How much is my rug worth?
Three questions decide most of a rug’s value: how it was made, how big it is, and what condition it is in. After that come the finer points: knot count, materials, dyes, design and age. A hand-knotted wool rug in good condition is usually worth several times a machine-made rug of the same size.
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Hand-knotted rugs are worth the most because they take the most work: a 9x12 can take a weaver many months. Hand-tufted rugs are faster to make and wear out sooner. Machine-made rugs are worth little on the secondhand market, whatever they cost new.
Size
Value grows with area. Prices are often compared per square foot, so measure the rug without the fringe. A large rug in good condition is easier to sell than a small one, because fewer large rugs come up.
Knot count and materials
More knots per square inch means finer detail and more work. Hand-spun wool, natural dyes and silk highlights all add value. Silk-and-wool rugs and very fine city rugs sit at the top of the market.
Design and origin
Some designs and weaving regions are sought after: classic Persian city rugs such as Heriz, Tabriz and Kashan, fine tribal pieces, and well-drawn Turkmen designs among them. A good design is clear, balanced and well finished at the borders.
Age
Antique means 100 years or older; vintage usually means 20 to 100. Age adds value only when the rug is in good condition. A worn-out old rug can be worth less than a sound new one.
Condition
Worn pile, holes, stains, moth damage, color run, curling edges and damaged fringe all lower value. Many problems can be repaired by a specialist, but the cost of the repair comes off the value.
How to get an estimate
For a quick estimate, photograph the whole rug laid flat in daylight and a close-up of the back of one corner, and note the size. For insurance, an estate or a sale, have a qualified appraiser see the rug in person.
Quick answers
Are old rugs always valuable?
No. Condition matters as much as age. A worn or damaged old rug can be worth less than a newer rug in good condition.
Is a rug worth what I paid for it?
Rarely. Resale prices are usually well below retail prices, except for rare, fine or antique pieces in good condition.
How do I sell a handmade rug?
Get an estimate first, then compare offers from rug dealers, consignment galleries and auction houses. Clean photos of the front and back and an accurate size make offers faster and more accurate.
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How it was made, the design, likely origin and an estimated value.
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