-ordinating is like an artist at work.

Don't spend hours trying to match colors exactly. It doesn't happen in nature, and if you try too hard you'll end up with an artificial look. Go back to thinking in terms of color groups.

One trick designers use often, especially when doing a room from scratch or re-doing a room to make it up-to-date and fresh, is to start with a rug and pull the color choices from there.

The rug grounds the room and therefore pulling colors from the rug will make the scheme cohesive. The room will have that pulled-together look without appearing “matchy-matchy” or over-decorated which can look fake or sterile.

Here are some very practical steps you can take as you're color matching.

How Tibetan Rugs Are Made

2010-03-10T10:17:00.000-08:00

The art of Tibetan rug making goes through many stages. First, the raw wool is washed by hand to remove dirt and impurities. After the wool is washed and dried in the sun, it is hand-carded repeatedly with two flat combs to straighten and arrange the fibers. When the fiber reaches the desired texture, it is then hand-spun into yarn for weaving.

Tibetan Rug making technique and process

Tibetan rugs are woven on a rectangular, vertical loom. The loom is warped with high-grade cotton from top to bottom. A metal rod is put horizontally across the warp and yarn is looped over the rod, then onto the warp to make a pile. When the whole knot is made, a cotton weft is put across to separate the pile, then combed and condensed with a wooden hammer once the pile is compacted; it is slit with sharp blades across the metal rod to make a pile. This process is repeated until the rug is made. Tibetan Rugs come in 60, 80 and 100 knots, which is 360, 480 and 600, cut ends per square inch.

Hand knoted Rug Variation on the Tibetan knotting system

Density of knotting structure determines the quality of Tibetan rugs. The number of knots refers to the number per square inch. Higher knot counts cost more because it requires more labor, precision and care. Higher knot counts are woven on a finer warp with more tightly spun yarn and produce a finer rug. The beauty of the higher knot count rugs such as 100 knots rugs allow to achieve more articulated and refined designs.

Final Process to complete the Tibetan Rug

When a Tibetan rug is complete, it is taken off the loom and put through a rigorous process whereby all the loose wool fibers are trimmed off by hand to bring uniformity to its surface. Depending on the design, the master cutter trims the edges of the design for it to stand out. After trimming and inspecting, it is washed and sun dried and stretched so to bring perfect symmetry in the rug.

The Tibetan art of weaving has been developed and transformed through time. Its vibrancy, natural harmony and aesthetics are unlike any other. The unique knotting system and the blend of Tibetan Wool and New Zealand wool gives our rugs exceptional visual depth of field and endless color possibilities unlike any other rugs in the world. Visit one of our seven showrooms to experience the exceptional beauty of Tibetan rugs.

Thanks to Shangri-La Rugs in Berkeley, California for this information.

Bokhara Rugs; The oldest contemporary design you will ever find.

2010-01-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

Bukhara (Uzbek: Buxoro, Tajik: Бухоро, Persian: بُخارا, Russian: Бухара), also transliterated Bukhoro and Bokhara, from the Soghdian βuxārak ("lucky place"), is the capital of the Bukhara Province (viloyat) of Uzbekistan. The nation's fifth-largest city, it has a population of 237,900 (1999 census estimate). The region around Bukhara has been inhabited for at least five millennia and the city itself has existed for half that time. Located on the Silk Road, the city has long been a center of trade, scholarship, culture, and religion. The historic center of Bukhara, which contains numerous mosques and madrassas, has been listed by UNESCO as one of the World Heritage Sites. (Wikipedia)

Bokhara rug designs have originated from the Samarkand and Bokhara Region. Bokhara rugs hold a high place in history and compete with the best in the world. Bokharas are a traditional piece of art suitable for any interior decor. Bokhara rug popularity has been on the increase in recent years and the quality are workmanship very consistent with ancient methods. (Rugbiz)

Bokhara rugs have small, repeating geometric designs and are normally fine quality. A popular Bokhara design, the elephant foot and octagonal 'gul' motifs tend to work well in both small and large spaces. Our Design Consultant, Jacque Hubl says of this paricular rug and design scheme...

"Bokhara is a favorite of mine because of its bright, lively vibrant color and its simple repetitive pattern. It instantly makes a space look rich. Also, pairing it with the modern bone leather sectional brought out the contemporary features of the rug even though the design is one of the oldest."

They are made of finely spun, soft wool. New Zealand wool is commonly used, and this can make a shiny, glossy finish that almost looks like silk. Fine examples are often closely clipped (so that their intricate designs are crisp and clear), but some are left especially thick for their quality. Red and rust fields are most common colors, but can have ivory, navy, green, slate, teal, peach, rose or orange backgrounds. (Rugbiz)

The graphic nature of the design makes the Bokhara rug a versitle design element for both traditional and contemporary modern spaces. Their lustre, vibrancy and overall symetry ground a design concept while adding a sense of sublte drama and luxury.

