I have something to admit — I’ve become a bit of a vintage rug hoarder, haha! Now, I will say — this titled was not self-given, but rather bestowed upon me by my lovely mother who says it runs in the family. Truth be told, though — I don’t mind the title one bit, as I’ve found myself obsessed with finding the perfect vintage rugs for our home over the past few months! It all started with this beaut that I bought from Experimental Vintage for our bedroom — a 1960’s Persian rug, and I’ve since added two more to our collection. Shopping for a vintage rug isn’t for the faint of heart, though — especially online, as they tend to sell quickly and it can be hard to make such a large purchase off of just a few photos (rightfully so, of course). With three, well-thought through purchases under my belt (two online and one in person), I feel totally confident in my vintage rug buying abilities and wanted to share a few tips and things I’ve learned to look for along the way — along with a few of my favorite shops to browse and buy from online and in-person!

Here’s a few things to keep in mind —

Size – Vintage rugs are often not standard sizes — they might be a bit short on one size, or a bit long on another — or even a tad bit uneven (I call that character, though). If you’re buying online, your best bet is to measure out the size the rug in the area you’ll be placing it to ensure it’ll be a perfect. When buying in person, measuring out with your steps and comparing the space you want to place it in is your best bet (count the steps of your space before you go out rug shopping, always!).

Budget – Setting a budget and sticking to it should always be your game plan when it comes vintage rug shopping! Size, quality and condition will come into play when it comes to pricing, as well as where you’re purchasing it — in-person may allow for a bit of bargaining and free shipping because you’re walking away with it, but online may present you with more options, as well as the occasional discount and free shipping. In the end, though, know that the perfect vintage rug in your budget will come around one day, so don’t let the first rug you see burst your budget!

Quality – Vintage rugs come in all kinds of fabrics and weights. If you’re seeing a rug in person, be sure to ask about the fabric and pick it up to determine the weight. It’s also good to ask the estimated year that it was made — this will help you decide how well it’s held up!

Condition – To me, this one is all about preference! Looking for a more well-loved rug with amazing fading and wear and tear spots? Go for it! Looking for something with vivid colors and little to no wear? I’m sure you’ll find a perfect fit! Be sure to examine the whole rug and don’t be afraid to unravel it or ask for more photos from the seller!

And a few of my favorite shops to buy and browse vintage rugs from online and in-person? Here they are —

Experimental Vintage – Anna has a heart of gold and truly cares so much for each rug she sells! I’ve purchased two rugs from her so far, and each one has arrived super fast and very clean! Couldn’t recommend her shop enough!

Frances Loom – Kelly’s collection of vintage rugs is like no other and every piece is unique and oh so beautiful! I also love the holiday stockings she sold this past year, which remind me of those tiny pillows I have in the chair on the left in the top photo — both made from vintage rugs!

Junk In The Trunk Vintage Market – Scott and I are vendors at this awesome vintage and handmade market and we love taking quick shopping breaks when time allows, especially when we’re on the hunt for something specific for our home. During the last market I picked up a mid-size vintage rug for our kitchen and I loved hearing that it came from a movie studio in LA! So crazy to think it could have been in my favorite movie (That Thing You Do)! There are lots of vendors here that sell vintage rugs and have some great finds! Would definitely recommend if you’re local or visiting while the market is going on!

Shkoon – This shop is new to me, but they carry the most beautiful Moroccan rugs at really reasonable prices! The colors in some of his rugs kill me — they’re gorgeous!

And with all that said, I am not a rug expert but do hope you guys enjoyed this post! It was really fun to write and totally makes me look like a crazy rug lady, but I’ll take the title haha! I would love to know if you’re in the market for a vintage rug or have any favorite shops or in-person places you love to browse or shop from? I hope ya’ll have an amazing week!

-Chelsea xo