The internet has revolutionised the way we shop, offering a wealth of resources and conveniences, especially for complex and high-value purchases like Persian rugs. However, when it comes to making a final decision, buying in person remains vital.
The Internet as a Resource: Information at Your Fingertips
The internet is a treasure trove of information about Persian rugs. From detailed articles and blogs to instructional videos and virtual tours of rug galleries, you can learn about different types of Persian rugs, their history, and the intricacies of their craftsmanship. This foundational knowledge is crucial in helping you make an informed decision.
Online platforms allow you to compare prices or so you may think. The difficulty is in handmade rugs that each one is individual. You may see two from the same country, even the same provenance and size but still vary greatly in price. Understandably you may immediately think this is because one is marked up higher but ultimately, they are the same thing. No, so often the finer pieces the subtle nuances cannot be seen on a monitor and certainly not on a phone screen, it is only in person seeing them essentially side by side (or similar to compare by) that you can truly start to see and learn what one is looking at and therefore understand why the variant in prices and styles across various sellers and marketplaces.
Therefore, in my opinion internet shopping can inspire you regarding style, colour, and size, and provide a sense of the fair market value for different types of Persian rugs, but always see in person.
The Vital Role of In-Person Shopping: Seeing, Feeling, and Experiencing
Authenticity Verification
Seeing a Persian rug in person allows you to verify its authenticity. You can examine the rug’s weave, knots, and materials up close, ensuring that it matches the seller’s description. Touching the rug lets you feel the quality of the wool or silk, which is often a tell tale sign of its authenticity.
Colour Accuracy and Craftsmanship
In-person viewing ensures that you see the true colours of the rug. Online images can be misleading due to lighting and screen calibration differences. By handling the rug directly, you can appreciate the nuances and vibrancy of its colours, ensuring they complement your home décor.
The craftsmanship of a Persian rug is a testament to the skill and dedication of its weaver. Each knot and thread placement contributes to the overall beauty and durability of the rug. When buying online, one cannot inspect the rug's craftsmanship up close. This means missing out on evaluating the fineness of the weave, the quality of the wool or silk, and the precision of the pattern.
The Personal Connection
Buying a Persian rug is often a deeply personal decision. Handling the rug and seeing it in different lights and settings can create a connection that’s hard to replicate online. This connection is essential in choosing a piece that will be cherished for years. This is why we offer the option to try the rug in your home with no obligation to buy. This trial period is invaluable as it lets you see how the rug looks and feels in your actual living space. You can observe how it interacts with your furniture, lighting, and room dynamics, ensuring it’s the perfect fit.
At the Rug Studio, buyers benefit from the expertise and knowledge of Rachel, a trained weaver with over 30 years’ experience in the industry. She can provide insights into the rug's history, craftsmanship, and care. This personalised guidance is often missing in online transactions. Without expert advice, buyers may find it challenging to choose a rug that truly fits their needs and preferences.
Recently, several clients have approached us to help with the sourcing of their new rug after ordering off the internet and receiving rugs of the wrong colour or inferior quality to what was advertised. They then had the additional stress of having to arrange and pay for returning the items, which is often a pitfall of ordering off the internet.
Leveraging the internet as a resource can significantly enhance your buying experience by providing education, market insights, and access to a broader selection. However, the importance of handling the rug in person and trying it in your home cannot be overstated. This tactile experience ensures authenticity, allows for accurate colour and craftsmanship evaluation, and creates a personal connection to the rug.
Ultimately, a balanced approach that combines the convenience of online research with the assurance of in-person shopping can help you find a Persian rug that not only meets your aesthetic and quality expectations but also resonates with you on a personal level.
For help and advice contact us on 01780239594 or email rachel@therugstudio.co.uk