Photos: Jacqueline Hubl 2010

CLEANING SHAG RUGS

2010-01-12T10:09:00.001-08:00

We received a question via the blog the other day that we are sure has crossed the minds of many shag rug owners and prospective owners – “How do I clean a shag rug?”

Googling the question brings up a variety of methods, so many in fact that one could come away more confused than they were before researching. We hope to offer some guidance that will help.

Shag rugs come in a wide array of materials and construction, so the first step is to determine what the rug is made of and how it is made. This will help you think about the effects moisture will have on the rug and the backing.

Many rugs have a backing that is affixed with glue, so this eliminates any type of heat cleaning. Synthetic rugs may melt or degrade with high heat so that should be avoided.

The main tool for both large and small rugs is a small clean washcloth – white is best because you will be able to see if the dirt is being removed and there will be no chance of any color transfer if the wash cloth bleeds its color.

The first step is to vacuum the rug to lift up any dust or loose dirt. Tip: Especially with white/light colored rugs, clean the wheels of the vacuum so you don’t make track marks as you vacuum.

Set the height for high pile, at the highest possible setting to raise the roller bar the furthest away from the pile.

Do not move the vacuum back and forth.

Start at one end or side and go all the way across the rug in one smooth motion, all the way to the other side and then off the rug.

Turn the vacuum around, off the rug, and proceed along the next portion of the rug in the same way.

Repeat the process once more, making sure that you are going in the opposite direction than you did the first time on each section of the rug.

This is a good way to do your weekly vacuuming to avoid soil build up and maintain a nice fluffy shag rug.

For spot cleaning:

Note: Colored rugs may fade in the area cleaned so test clean a very small, unnoticeable area before attacking the larger spot. If there is fading, the overall method is probably better, with a little extra effort to the spotted area.

First try a greaseless, mild dish detergent (Dove or Woolite are good choices) and mildly warm water spritzed onto the spot from a water bottle. Let it sit for a minute or two. Then, gently rub the spotted area in a circular motion, being sure to stay within the confines of the spot; you don’t want to spread the soil to the surrounding area of the rug. Then with another cloth press/dab any excess moisture. Let air dry.

If that doesn’t do the trick, try a product like Folex. Spray that on the spot and let it sit for a several minutes. With a clean, dry, white washcloth/rag, repeat that same circular motion and then with another cloth press/dab any excess moisture. Air dry.

For overall cleaning:

A warm sunny day is the time to do this project because you can use the sun to dry the rug, indoors or outside. For white/cream color rugs there won’t be noticeable fading. With some color rugs there may be some fading. You can test a small area to determine how much and decide if the color change overall will matter as much as having the taint of dirt.

This is a hands and knees project. However, if approached systematically, it isn’t that difficult and can be done in an hour or less depending on the size. Don’t wear shoes. Bare feet may have dirt or oils from walking around so wearing white socks is best. It is probably a good idea to either wear shorts or white/grey sweats for this project.

Place the rug in front of a big window to take advantage of the warm sunlight for drying. If nice enough to do outside, lay down some plastic (a drop cloth works well) or several cut open paper bags as a barrier between the ground and the rug.

Follow the same steps as above but on a larger scale.

Start at one end and closely spray the rug moving backwards so you aren’t walking over the wet portion of the rug as you go. For 8x10 and larger rugs you may want to do half the rug at a time, horizontally rather than vertically.

After a few moments, use a white washcloth/rag in each hand and begin the circular motion process. This time start at the edge of the rug and move forward so you are crawling over clean rug as you go.

Let air dry, checking periodically to avoid over exposure to the direct sunlight.

Once dry, vacuum again using the method described above.

Two general tips that will help maintain your shag – vacuum regularly and take care of any spills/spots as soon as possible. Cleaning as close to the time of the incident will result in greater success at removing any spots and staining.

An easy method for some 100% synthetic rugs, including the backing, is to take it out into the yard and hose it down, front and back. Then leave it in the sun to dry. Again, you will want to consider the possibility of some fading and determine if that is ok with you for your needs and the look you want to maintain in your home.

As an alternative, you can contact a local professional cleaner. But, be aware that the price of this kind of cleaning can be more expensive than the rug in some cases. Best to talk with the cleaning company directly and make sure they have all the information about the materials and construction of the rug before signing on the dotted line.

Let us know how this process works for you and share any variations you make and the results. Our readers will be appreciative of your experience.

Hand-woven Indian Rugs

2009-12-31T15:25:00.000-08:00

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What makes hand-woven Indian Rugs
as affordable as they are beautiful?

