If you are decorating an entire room, we suggest that you start with the rug. A beautiful rug is more than simply a floor covering. It is a work of art that embodies the culture and personality of its creator. Although you will find a great selection of rugs here, the number of available choices of fabrics and paints is far greater.

Many interior designers today are placing rugs on top of wall-to-wall carpeting. This can brighten any room. But it is essential that you use a pad under the rug to prevent color transfer to your carpet and to keep the rug from "e;creeping."e; See our pad selection for special padding designed for various floor surfaces.

When deciding on a rug in your home, view it from all directions. You should even rotate the rug in the room. Many rugs change appearance from end to end due to the lean of the pile, much like the nap of a velvet fabric.

When placing more than one rug in an area, it is not necessary that the rugs match. It is often more interesting to combine different looks that have compatible colors.

It is also perfectly appropriate to hang a rug on the wall where the beauty of its colors and design can be seen. In fact, rugs have been used this way for centuries.

Another decorating idea is to use rugs as sculpture, rolling and stacking them in a kaleidoscope of hues and patterns. (Note: You will need to regularly unroll the rugs and clean them to keep them in shape and free from moth damage.)

The point is, do not feel limited to the traditional "e;rug under the table"e; mentality. In the countries where these woven works of art were born, the rug is an integral part of their lives and lifestyle. Make it part of your own.

Size Guidelines
Selecting the proper size rug for your space is largely a matter of personal preference. But there are a few guidelines that can help make your selection easier.

Under a dining table, the ideal size will accommodate the chairs when they are pulled out to sit down. Typically, a table with four to six chairs will take an 8'x10' rug. A table with eight chairs will take a 9'x12' rug. For seating areas, your first decision is whether you want a room-size rug or an accent size. Accent rugs fill an area rather than the whole room. In general, the edge of the rug should at least reach the chairs and sofas in the area. Also, it is perfectly acceptable to have the rug run halfway under a chair or sofa.