Silk Rug

Floor rugs can be found in many different materials. These rugs are made either from natural fibers or synthetic materials. Among the many types of rugs out there, a silk rug is one of the most expensive types of area rugs. This is understandable because a silk rug is made from silk, which is a really expensive and valuable material that comes from the cocoon covering of a silkworm.

This cocoon spun by the silk moth caterpillar is a single silk fiber which can be as long as several thousand feet in length. The cocoon is boiled to kill the silkworms and then meticulously unwound and spun into silk threads. This laborious process accounts for the expensive price you have to pay for silk. As silk is very valuable and costly, it is used in hand woven rugs.

A silk rug is indeed a precious commodity and a worthwhile investment. Today, there are silk area rugs made from real authentic silk, and then there are rugs that are made of artificial silk. Artificial silk refers to any type of silk that does not come from the silkworm cocoon. This could be made from mercerized cotton or a manufactured fiber like rayon. These silk are used in rugs as well. There is nothing wrong in purchasing rugs made from artificial silk. As long as you know that your rug is made from artificial silk and you do not pay for a full priced authentic silk rug, there is no harm. Of course the cost should be less, and the rug may not be as valuable as a truly authentic silk rug.

A real silk rug is very tightly woven. It is intricately detailed with a real silk fringe which is actually an extension of the rug’s structure. If the fringe has been sewn on, or is made of cotton, then the rug is made from artificial silk. A rug that feels like silk may not necessarily be silk; it can be wool. Wool silk rugs sometimes have some artificial silk in the pile. So do be careful when paying a high price for a real silk rug.

A truly handmade silk rug will show off different shades or different colors when viewed from different angles. This color variation cannot be achieved by any other types of rugs. This natural change in color is thanks to the luster, pile, shine and the weaving technique that is employed in making the silk rug.

Now that you know the difference, let us take a look at the many types of silk rugs available. Silk rugs are mainly oriental and Persian in design. The Persian silk rug provides an exquisite look for your home and show class and wealth. The beauty of these rugs are in the texture, as silk often feels soft. These rugs have a distinctive almost translucent luster that makes them a joy to behold.

Silk rugs come in many different sizes, from small to large. They can be found in many different designs too, from silk runner rugs to round rugs to rectangular rugs to even square rugs. Silk rugs are not suitable for places with high traffic, as they are delicate and very expensive. They also should not be placed in areas where you get direct sunlight. Silk rugs will require professional cleaning. As such you need to take care of your silk rug so that it does not get too much wear, or get stained and dirty.

Where can you place these wonderful silk rugs in the home? A silk runner rug is suitable to be used in the bedroom. You can place it along side your bed or at the foot of your bed. It evokes a look of luxury and opulence. A round silk rug is great in the foyer or at the foot of the stairs. A large silk rug looks magnificent displayed on one wall of your home. You can use it anywhere in the home and it will immediately make the area look more beautiful.

Whether your silk rug is used on the floor or on the wall, it will definitely be a worthwhile investment which you can enjoy for many years to come.