Whether the centerpiece of an elegantly furnished living room or adding style to a high traffic area, a hand-woven rug from

India

enhances any space. For centuries, all the rugs woven by hand in India and the other rug-making countries were one-of-a-kind. These “unique creations” were priced like paintings and other original works of art, which made them unaffordable to all but the most affluent.

To adapt to changing decorative tastes and trends – and accommodate a broader range of budgets – a few innovative area rug manufacturers began modifying traditional Persian and other classic designs in the early 1980’s. The enthusiastic response to these new interpretations led to the production of an array of designs in a range of sizes, and in a variety of designer-influenced color combinations. However, unlike machine-made floor coverings, these new hand-woven rugs were produced in limited quantities, and in the same painstaking way as the one-of-a-kind carpets, helping maintain their value.

The new production process also offered the option of customizing rugs to meet special size requirements and individual design and/or color preferences. In short, this revolutionary development, along with the emergence of new weaving techniques and materials, not only made hand-woven Indian rugs much more affordable, it also opened up a host of new and exciting ways to incorporate area rugs into homes, apartments, and commercial spaces.

Presented by CARPET EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL in cooperation with the Oriental Rug Importers Association. For the complete .pdf of “A Shopper’s Guide to Hand-Woven Rugs from India” click here.

BASIC RUG STYLES from India

2009-12-11T16:54:00.001-08:00

Thanks to the innovation and creativity of area rug designers, manufacturers and importers, an ever-broadening spectrum of value-conscious consumers can grace their home with a genuine handcrafted rug from India.

The following information will help guide you to the Indian rug that will match your taste and budget:

BASIC RUG STYLES: There are three basic styles of hand-woven Indian rugs: Traditional, Transitional, and Contemporary. And there are a multitude of designs and color combinations available in each of these categories.

Following is a brief description of the basic styles:

TRADITIONAL

Atlantis Collection

The classic “Oriental” carpet, traditional style rugs are inspired by the ornate and intricate Persian and Indo-Persian patterns and rich colors that were the wellspring of India’s rug-weaving industry.

TRANSITIONAL

Oushak Collection

Transitional style rugs are adaptations of the classic Persian, Indo-Persian, and other traditional Oriental rug patterns. They are characterized by more muted and subtle color palettes, more open designs, and intricate patterns most often inspired by nature.

CONTEMPORARY

Sahara Collection

Fanciful, fashionable, and eye-catching, contemporary style rugs are the perfect accents for a residential or commercial space whose design and furnishings are distinctly modern.

The Oldest Rug in the World

2009-11-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

The oldest known rug, named the Pazyryk rug, is found in a frozen tomb in 1949. Rug-making is, truly, an ancient craft! The Pazyryk rug dates from the 5th century B.C., making it the earliest pile-weave rug discovered in its entirety. It was discovered in 1949 frozen in a Scythian burial site in the Altay Mountains of Siberia. The importance of the Pazyryk rug is that it proves pile weaving is an ancient craft. It's dimensions are 6'6" by 6'0", woven with wool using symmetric knots at about 225 KPSI on a silk foundation. The Pazyryk has motifs from the Persian Achaemenian dynasty (550 to 331 BC.). Because of its Achaemenian motifs, many believe it was made in Persia and then imported. The Pazyryk carpet is currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Jaipur Handmade Rugs

2009-11-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

aLakeside Palace, Jaipur, India

Jaipur Rugs is one of the renowned market players engaged in the manufacturing and export business of superior quality wool, wool-silk, pure silk and contemporary rugs and carpets. Founded in the year 1999, by Mr. Nand Kishore Chaudhary, a person with an experience of 30 years in the carpet business, today Jaipur Rugs has emerged as a name to reckon with in the field of manufacturing of pure Indian high quality carpets & rugs.
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"Jaipur Rugs Company offers exquisite collections of rugs, beautifully handcrafted by the master weavers of Jaipur India. In the true sense, the real credit for delivering mind blowing & stupendous pieces of art work undoubtedly goes to the hard working weavers who come up with imaginative, innovative ideas & designs derived from life. At Jaipur Rugs Company, weavers are given the freedom of expression in the artistic zone. Our weavers have inherited their craftsmanship skills from their forefathers. Generation after generation, the tradition has been passed and our weavers have become experts in their own way. Creative images as flowers, animate objects, motifs, legends, significant stories from the pages of history to name a few, all find a place on the intricately woven surfaces of these rugs & carpets. The uniquely designed home furnishing material showcases the weavers' firm hold on the complicated art."
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Design Styles in the Jaipur Handmade Collection Include:

OPUS: Traditional styles with Transitional flare. Awash with lush inviting fields of earth tones, te Opus collection’s rugs literally bloom with all manner of flower that invites all to enjoy the luxurious hand and exceptional artisan craftsmanship. 100% handspun New Zealand wool. The wool is colored to give the yarn an abrash appearance. Sizes: 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14.

