Living in a Material World: Braided Rug Fabrics

Classic Braided Rugs In the days of settlers to America, clothing and sewing scraps were recycled into braided rugs. Wool and cotton braided rugs graced the floors of New England homes, due to the proximity of textile mills. The railroad brought mobility and fabrics shipped across the states from New England. Wool was considered the ideal fabric for braided rugs. It was warm, and offered deep and luxurious colors. Today's braided rugs come in a variety of materials, each with a distinct feel and degree of durability.

Materially Speaking

• Wool braided rugs are made from sheep fleece, for exceptional durability and a luxurious look and feel. Wool braided rugs absorb and evaporate moisture quickly. Silk fibers added to create wool blend braided rugs offer increased softness and more vivid hues.
• Chenille can be blended with wool for an exquisite feel. Chenille is woven and then worked into braided rugs through a special construction. Some braided rugs combine chenille with polypropylene yarns.
• The natural fibers of cotton are strong, making cotton braided rugs resilient. Cotton combined with other fibers becomes even stronger. Nylon adds awesome color to braided rugs. A cotton/nylon blend can be softer than wool, though not quite as long-wearing.
• Synthetic fibers blend multiple materials. Polyester and other synthetic braided rugs are color-fast and resistant to mold and mildew. They are easily cleaned and can take the everyday abuse from family and pets.
• Man-made acrylic fibers offer the look and feel of wool at a lower price. Acrylic braided rugs are not as durable as most other fibers.
• Polypropylene braided rugs are synthetic fibers that resist stains, mold, and mildew, and withstand abuse in high-traffic areas. Polypropylene braided rugs can be used on porches and patios and rinsed clean with a garden hose.