Where to buy rugs?

Well, I cannot and will not suggest a shop or website here. But very often, friends and relatives ask me where to buy a "good" rug !

My answer is


1- I know it is not always possible but if you can, try to ask someone who knows about rugs to help you. You might have a friend or relative that knows about rugs.

2- If it is a really really expensive rug, ask for an appraisal from a qualified honest appraiser. 

3- ALWAYS, ask for a certificate or at least a receipt that gives a description of the rug: its size, city it is made (its origin in fact), age, pattern, design, name of the workshop it is made (if it is known),  its condition, the price you have paid. 

4- ALWAYS inspect the rug, make sure it is clean, it is a symmetrical/accurate rectangle, the patterns are symmetrical (if they are supposed to be), watch out for damages(i.e. stains and wear), the edges are healthy. 

5- ALWAYS shop around. I know it is very tempting but never ever buy the first rug you like right away without researching about it- well unless if you are an expert (in that case you wont read my blog ). Look at it in this way: you might believe in love in first sight but you wont do IT on your first date. Right? Well unless you are an expert ;)

You also can search internet and find rugs with the same quality, style, signature in your own country so that you have a rough estimate.

6-  Discuss return options and make sure it is written in the receipt.

7- Buy the rug you really love. No , loving it is not enough ! You should be in love with it. You must feel a connection to it. OK? It is not fair to a rug if you just find it suitable but there is no love ;) 

xoxo
Me