ATLANTIS: Jaipur’s most popular collection. New Zealand wool. Soft, inviting and attractive. Sizes: 4x6, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14, 12x15.

ROYALE: Elegance and luxury with intricate, complex designs and rich powerful colors. Unrivaled beauty, clarity and luster. New Zealand wool. Universal styling and appeal works with any décor. Sizes: 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14, 6’ & 8’ round; 2’6”x8’, 2’6”x10’, 2’6”x12’.

PRESIDENTIAL: Pure, dense, plush. New Zealand wool. Timeless colors.

Sizes: 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14. (Salzburg & Charelston 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14, 6’ & 8’ round; 2’6”x8’, 2’6”x10’, 2’6”x12’.) 6’ & 8’ Scallop

See this dynamic and varied collection of some of India's finest at any showroom. Many in stock now.

Eco-friendly Interior Design

2009-10-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

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Interior design is all about creating aesthetically pleasing spaces that are safe, practical and in harmony with the rest of the surroundings. In order to carry this out effectively we must source the best materials, furniture and fixtures and fittings for the job, and in doing so, we inevitably have an impact on the environment albeit inadvertently.

These days with so much emphasis being placed on global climate change, reducing consumption, and recycling, interior design can be a bit daunting if we want to limit our carbon footprint and still get the effect we want. However, armed with the right information, it needn't be a big challenge and we can still create beautiful rooms that are stylish, healthy and that are environmentally friendly too. So where do we begin?

First of all it's important to note that every single thing we buy has an impact on the environment somewhere along the line either, from the way they are extracted, manufactured and processed, or from the distances they have to travel to end up in our home. Take for example paint, wood, glass, metal, textiles and furniture, each of which can have a negative impact if we don't know what to look out for but with a little effort and forethought, we are able to find eco friendly alternatives.

Paint
Conventional paint contains solvents and lot of other harsh chemicals and toxins but it is possible to source paints that have a reduced effect on the environment and that don't contain solvents, which are not only a much healthier option as they won't release harmful gases into your home and the atmosphere, they can be just as effective.

Wood
If possible, try to buy wood that is grown in a local forest so it doesn't have to travel long distances to end up in your home. Also, choose woods that don't have a negative effect on the environment. Look out for the FSC symbol which stands for Forestry Stewardship Council, an international non-profit organisation that will ensure that when you buy you will not be contributing to global forest destruction and threatening the livelihoods of people who depend on the forest or timber to survive.

Glass and Metal
Glass and metal are fairly easy to recycle and one of the advantages of both is that in most cases they can be recycled over and over again without losing any quality. Using recycled glass and metal helps reduce the amount of resources needed to produce these materials from scratch, also the process of recycling uses a lot less energy than what is required to make new glass and metal.

Textiles
Textile production can include processes like dying and bleaching which uses a lot of energy and will produce toxic gases which are then released into the environment not to mention the harmful pesticides that are often used whilst growing the raw materials. The main things to consider when choosing an eco friendly option is how renewable the product is, in other words, can it be replenished quickly, whether the product is dyed or if natural dyes are used, and whether a lot of chemicals are required to produce it. Some of the more eco friendly choices include organic cotton, wool and hemp although there are many others available too. Rugs made of these are one of the best, most cost effective ways to add sustainability to your home décor.

Furniture
How eco friendly your furniture is will depend on the material it is made from, how it is processed and what finishes have been used, so choose carefully. Consider buying second hand furniture or items made from recycled or reclaimed materials and doing them up as this helps to keep existing items in circulation and reduces the amount of perfectly useful items ending up in landfill.

When sourcing eco friendly materials for your interior design project, try to stick to the following guidelines:
- Buy from local producers and suppliers as much as possible as the less distance an item has to travel, the lower the impact on the environment
- Consider the type of materials you choose and whether they come from renewable and sustainable energy sources
- Avoid materials that contain chemical additives or that use a lot of energy during manufacturing processes
- When buying new items, try as much as possible to choose products that can be readily recycled after use or that can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner
- Consider low energy or energy saving devices and buy as much as you can from recycled or reclaimed materials

Finally, as a result of the massive amount of publicity given to global warming and the need for conservation of energy, many producers make claims about their products that are misleading or even false so check out the credentials of any suppliers claiming that their products are certified as natural, organic or eco friendly.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_McEvoy

GREEN STYLE; Hemp Area Rugs

2009-09-21T15:11:00.001-07:00

Eco friendly decorating that’s stylish, practical, and innovative has finally hit the floor. Eco sensitive rugs made from diverse materials ranging from: natural fibers like wool to upcycled poly-silk blends to recycled nylon fibers to repurposed bicycle tires are fashioned into creative and innovative forms that will have you taking a second look at what lies beneath your feet.

