This photo is actually an advertisement for DalTile’s Durango Travertine, but it caught my eye because of the really beautiful bound area rug sitting on top of the tile.  The bound area rug really adds warmth to this room.  You may have to be creative when it comes to finding the perfect area rug for you room.  You can pull your room together by using floors with different textures that enlighten your senses.   A timeless travertine tile floor or a hardwood floor topped off with a bound area rug that adds warmth can give you a unique look. Think of using an area rug that has been bound from wall to wall carpeting instead of one that is pre-made to a specific size.  The most common sizes found in a pre-fabricated area rug are 4’x6’ 5’x7’, 8’x10’ and 9’x12’.  So if you need a special size or want a simple textured area rug you may have to get busy and have your very own creation made.    There are manufactures that offer an area rug service, Masland and Stanton are two that come to mind or your local flooring retailer will offer a service to bind or surge your new area rug.

Just so you know binding is a thin fabric that matches the carpet that is stitched to the edge to give a finish look and protect from raveling while surging is a whipped stitched yarn that you see on most heavy carpets or Oriental Rugs.  Surging is a must on a heavy carpet. 

So before you invest in a pre-fab ready made area rug think of the option of creating your own custom rug using wall to wall carpeting.  You will be amazed at the endless possibilities of color, textures and styles that are available.

Renee LeCroy is the Flooring Expert at Don’s Carpet One in Birmingham, AL.  For 18 years, she’s been the consumer’s in-store advocate, decoding the flooring industry and offering insider advice. Contact Renee via email