Karastan rugs, established in 1928 and recognized for their quality and sustainability, have become a legacy brand in the rug industry, known as 'wonder rugs' that blend American ingenuity with global craftsmanship.
Karastan 700 series has enhanced the living spaces of American homes for nearly a century, becoming something of a legend in terms of color, design, durability, and cleanability, a woven legend for American homes.
Key Takeaways Karastan Area Rugs
The Karastan 700 series rugs, characterized by their elegance and diverse designs, will no longer see new additions but remain highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts for their classic beauty and quality.
Proper maintenance, including regular vacuuming, prompt spill management, and occasional professional services, extends the life and appearance of Karastan rugs, ensuring they remain a valuable and aesthetically pleasing part of home decor.
The History and Legacy of Karastan Rugs
Karastan Rugs is an American brand of machine woven area rugs made from 1928 to 2021 from made of quality worsted wool.
In 1921, the retailer Marshall Feilds established a textile mill in Eden, North Carolina, as part of its Homecrest Rug division. In 1928, one of its engineers, Eugene Clark, modified an Axminster Broadloom carpet loom to make something closely resembling a handwoven Persian carpet. These rugs were then marketed under the invented name "Karastan" with individual names based on famous rug-producing areas and designs in Asia such as Isfahan, Sarouk, Kerman, Oushak, Turkoman, and others.
Karastan Rugs made a name for itself at the 1933 Chicago Worlds Fair, when a Karastan rug was placed on the floor for millions of fairgoers to walk across, proving its durability. This solidfied Karastan rug is durable and long-lasting The 1937 Karastan produced the "Kirman 717" carpet design, which became the company's best-seller; with warm and cool colors, it's still in demand by people today.
These worsted wool wonders created by Karastan Rugs created a new niche in the rug market, offering the opulence of faraway lands at an affordable price of a macine made rug. With a commitment to style and pulling together primary colors with secondary colors, Karastan rugs created color harmonies with interiors. Even today, Karastan rugs endure the test of time and trends, remaining a go-to choice for discerning homeowners and interior designers alike.
The resilience and artistry of these rugs have graced numerous homes and have become an integral part of American history. Combining American achievement with global craftsmanship, Karastan has consistently offered high-quality rugs at affordable prices for nearly a century, establishing itself as a legacy brand in the industry.
The Karastan Rugs Collection - 700 Series
The 700 series of the Karastan Rugs Collection signifies a significant chapter in the brand's history. This specific lineup, known for its elegance and diversity, is now a collector's delight due to the store's decision to close out this particular selection.
The 700 series is a testament to Karastan's commitment to quality and design, and even as it transitions into rarity, it continues to be a sought-after range for those with a taste for classic beauty.
Although the future will not see new additions to the 700 series, the existing rugs in this collection remain a showcase of Karastan's legacy. The limited selection serves as a reminder of the brand's influence on the rug industry and its ability to create beautiful designs that have stood the test of time.
Size and Design Options
The 700 series of Karastan rugs offers a wide range of sizes and designs, catering to various tastes and space needs. From cozy, the most popular Karastan were 8x10 rugs followed by 9x12 rugs with size options as expansive as 12x18 to anchor a grand living room; the collection ensured that interior designers and homeowners could find the right fit for their spaces.
Furthermore, the array of designs, from abstract to traditional motifs, and different colors offers endless possibilities to create beautiful designs in any interior design style.
Wool Materials and Manufacturing
Karastan's moniker, "the wonder rug of America," is attributed to its use of quality American wool and manufacturing techniques with modified Axminster looms. The brand's worsted wool replicates the aesthetic and robustness of handcrafted Middle Eastern and Asian rugs. The 700 series Karastan rug s, showcased their commitment to excellence and tradition.
Size and Design Options
The 700 series of Karastan rugs offers a wide range of sizes and designs, catering to various tastes and space needs. From cozy 4x6 options perfect for a study nook to expansive 10x14 pieces that can anchor a grand living room, the collection ensures that interior designers and homeowners can find the right fit for their spaces.
Furthermore, the array of designs, from abstract to traditional motifs, offers endless possibilities to create beautiful designs in any interior design style.
While the future may not bring new styles or sizes from the 700 series, the existing selection holds a wealth of options for those looking to infuse their homes with a touch of Karastan's storied elegance. These rugs serve not just as floor coverings but as a canvas for expressing personal style and enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room.
