TL;DR
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Terms like handmade, hand-knotted, hand-tufted, hand-loomed, and handwoven are often used interchangeably but have different meanings. A comparison is essential before buying something that fits your budget, interiors, and life.
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Handmade is a broad term encompassing hand-tufted, hand-loomed, hand-knotted, and handwoven. Not all handmade rugs are handwoven.
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Handwoven pieces are crafted completely by weaving fibres like wool, jute, cotton, or blends on a loom. They have a natural feel and are textured, flexible, versatile, and highly durable.
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Handmade and handwoven rugs differ across parameters like variety, construction method, texture and feel, pricing, and practicality.
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Hand-knotted rugs are super premium and extremely expensive, while hand-tufted and hand-loomed pieces are much more budget-friendly. Handwoven rugs are top-quality yet reasonably priced.
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Handwoven rugs are widely popular in Australia because they suit open layouts, pair with different interior styles, are practical and durable, and look luxurious without costing the earth.
Compare Handwoven vs Handmade Rugs Before Making a Purchase
While looking for premium, handcrafted rugs online to elevate your Australian interiors, you might run into terms like handmade, handwoven, hand-tufted, hand-knotted, etc. Even if similar-sounding, these terms indicate different modes of construction, quality, and pricing. Comparing handwoven vs handmade rugs is especially important before you invest in a piece that complements your lifestyle, home, and budget.
This guide explains just that, so you have all the information you need to make a suitable decision.
What Does Handmade Mean?
The handmade term, referring to a broad category, basically implies that a rug isn’t made by machine, but rather by hand. It encompasses multiple rug types:
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Hand-tufted rugs (quickly produced, affordable, soft and thick pile, not ideal for high traffic)
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Hand-knotted rugs (traditional, feature individual knots, quite expensive, long-lasting)
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Hand-loomed rugs (made using manual and semi-automated processes, smooth finish, moderately durable)
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Handwoven rugs (versatile, warm, comfy, fit for daily use, appealing textures)
Hence, not all handmade rugs online in Australia are handwoven. However, the opposite’s valid.
What Does Handwoven Mean?
When exploring handwoven rugs online, remember that skilled craftsmen weave fibres together on a loom to make them. The raw material can range from wool and jute to cotton and blends. While often low-pile or flat-weave, handwoven rugs can be medium and high-pile too. They are also durable, promote relaxed aesthetics, and not harsh on the wallet.
What Is the Difference Between Handmade and Handwoven Rugs?
The differences are mostly noticeable across these parameters:
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Parameters |
Handmade Rugs |
Handwoven Rugs |
|
Method of Construction |
Involves multiple techniques as it’s a broad category |
Weaving is done on a loom specifically |
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Variety |
Hand-knotted (high-end and intricate) Hand-loomed (weaving is semi-manual) Handwoven |
Focused only on weaving techniques |
|
Texture and Feel |
Can be flat, thick, or plush, based on type |
Often flat (can be thick or plush too), natural feel, and textured |
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Practicality |
Hand-knotted ones might be more delicate |
More suited for everyday usage |
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Pricing |
Wide range (while tufted rugs are often pocket-friendly, knotted ones tend to be expensive) |
Neither cheap nor extremely expensive, but offer premium look and feel at reasonable prices |
Why Are Handwoven Rugs Popular in Aussie Homes?
Of the different types of handmade rugs available, handwoven pieces complement modern lifestyles seamlessly. Here’s why:
Suit Open-Plan Living
Aussie homes are known for open layouts and handwoven rugs help define spaces without creating visual clutter. They easily define different zones (living, dining, and bedroom) and yet maintain an airy and bright environment.
Pair Well with Different Interior Styles
Whether you have minimalistic interiors, something inspired by coastal living, or follow a Scandinavian theme, handwoven rugs go well with it all. Mostly available in soothing neutrals and featuring subtle patterns or textures, these rugs are always in vogue.
Durable and Practical
Handwoven rugs are great at handling moderate foot traffic daily. In fact, low-pile ones or those featuring a flat weaving work well for years in busy households with kids and furry friends too. From living and dining spaces to bedrooms, home offices, and nurseries, they are a practical choice for your entire home.
Luxe Look without Being Too Expensive
For anyone seeking premium craftsmanship and a luxurious look without shelling out an exorbitant amount, handwoven rugs are the perfect answer. Ours, for instance, are sourced responsibly, crafted by experienced artisans, and exude European aesthetics.
Handwoven Rugs to Try from The Rug Trader
Our handwoven rugs can redefine your Aussie interiors effortlessly, whether you prefer a trendy or organic style:
Ray
Made of 100% natural and undyed wool, Ray’s basket weave adds visual interest and layers to any space. This elegant handwoven piece is also low-pile, and hence, easy to clean and keep in shape. You can also use it in rooms that witness decent traffic.
Marigold
A blend of luxurious feel and rustic vibes, Marigold is crafted with 100% natural jute. The chunky loop construction and high-pile style make it ideal for laidback settings in living areas or bedrooms. Its black crisscross pattern easily contrasts neutral furniture pieces.
Swarn
Featuring a gorgeous braided weave, Swarn is a 100% natural jute piece and perfect for elevating interiors in an understated manner. Earthy and flat-woven, it handles traffic well and is available in a runner version too that you can consider for hallways or entryways.
Buy Handwoven Rugs Online and Transform Your Interiors
Now that you understand the difference between handmade and handwoven rugs and why the latter is a hit among Aussie homeowners, check out The Rug Trader collection. From flat-woven and natural wool to luxury and Scandinavian, we have multiple styles at prices that are worth it.
To try our rug belt or for personalized guidance, do contact us today. We would also love to chat via hello@therugtrader.com.au or +61 0 39 2451008.
FAQs
Q.1 Are all handmade rugs expensive?
No, not all handmade rugs are expensive. While hand-knotted ones usually cost a lot, hand-tufted and hand-loomed ones are way more affordable. Handwoven ones are less pricey than hand-knotted ones but of premium quality.
Q.2 Are handwoven rugs suitable for using anywhere?
Premium handwoven rugs should ideally be used in dry and medium-traffic spaces. Some designs are suited for high-traffic zones too. But keep them away from moisture or places where spills are common, like kitchens or bathrooms.
Q.3 Is it alright to wash handmade rugs in the machine?
Not all handmade rugs are machine-washable. Our luxe handwoven pieces, for instance, need professional cleaning. For others, it’s important to check the label first.
Q.4 How to store handwoven rugs safely?
After cleaning, roll handwoven rugs (avoid folding), and wrap them in breathable fabric to keep dust away. Then stash in a dry and cool place.
Q.5 How frequently should I rotate handmade rugs?
To avert uneven wear or fading due to natural light exposure, rotate handmade rugs every 6 months.