Inspired by nature, Verde is a completely organic collection of rugs hand-knotted of 100% hemp and colored with vegetable dyes. Part of the "Naturally…Momeni" group of products, Verde is completely eco-friendly and will offer a environmentally conscious touch to your home.

Hemp makes sense ecologically and aesthetically. In fact, hemp fiber is stronger than cotton, and its dense heavy weave lays flat. Hemp Area Rugs have a naturally course texture, and will soften somewhat with time and actually become stronger as it wears. Hemp is also naturally resistant to rot and mildew.

Hemp Facts:

Hemp grows without pesticides and chemicals fertilizers. It actually outruns weeds.
Nearly every part of the hemp plant --from the stalk to the seeds--can be utilized for products such as cosmetics, textiles, and fiberboard.
Hemp grows up to 150 times faster than trees and yields four times as much fiber per acre.
Consumption of hemp products conserves oil and timber resources.

Momeni’s Verde Collection of organically hip rugs are hand-knotted from 100% hemp and colored with eco-friendly vegetable dyes. Decorating divas with chemical sensitivities will love this Momeni rug since it is free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which are known to aggravate respiratory conditions such as Asthma and allergies.

Caring for Your Hemp Rug:

When cleaning your hemp rug it is best to first start with using water and a toothbrush or a scrub brush depending on the size of the area you want to clean. If the area is large, we advise taking the rug outside and hosing it down. It can be left outside to dry in the summer, or hung to air dry inside. Occasionally, water is not sufficient to clean the hemp rug. In this situation, we advise using a very mild dish soap or detergent along with a toothbrush or scrub brush to clean the area. After using the mild soap, it is important to rinse the area thoroughly as any residue left on the rug may give it a powdered appearance.

Use white vinegar mixed with a mild dish soap to protect colors when cleaning. 1 cup vinegar to 1 gallon water, or stronger, is recommended. Rinse thoroughly on both sides and make sure all soap residue is gone before drying. The use of a wet-vac is ok, but hot water is strongly discouraged (luke-warm to cold water is best). Colors should be expected to fade somewhat even with these precautions. Minimum soap and maximum white vinegar (only) is the best advice against color fading. These rugs are not machine-washable. Please note that naturally dyed products may fade when placed in direct sun.

See the entire Verde Collection from Momeni at any one of our seven showrooms or call if you have questions.

Careers at NW Rugs - NOW HIRING!

2009-09-20T03:14:00.000-07:00

A BEAUTIFUL HOME NEVER GOES OUT OF FASHION…

NW RUGS – The West Coast Leader in Rugs, with locations in Oregon, Nevada and Southern California. We offer the West Coast’s largest collection of fine handmade, tufted and machine made rugs, along with high quality furniture. If you are looking for a career with a solid company, NW Rugs offers a unique environment that fosters individual growth and rewards performance. As a family owned business, our commitment to excellence is deeply rooted in a strong sense of tradition. You'll be surrounded by people who are passionate about what they do.

We are currently accepting applications for a high-energy, experienced Sales Professionals to work in our Portland, OR and Agoura Hills, CA showrooms. High earning potential for dedicated and enthusiastic sales professionals.

Sales experience in the Rugs and/or Home Furnishings business a big plus.

We encourage you to visit our Facebook Page and website to learn more about our products and services: www.nwrugs.com.

Read all Responsibilities & Qualifications before applying with a cover letter and resume to mhannan@nwrugs.com

Qualifications:

Ability to communicate and build rapport with a wide range of people.

Ability to listen carefully to clients to fulfill their needs.

Able to problem solve and provide focused information about merchandise.

Willingness and ability to take direction and accept constructive criticism in order to grow and be successful.

High School diploma or equivalent.

Must have a car, valid driver’s license with a clean record.

Willing and able to work in any/all of the three (3) Portland metro Showrooms: Jantzen Beach, Tanasbourne, Wilsonville.

Basic computer skills – Word, Excel, email, web, social media.

Be team-oriented and work collaboratively to achieve team goals.

Ability to lift and carry 50+ pounds on a daily, ongoing basis.

Climb six foot ladder to hang rugs in racks.

Be assertive, enthusiastic, hardworking and flexible.

Can be trusted to maintain confidentiality and advocate company values.

Must pass a pre-hire drug screen, background check and complete a physical.

Responsibilities:

Present a consistent, professional appearance and image.

Sell Rugs, Furniture & Home Accessories

Sales Professionals at NW Rugs expertly assist customers and designers.

Listen carefully and handle customer questions effectively.

Maintain strong, ongoing working relationships with customers and designers.

Work as an integral part of a professional team committed to excellence and success.

Maintain an attractive, tasteful, clean showroom, includes vacuuming, dusting, etc.

Actively participate in ongoing, industry specific sales training program.

Must meet sales goals consistently.

