Southwestern Rugs And Style
Posted by Gunther Graves | Filed under Home & Family
If you want history, culture and all the good feelings associated with seeing something unique, get yourself a rug made the southwestern way. It will bring you to the era of the old America, reminiscent of Native Americans weaving rugs beautifully in the freshness of the countryside.
Southwestern rugs have a story of their own to tell. Before they even became rugs, they were made as blankets or a piece of clothing, worn around the shoulders. Cotton was primarily used until the 1500s when the Spanish colonizers came and introduced the use of wool. Wool is a kind of fabric from sheep’s hair. From then on, southwestern rugs were weaved in this soft and lush material.
Most of the southwestern rugs today come from areas where Spanish and Native Americans have come together to create colorful designs. They are often called Native American rugs or are sometimes identified by the name of the tribe that makes them - like Navajo or Zapotec. Sacred figures are woven into these pieces with amazing patterns and colors which reflect an impressive amount of craftsmanship and hard work.
Unbelievably, Native American rugs can take as long as one year to finish. The delicate weaving just boasts of amazing artisan skill. Most of these are hand-woven until today. Popular names are the Mexican Guadalupe rugs, Oaxaca Mexico rugs, Spirit rugs, Zapotec Indian rugs, Mohair rugs and of course, the Navajo rugs.
Selecting a floor covering depends on what you personally like and what kind of decor you have in your home. If you are inclined towards a western setting, then southwestern rugs with their rustic and ancient feel will surely complement the whole room. No two southwest table runners and tapestries will be alike. Hand woven floorings are favored by many designers because of the abundance of colors and patterns.
Southwestern rugs of various kinds require more care and maintenance because of their complex textures, colors and designs. Here are few tips to help you take better care of your lovely, valuable possessions.
Prioritize cleanliness by regular washing or scrubbing. Use mild cleaning products and make sure to test on a small or concealed spot to check for adverse chemical reactions before applying. You can also have a professional cleaning service done. Regular vacuuming is also a good way of maintaining your rug’s top quality. It eliminates dust and moisture.
Regularly flip your rug to even out the wear and tear and treat it for bugs and carpet beetles.
Treat your rug for bugs and carpet beetles to ensure sanitation. This is recommended particularly if you go barefoot, lie down or sit on the rug. If you have children at home, all the more that you need to make sure that even your floor covering is as clean as possible.
If you’re a DIY kind of gal and prefer the faster route, you can vacuum the rug as an alternative cleaning method. Invest in a good quality vacuum machine. Another option is to bring it to a professional for a more thorough cleaning. In fact, doing this at least once a month will ascertain your rug stays in tip-top shape.
It is not a good idea to expose your southwestern rug to moisture. See that you keep it well away from plants to protect it against mildew or rot.
Having a Native American rug at home brings nature, culture and art in your place. They are beautiful adornments that will give charm to your home’s interior.
Don’t be ripped off by imitations. Be sure to buy authentic southwestern style rugs directly.
Tags: area rugs, flooring, floors, Home & Family, home decor, home decorating, Interior Design, rugs, southwestern decor, southwestern rug
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