Antique and Vintage rugs are a classic way to add color and pattern into your home, but buying online can feel like going on a blind date. We’re uncovering secrets about taking the plunge with an online rug store and how to care for your rugs once you get them in your home. Because we love sharing small (women owned) businesses with you, we’re also including some of our favorites from the eternally chic rug expert: LillieKat.

Speaking of which, we’re no style experts, but we know what we like. That’s why we turn to a reputable online source, like Kristie at LillieKat, as the perfect place to start. She offers 1:1 consultations for rugs and can guide you with tips on styles, sizing, and pricing for the perfect rug. If the rug is in stock, it ships quickly to you.. no waiting!

We are currently working with Kristie to find the perfect rug to layer over a larger 9’x12’ space. We always love blues and greens, so that’s our very broad criteria so far! I love that once I purchase, I have 3 days to try out and return the rug. I’ve been searching under size, “medium rugs”.

Our Tips:

1. Be patient…. this is not the time for impulse purchases! Although there are plenty of ways to find reasonably priced rugs, going the vintage route will usually be more of an investment. Don’t settle! Wait for a quality source with a good return policy and watch out for new inventory.

   • You can join LillieKat’s VIP emails to get new inventory to your inbox each Thursday evening!

   • Ask for MORE! Ask the seller for more photos in different lighting or close ups of certain areas if you are concerned about color or quality. All of you Birmingham, AL girls can shop LilliKat in person (jealous).

   • Remember that you are searching for a handmade, artistic rug… someone knotted all of those rows by hand. Think of all the skill and talent it takes to make each of these beauties!

2. Don’t be scared of wear and tear! Well made rugs (that have often been around for 100+ years) are super durable. You can easily spot clean, or take to a specialty rug cleaner when you want a deep clean. We do recommend being sure that the rug won’t require cleaning upon arrival… if it does, the price should reflect that.

3. Keep it Classic: There is very little room for trends when it comes to vintage rugs… they will always be in style! You are, by nature, purchasing a timeless piece. If you know that you ALWAYS lean towards cool and pastel tones, then a great Oushak would be perfect. If you lean more traditional, check out a great Heriz style.

4. Sizing: By Nature, there is not standard sizing. This is great… most rooms are not perfectly 9.5’x12.5’ to accommodate a rug. However, this means you CAN find the perfect size, but should refer back to point #1.

5. Don’t Dismiss the Pricing: Don’t automatically assume that you have to go mainstream with rugs if you are on a budget. Discover new rug sellers through Instagram, local thrift stores, estate sales and even large retailers now carry vintage rugs. However, finding someone that you trust and can have a 1:1 conversation will help you find the perfect rug in your price point!

   • If you have a specific budget, style, or size in mind, get it out into the universe! Many rug sellers search full time, and they can get their hands on it for you.

   • Many retailers, like LillieKat offer flexible pricing through Klarna or other services. We don’t recommend overspending, but this does give you flexibility if you find the rug of your dreams and would prefer to split up the payments.

6. Layer! Layer a smaller rug over a large Sisal or natural rug to help define a space and to get a more versatile size that may be more budget friendly. Our favorite Sisal rug is perfect for this (we have 6 between the 2 of us)

7. Small Spaces: Purchasing smaller rugs can allow you to add pops of color in entryways, hallways, bathrooms and kitchens. We do this in our own homes.. We have larger, neutral rugs, and statement rugs in foyers and bathrooms.

Above: LillieKat Rugs //@courteygilesinteriors // @thedesignatlier

There’s so much to be said about an authentic, handwoven rug. Many big box retailers now sell one-of-a-kind rugs through their sites, but the price tend to be very high. As much as we love shopping these store for staples, we’d stick to a 1:1 relationship and expert for this purchase. Be honest about what you want and your budget, and they will help you find a solution.

We were thrilled to discover Kristie at LillieKat via Instagram. Running a small business is no small task, and her passion and authenticity shines through.

LillieKat reached out to us with interest in sharing her biz with you all, and in return, we were given a credit to her shop. We haven’t picked out anything (yet!), but we are searching the site and checking our VIP emails for the perfect rug! We can’t wait to share what we find. Thanks to LillieKat and to you for supporting Follow the Find!