WORK HOURS:

Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Days off are during the week – No weekends off

Benefits:

Medical & Dental (after 90- days of service)

Vacation and a matching 401K benefit package, (both after 1 year of service)

Compensation:

Straight commission draw guarantee with additional commission dependent upon closed sales. Payday twice monthly.

High earning potential for dedicated and enthusiastic sales professionals.

NW Rugs is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All resumes are held in confidence.

Send your resume & cover letter to: mhannan@nwrugs.com

Atelier de la Madeleine Collection

2009-09-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

Atelier de la Madeleine is a chic French inspired collection that evokes the romance of Parisian café society. The quirky élan of famous cafes of St Germain du Pres in the elegant 7th arrondissement infuses this furniture. Each item in the collection is painstakingly crafted and completely hand made. Atelier de la Madeleine brings a certain “Je ne sais quoi” and European flair to a discerning buyer's home.

View the complete Madeleine Collection Catalogue

The Fine Art of Rug Weaving

2009-09-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hand-knotted rugs can be defined as floor coverings or throws woven by hand on frames (also known as looms). The hand-knotted pile rug probably originated in Central Asia between the 3rd and 2nd millennium BC. The oldest, surviving hand-knotted oriental rug is the Pazryk Carpet, which dates back to 4th century BC. Excavated from a semi-frozen burial mound in the Altai Mountains of Central Asia, it is now on display in the Hermitage Museum in Leningrad, Russia.

Traditionally woven with silk, wool and cotton, and today even with shoddy yarn or synthetic yarn, hand-knotted carpets are manufactured in Iran, Pakistan, India, Turkey, China, Northern Africa, the Caucasus, Nepal, Spain, Turkmenistan and Tibet. Carpets from each region are different, reflecting cultural and geographical influences.

Based on the way they are made, rugs can be classified as hand-knotted, hand-tufted and flat weaves, such as kilims and dhurries. There are other variations too, as in the case of hooked rugs, which are made by pulling strips of cloth (usually wool or cotton) through the meshes of a sturdy fabric such as burlap. While hand-knotted rugs and hand-tufted rugs are largely manufactured for commercial purposes, kilims are woven for self use by the nomadic herdsmen of Central Asia and North Africa. Made from the wool of domestic animals—goats, sheep and camels—these colorful flat rugs are dyed with natural substances and woven on narrow portable looms.

Special thanks to Richard Rothstein for his wonderful video from YouTube.

Colors in Vegetable Dye Rugs

2009-09-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

Natural dyes are made from plants, insects, and minerals. Most common is madder (Rubia tinctorum), an herb native to southern Europe and Mediterranean countries and to Central Asia. Its root is the color producer--always a warm red. Cool reds came from scale insects. Blue, the second most common color in vegetable dye rugs, is extracted from the indigo plant (Indigofera tinctoria), a legume native to India. It produces all shades of blue.

Yellows come from a variety of plant sources. Among them are saffron stamens, pomegranate rind, larkspur, salvia, and certain sumacs. Purples and greens and oranges, of course, are created from combinations of these three. Browns were and are created from walnut and oak nut husks. These are highly tannic and thus corrosive when used in cloth and rugs. Blacks are combinations of tannic dyes and iron salts, and are the most corrosive.

Distinguishing vegetable dye rugs from synthetic dye rugs is only definitive in laboratory analysis. However, certain characteristics of each are often apparent to the naked eye. Synthetic dyes permeate the fiber evenly; natural dyes are absorbed in a graduated pattern. Synthetic dyes fade in natural sunlight and, given enough time, disappear almost altogether. Natural dyes only soften or mellow in sunlight, no matter how prolonged the exposure.

Generally speaking, nowadays most wool for rugs is colored with synthetic dye. However, finer stores and showrooms will have a few vegetable dyed rugs so it is worth asking your sales professional if that is what you want.

Theodore Alexander Tables

2009-08-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

An Empire Classical revival burl & brass engraved center table,
Greek key frieze, three bronze dolphin supports, plinth base.

A 17th century English walnut & burl oval gateleg dining table,
drop leaf top, two drawers, turned supports & stretchers.

A Regency walnut, cerejeira & burl inlay circular dining table,
four turned columns, downswept legs & bronze castors.

NW Rugs carries the largest selection of items from multiple Theodore Alexander collections of fine, handcrafted furniture, unique accessories and lamps. Visit any one of our showrooms to view these exceptional pieces. You will be impressed by the quality and selection.

Jaipura Atlantis Collection

2009-07-24T10:27:00.001-07:00

Hand Knotted, the Atlantis Collection boasts hand-spun New Zealand wool and an exceptional weave. Warm and inviting, Jaipur's most popular collection allows the quality workmanship, design motifs, and traditional coloring to be brought to the entry-level collector without being costly. Atlantis: Built for a Budget. Built for a Lifetime.

