Wool is naturally stain resistant as it is covered by a thin membrane that acts as a repellent to prevent water from penetrating the fiber. Wool is also naturally resistant to soil and dirt, has been proven to reduce echoes and noise, and is more flame retardant than manmade fibers.
Synthetic fibers are less expensive than wool, resistant to moisture and mildew, and almost fade-proof. Our rugs are made with a high quality polypropylene that attempts to copy the softness of wool. There are many benefits to rugs made with manmade fibers. In addition to the price, the durable, non-porous polypropylene fiber is stain resistant and easy to clean.
Not all rugs are created equal. Besides the differences in materials, there are different methods used to make rugs. Machine made rugs are made on a computerized loom and are the most economical. Handmade rugs can be either hand knotted or hand tufted. Hand tufted rugs are constructed on a stretched canvas rather than on a loom, and a tufting gun is used to push each piece of yarn (wool) through the canvas. Hand knotted rugs are time intensive, have more defined and distinctive designs depending on the size of the knot, and are stronger than hand tufted and power loomed rugs. Hand knotted rugs are considered “fine art” for the floor, have a very high resale value and will last through generations.