All Good Things, The End Of Karastan Rugs
The Karastan factory in Eden, North Carolina, symbolized American industry and ingenuity for over 93 years. The factory, with its enormous production areas and iconic smokestack, became a landmark of the town, symbolizing a proud legacy of craftsmanship.
Karastan's ability to emulate the intricate design and quality of handmade Middle Eastern and Asian rugs earned it the moniker' the wonder rug of America'.
However, in a bittersweet turn of events, the Eden production facilities closed in 2021, marking the end of an era for Karastan 700 series rug and wool rug production.
The legacy of the rugs produced there, particularly the 700 series with designs like the 717 panel Kerman, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of rug aficionados and in the annals of decorative arts. Karastan company still exists the 700 serices is no longer made.
A loss for those that seek quality and affordability, Karastan was able to use their technical knowledge to create durable rugs with elements such as a palette of warm blue, greens, and yellow colors in designs that blended with architecture that designers and architects loved.
Adding Karastan Rugs into Your Home Decor
Integrating Karastan rugs into your home involves a thoughtful process that takes into account the room's formality, color intensity, space layout, and how the rug will blend with the existing color scheme. Karastan rugs, capable of commanding up to 30% of a room's color, can play the role of a dominant element with bold patterns or a more understated feature with neutral tones.
They are versatile pieces that can:
Define conversation areas.
Separate spaces in an open floor plan.
Add a layer of protection under furniture.
Boost the room's aesthetic appeal.
The journey of finding Karastan rugs for your home is not just about finding a color or pattern that appeals to you; it's about creating a visual and tactile experience that enhances your living space. By layering rugs or choosing a Karastan rug that complements the textures of your decor, you can craft an ambiance that is both sophisticated and personal.
Selecting the Right Size and Design
Vintage and used Karastan rugs are plentiful. Fear not for the wrong size Karastan rugs can be altered in size larger rugs can be made smaller and some Karastan rug designs can be sewn together to make larger sizes.
In the living room, achieving balance is key, and opting for a rug size that allows for consistent floor space around your furniture grouping can create a symmetrical and inviting aesthetic. Space planning plays a crucial role in this process. When it comes to dining areas, consider a rug that extends beyond the table dimensions to accommodate chairs, ensuring both comfort and functionality.
For bedrooms, the choice varies between a single large rug that exudes luxury or multiple smaller rugs that offer comfort and warmth around the bed. The right selection will not only enhance the room's look but also contribute to the overall functionality and comfort of your living space, proving that good design is as practical as it is beautiful.Color Palette Coordination
A Karastan rugs color palette, including paint colors, is a crucial element in achieving a cohesive interior design. Complementary color combinations from opposite sides of the color wheel, such as the vibrant contrast between yellow and purple, can make a bold statement and bring the hues in a Karastan rug to life. Alternatively, for a more unified look, selecting rugs that feature color schemes like an analogous color scheme of blue-green, blue-violet, or yellow-orange can create a subtle yet impactful design narrative.
The choice between warm and cool colors in a Karastan rug can set the mood of a room. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow create a cozy atmosphere, while cool colors like blue, green, and yellow-green evoke tranquility and can enhance the feel of a serene retreat, suitable for bedrooms or quiet study spaces. Integrating rugs with tints, tones, and shades can match or subtly contrast with the room's color palette, adding depth and interest to the space. This careful consideration of the color palette ensures that your Karastan rug is not just an addition to your room but an integral part of your home's story.
Designer Collaborations with Karastan Rugs
Karastan Rugs has always recognized the potential of collaborations, combining their traditional craft with the innovative ideas of modern designers. Recent partnerships, including those with Stacy Garcia, Drew and Jonathan Scott, and Bobby Berk, have infused the Karastan collection with new energy, reflecting the latest trends and styles in rug design. These collaborations speak to the brand's dynamic approach to interior design, continuously evolving to meet the demands of the modern interior design profession.
By aligning with visionary designers, Karastan ensures that their rugs not only serve as functional pieces but also as statements of design innovation. These partnerships have allowed Karastan to stay at the forefront of the rug industry, offering beautiful designs that resonate with both interior designers and homeowners alike.