The more open transitional designs of the value-oriented Atlantis Collection are avalible in the most modern colors. These rugs complement a variety of decor styles and adapt well to changes in decor over time.

To view more rugs from the Jaipura line which includes the Atlantis, Opus & Royale Collections, click here

Persian Tabriz

2009-07-17T15:39:00.001-07:00

Our Agoura Hills Showroom is proud to present this most exquisite rug now on display and available for purchase. It is an authentic Persian Tabriz rug, 12'x15', wool and silk pile on a silk foundation. This is a signed piece, signed by the master weaver himself, which is rare. The rug also features a poem by the poet Saadi. The design theme on the rug is one of springtime joy. Price available upon request.

Glitz & Glamour - Hollywood Regency Style

2009-07-14T04:43:00.000-07:00

NW Rugs is delighted to announce the arrival of select pieces from THE HERMITAGE Collection by Theodore Alexander. THE HERMITAGE collection is innovative in style yet traditional in concept. It captures the history and elegant splendor of Russian design in luxurious materials such as Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, stainless steel and Karelian Birch. Using fine materials and traditional artisanship on each individual piece, Theodore Alexander has become eminent in its field – renowned as a unique brand embodying quality in design. The high gloss glamour and elegance of these pieces epitomizes the Hollywood Regency style created by designers Dorothy Draper, David Hicks, Billy Baldwin and Billy Haines. The exceptional quality, craftsmanship and beauty of this collection is available now for viewing and purchase.

CLICK HERE for the HERMITAGE COLLECTION

The Benefits Of Wool Rugs

2009-06-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Wool has been used for centuries to create many useful items, including rugs.

Wool is very resilient and its texture allows it to very quickly recover from crushing or indenting caused by footsteps or furniture. This natural resilience also keeps the rug looking new and fresh for longer periods of time.

Wool has a natural ability to resist staining and soiling. In fact it has more than a 30% higher rate of stain resistance than even the best synthetic fibers. It’s so good at resisting stains because of the natural light lanolin that coats the surface of the wool. This coating helps stop dirt and stains from actually penetrating the wool leaving any soiling on or near the surface. That’s why spills on wool is very easy to clean.

Wool fiber is also flame resistant providing natural flame retardant without the addition of chemicals. Because of this wool is an excellent choice for any room in your home and especially for children’s rooms.

Wool is also very durable and will last for many years without showing signs of wear. While wool rugs cost slightly more than synthetic rugs, because of its exceptional long life it can be a better choice than other types of rugs because you will quickly recoup the extra cost in the additional years of wear.

Sheep produce wool to protect themselves from a variety of climates and natural elements. Of course when man uses wool these natural capabilities remain intact. Natural wool actually has two different types of wool cells – the orthcortex and the paracortex.

Each lies on the opposite side of the fiber and grow at different rates. This causes a coil spring that makes the wool very elastic. The natural shock absorber allows the wool to quickly spring back to its original form. In fact wool fiber can be stretched more than 35% and still easily return back to its natural shape.

This protective barrier also stops water from easily penetrating the wool fiber making wool water resistant. But more than being water resistant wool is able to absorb about 1/3 of its weight in moisture and yet still not feel damp. This natural quality of wool allows it to remain warm and recover from pressure points quickly.

Wool rugs are available in a wide selection of styles, patterns, and designs. Because of the process used to dye wool rugs the colors are fade resistant and unless they are exposed to direct sunlight on a continuous basis you should experience very little fading.

Wool has the ability to provide a long lasting functional product that exhibits outstanding beauty. There are a variety of patterns and styles available in wool rugs and these days old world craftsmanship is being combined with new world technologies to produce outstanding results. A wool rug will provide you with years of enjoyment and durability.

Theodore Alexander: Painted Finishes - Chinoiserie

2009-06-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

Theodore Alexander creates stunning painted finishes, reproducing techniques used from Antiquity to the present day. The image above illustrates the age-old skill of Chinoiserie, a form of decoration that grew from Western interpretations of Chinese art in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Theodore Alexander’s craftspeople carefully paint thin layers of detail, until a complicated and unique design is realized. The end result is a raised and tactile painted surface. The intermingling of gold paint with red and brown tones against a black or dark brown creates a tonal and subtle finish.

The effect is stronger than that of traditional, 18th and 19th Century 'English' painted furniture, which tends to have flat painting on a veneered surface. Historically,

Chinoiserie as a style is a mixture of the beautiful and the striking. Visit any one of our spacious, well stocked showrooms to see more Theodore Alexander furniture.

Lazy Evenings at Home with Friends

2009-05-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

More and more, people are inviting friends over for drinks and nibbles rather than going out to dinner or throwing lavish parties with large amounts of food. One of the easiest, most efficient and attractive ways to provide your guests with all they need in one accessible place is to use a multi-tiered table on wheels.

