When it comes to area rugs, you know that there are many choices for you to pick from. One of these choices is the type of weave. You can choose pieces which are pile woven or knotted, flat woven, tufted, or braided. When it comes to the braided types, you will have further options whether to get hand woven ones or machine woven ones. What should you know about these machine woven pieces?
Machine woven braided rugs are made using two different techniques. Using looms or machines, they are made using either the tubular or round method, or the flat braid method. Knowing a little bit about each type will provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect from each type. That way you will be able to make the right choice when you go shopping. Let’s take a look at each method.
In the tubular or round method material is use to cover up a piece of tubing. Most times the tubing is made from waste material. Then these material covered tubes are later stitched into rugs. As the tubes are from waste material, the costs for producing these pieces are lower compared to the other method. Pieces produced using these methods are also sold at much cheaper prices. Even though they are cheap, they may not last long and do not retain their shape very well. They are also not very durable or strong. Some people dismiss these pieces altogether as they find them inferior in quality.
In the flat braid method, the braided rugs that are produced are flat, hence their name. They also look more like their traditionally hand woven counterparts. As they are flat, they are more comfortable to walk on. Cleaning them is also a lot easier. These pieces are also able to better retain their shape, and are made to be more durable and strong. Of course, these extra comforts come with a higher price tag.
Comparing the two, it is easy to see that the braided rugs produced using the flat braid method is a better choice for the home. That being said, there is actually nothing wrong with getting the cheaper tubular pieces. It all depends on your needs and purposes. If you want something that is temporary and cheap, and you don’t mind replacing them after a while, then by all means go for the tubular ones. However, if you want something that will last longer and will remain with you for many years, then go for the flat ones. The decision is ultimately yours to make.