Caring for Your Karastan Rug
To continue relishing the beauty of your Karastan rugs for years, their maintenance and durability are of the utmost importance. Karastan rugs should be treated the same way as a fine Persian rug with regular vacuuming. Vacuuming your Karastan rug is not just about cleanliness; it's about removing particular soils that cause wear, preserving the integrity of the fibers, and ensuring that your rug remains a hallmark of your home's elegance.
Addressing spills promptly and using the right techniques is also crucial to maintaining the rug's pristine condition and stain-resistant qualities. Karastan rugs are extremely durable as long as you provide basic care and maintenance.
While home care is important, your Karastan rug needs to be professionally cleaned outside your home by professional rug services with in-plant rug cleaning service. Professionals can offer specialized cleaning, repair, and maintenance that can extend the life of your Karastan rug, safeguarding your investment longevity and durability for decades.
Don't Forget A Rug Pad
Remember to consider the added value of a proper area rug pad, which will extend the life of your Karastan rug, add insulative warmth, absorb sound, and protect hard wood floors from harm.
Ensure the cushion fiber pad is made for area rug use with a felt top and a vinyl backing for gripping on slick surfaces.
How to Find A Rug Cleaner
Friends, family, and local dealers can help or seek out an ARCS (Association of Rug Care Specialists) certified rug cleaning service to care for your Karastan Rugs. Just like Oriental rugs, Karastan rugs need an expert in plant rug cleaning. ARCS certifies and trains rug cleaners, so you know you are getting a rug expert who understands how to care for your rugs.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
The key to a well-maintained Karastan rug lies in the routine. Regular vacuuming not only enhances its appearance but also prevents the buildup of dust and allergens, contributing to a healthier living environment. When it comes to spills, acting quickly and using appropriate cleaning methods can prevent stains from setting and preserve the rug's aesthetic.
Beyond daily care, periodic deep cleaning and professional assessment, especially for high-traffic areas, are important. These maintenance steps ensure that your Karastan rug remains a vibrant and integral part of your home decor, reflecting your personal style and commitment to quality.
Professional Rug Services
There are moments when the care of a Karastan rug goes beyond routine maintenance and requires the touch of a professional. Expert repair services are essential for addressing wear and tear, as they are skilled in re-stitching damaged fibers and preventing further unraveling. These specialized interventions can help maintain the rug's beauty and function for much longer than would be possible through home care alone.
Promptly seeking professional help for any rug damage can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line, or even the need for full replacement. Investing in professional rug services is not only about repair but also about preserving the heritage and value of your Karastan rug, ensuring it can continue to be a centerpiece in your home for generations.
Summary
As we reach the end of our exploration into the world of Karastan 700 series rugs, it's clear that these pieces are more than just floor coverings; they are woven narratives of history, design, and craftsmanship. Karastan has consistently proven its ability to blend tradition with trendsetting, from the romanticized "wonder rugs" that captured the imagination of a bygone era to the contemporary designs born from designer collaborations.
Whether you are a collector, an interior design enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the finer details in home decor, Karastan offers something unique. The legacy of the factory in Eden, the timeless elegance of the 700 series, and the care that goes into each rug ensure that Karastan will continue to be a cherished name in homes around the world. May your Karastan rug not only be a statement of your style but also a testament to the enduring beauty and quality that Karastan has woven for nearly a century.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rug holds up the best?
Wool, cotton/flat-weave, and jute or sisal rugs hold up the best due to their resilience and durability. Wool is known for its resilience, cotton/flat-weave rugs are durable, and jute or sisal rugs are strong and affordable.
Where did Karastan rugs come from?
Karastan rugs are still crafted in Eden, NC, and Karastan is now the largest manufacturer of worsted wool rugs in the United States. The company is committed to environmental protection and sustainability.
Is Karastan still in business?
Yes, Karastan is still in business, but they have stopped producing wool 700 seriesd rugs and have consolidated their production to Georgia, focusing on synthetic carpets.
Is a Karastan rug an Oriental rug?
Technically No, Karastan rugs are a n Oriental rug style as it is an American brand of oriental rug style machine made from worsted wool. It was established in 1921 by a retailer called Marshall Field's in North Carolina. What is an "oriental rug" click here.
Is Karastan Rug worth the money?
Yes, Karastan carpet is worth the money due to its long-standing reputation for quality, beauty, and durability, using pure New Zealand wool.