Put the snacks (small sandwiches, bruschetta, antipasti, etc.) on the top shelf; plates, glasses and ice bucket on the second shelf; bottles and mixers on the bottom shelf - good to go. How easy is that. If you want a more formal look, add a cloth and silver platter to the top shelf. Either way, it is sure to please your guests and it will make your job as host/hostess much simpler and stress-free.

Here are two wonderful choices...

Above: A French provincial oval three tier lamp or serving table, the partially turned gallery top & tiers on square supports & castors. (28-1/2 x 17-3/4 x 29-1/4 inches)

Above: A Victorian walnut & burl three tier oval serving table / lamp table, dished tiers, turned supports, castors. (26 x 18-1/4 x 27-1/4 inches)

You can also use these for coffee and dessert service, tea and sandwiches, or a birthday cake with the presents on the lower shelf. This is one of those all in one furniture pieces no home should be without.

CLICK HERE to view more end & side tables

"What color? I don’t know where to begin."

2009-05-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

With so many choices and so much advice coming from all directions, it is no wonder people become overwhelmed when it comes to picking colors for their home interiors. Do I follow the trends? Do I go with what I like and hope my family, friends & guests will feel comfortable and be as pleased as I am?

Often, as we have seen on many an HGTV show, people either opt out all together and just leave the walls the way they are or they “play it safe” and go with white or one neutral for the whole house.

Kimberlee Jaynes, a Portland based designer has written an informative article on current trends and how to choose colors that are right for you. She makes an excellent point in the last paragraphs of this article –

“Don't know where to start? Which color story to use? I think you can use colors that are in keeping with the geography in which you live, the architecture of your home and most of all PERSONAL CHOICE…I believe the real trend is personalization. People are tired of others telling them what is good for their home. When choosing colors think about what color looks good on you. What do you like to wear? What do you want to feel when you walk through the door? Color defiantly evokes a feeling.”

Click here for an explanation of the emotions colors evoke and the impact paint colors can have.

We are beyond making choices based on what others think and the “keeping up with the Jones’es” mindset. Pick colors you like and then decide which room that color would work best in based on the impact it will have.

Theodore Alexander Veneers

2009-05-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

DECORATIVE VENEERS - HISTORY AND TECHNIQUES:
Theodore Alexander employs age-old techniques to create traditional and transitional furniture. One of the most technically challenging methods of embellishing furniture is to use veneers.

Veneer refers to thinly sliced woods that are applied to a thicker core, replacing the need to use solid woods. They can be achieved by slicing logs, branches, or even by rotary slicing a tree trunk. Depending on the type of cut used, any manner of interesting figures can be achieved.

Veneering techniques can be found as far back as the ancient Egyptians but started to be used in earnest in Europe in the late 17th century when Dutch marquetry in flowers became popular.

This technique is often used in marquetry and parquetry as the thinner veneers are easier to cut into the intricate patterns that are required of this technique of inlay. In fact – many designs would be impossible to achieve in solid wood. One also uses veneer in order to be able to use fine and exotic woods and especially particular grain patterns to their best advantage. A log or a particular part thereof can be used more often for their grain pattern as the yield of thinly slicing will be higher than a solid piece, placing less stress on the resource. A Burl is a good example of this, the burled part of the tree tends to be very small. Therefore using solid burls would be a very expensive way of showing off this beautiful grain. To slice the section into a fine veneer means one can make a half top of a chest of drawers out of one burl knot.

Unlike many modern furniture ateliers, Theodore Alexander hand-cuts veneers which ensures that every piece of furniture is both authentic and unique.

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OUR PROMISE TO YOU!

2009-05-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

This is our promise for every customer, everyday. Come and let us impress you with our service, selection and style. We are confident we can make your in store experience enjoyable and worth your while.

NW RUGS has seven unique showroom locations in Oregon, California, and Nevada, with the largest and most exquisite collection of rugs in the United States. Beautiful and vibrant patterned, hand knotted rugs, from contemporary to traditional, fill the amazing 20,000-square-foot+ gallery showrooms.

Alongside our selection of over 25,000 rugs from 15 different countries, we also proudly carry a line of finely handcrafted furniture and unique accessories with many many products in stock available to take home today. Bring your colors, bring your style, bring your dreams and let their trained staff help you create the perfect space in your home.

From living or dining rooms to bedrooms and everything in-between, NW RUGS furniture, rugs, and accessories will certainly complement, add luxury, and show quality in any home.

The Subtle Wonder of Nepalese Craftmanship

2009-04-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

A series of contemporary and traditional designs in warm and earthy colors. All rugs in the Jade Collection are hand woven with 100% hand-spun wool, which imparts striations in color for today's all important vintage look and feel.

See more rugs in the Jade Collection here.

2004-11-23T14:59:00.000-08:00