Braided Rugs & History

Braided rugs have been adorning floors in homes for a long time. In fact, they are were a creation of early American settlers. You see, braided rugs actually replaced animal skins as the floor covering of choice back in those days. Rugs were a necessity back then since the floors contained many cracks which let in the cold outdoor air. To insulate the home, rugs covered the floors to keep out the cold.

When the idea of having animal skin on the floor became unacceptable, women started gathering old pieces of fabric from worn clothes or from leftover pieces of fabric. They would then work these pieces into a braid in the same way they would braid their daughters' hair. After being braided, all of the pieces would be sewn together to create a rug. Of course, these rugs made of mis-matched fabric pieces would have been very colorful and unique.

Because braided rugs could be made completely from hand using whatever settlers had lying around, they become quite popular. Of course, eventually, braided rugs were joined by other types of rugs and rug-making.

In the mid-1900's, however, more people began to be interested in braided rugs. Rug makers started trading fabric pieces in order to create a wide variety of looks that resembled the eclectic style of those original braided rugs.

Today, braided rugs usually have a more consistent style. They also come in a variety of materials, including wool and chenille. Even though most of the early braided rugs were circular, modern braided rugs can be both round and rectangular. That means they can serve as accents or area rugs.

Another benefit of braided rugs is that they are an affordable option. Depending on the size and material you pick, you can usually find one that will fit almost any budget.

Click here to view our selection of braided rugs.