Oriental Rug Buying Guide May 2026

: Flip the rug over. Hand-knotted rugs have slightly irregular knots and the pattern is almost as clear on the back as it is on the front. Machine-made rugs will have a very uniform, grid-like back and often a plastic-like mesh or backing.

The most critical factor in value is how the rug was made. Authentic oriental rugs are hand-knotted, meaning every individual knot is tied by hand. oriental rug buying guide

Quick Tip: Handmade Or Machine-Made – Main Street Oriental Rugs Main Street Oriental Rugs : Flip the rug over

Buying an authentic oriental rug is an investment in art. Whether you're looking for a centerpiece for your living room or a collectible antique, understanding the construction and origin is key to finding a quality piece. 1. Identify Hand-Knotted vs. Machine-Made The most critical factor in value is how the rug was made