Rug Terms Dictionary

Cotton Backing

The canvas backing of a rug is the layer of fabric the yarn is attached to. Most backing is made from cotton.

Finish

A coating placed on the surface of a rug for greater durability and sheen.

Hand-Spun Wool

This is wool that is spun by hand, compared to machine spun wool.

Hand Tuft(ed)

These rugs are handmade but instead of knotting the yarn, it is wrapped around the threads. This technique uses a tufting gun that creates detailed designs with a needle.

Jute

This strong and durable fiber is made from two plants (Corchorus capsularis and C. olitorius) in Eastern India.

Wool Pile

A pile is the strips of fabric that make a rug. The wool is sewed together in strips and then woven together.

Sisal

This is a material made from an agave plant. It is very stiff and durable and is used to make rugs, rope and twine.

Seagrass

This material is made from plants that live in a fully marine, saltwater environment. It is very durable and tough.

Mountain Grass

This material is made from grass that is grown at very high altitudes in China. It has a very deep and rich brown tone and is very durable. Mountain grass is also known as hemp.

Shag

This style rug was designed in the late 1960's. It's distinct style is to leave a high pile on top of the rug, creating a shaggy finish.

Hemp

This fiber is the product of the Cannabis genus plant and is very soft yet durable. It is very popular for use in natural area rugs.

Jute Backing

The backing of a rug is the layer of fabric the yarn is attached to. Jute backing is made with 100 percent Jute.

Hand-Knotted

The most complicated and labor intensive way to make a rug. The method uses old-fashion techniques to create distinguished and high-end area rugs.

Rug Pads

Material placed under a rug to provide a soft, more comfortable feel.