Area rugs have today evolved into a treasure valued greatly by collectors. To become an antique area rug collector therefore, you must be prepared for a treasure hunt that is both thrilling and tough. Any type of collecting usually takes a lot of time and meticulous organization. An area rug collector must be an auction savvy individual with a magnifying glass on the ready to spot the stains and the tears, a measuring tape to check on the dimensions, a coin purse packed with spare change for the bargains, a calculator to make quick and accurate appraisal sums and a small screw driver to mark out the level of wear in each area rug.

As a collector, you must know not just the basics but the essential information on area rugs – the types, designs, rates, fabrics, etc. As you go around your hunting expeditions, you must have the important notes with you as your guidelines. Money should also be generously spared for buying your area rugs collection. A lot of rugs are not cheap. Some are actually as expensive as artworks.

Key information collectors look out for are the designs, types, materials, origin, value, availability, market demand and manufacturers of the rugs.

Auctions are eminent venues for collectors. An experienced collector is ready with his key notes on the marketability, identity and worth of the area rugs. A novice collector, perhaps you very soon, will best to learn a thing or two from this strategy. The more you are familiar with the in-demand or valuable area rug, you’ll know when best to bid and when to give up or never to give up. Know the rug’s worth beforehand. Be ready for battle and you’ll have more chances of winning the price – the sought-after area rug.

Then the collector must ensure value for his or her money during acquisition. A collection isn’t always judged based on the number of items acquired but on its total value. Collectors must always insist on getting the best value because the essence is to establish a collection of few but the best area rugs. If the antique rugs are being bought for personalized gifts, the items should be accompanied by a card that explains where the item was found it and why it is special for the recipient.

As a collector, you are not required to hoard and compete in number. Collections are all about the worth of the objects. It’s about being a rare find, one with an amazing story or rich in history. Finally, being a collector is all about you. What may be trash for others may be treasures for you and vice-versa. Collect rugs that you personally like. Making it grow will always be an enjoyable venture because you love what you are doing.

Zoey Callehan is an interior design writer for HouseofAreaRugs.com – an online rug store dedicated to bringing you the best in Persian style rugs and transitional rugs.