We get asked this question all of the time. Our answer is, the tighter (think tight boucle) the weave, the more coarse and uncomfortable for some customers underfoot. Looser and larger weaves, such as Monoblet or Berlin, are much softer underfoot. When customers inquire about sisal rugs, they are more often than not, not just asking about 100% sisal. They are curious about any of the natural fiber rugs we carry.
Gathering information from our customers is the best way to learn about what they are looking for and how we can help. It’s oftentimes that they don’t necessarily want a sisal rug, but a natural looking rug. We can then offer them many comparable options. We like to suggest our jute or wool weaves such as Barbados or Gillingham. Jute and wool are quite a bit softer than 100% sisal because they are organically softer fibers. They still have a comparably natural look. Sisal comes from the agave plant which produces a much stiffer, coarser fiber from its leaves. It’s what makes its durability stand out, but the feel is much coarser.
All of our weaves definitely have their pluses and minuses, but we are here for you and will share our knowledge. Our sales team is more than happy to walk you through your purchase of a natural fiber rug to make sure what you end up buying is best suited for your lifestyle.
Teneille Tierce is a former staff writer for Curran and sisalcarpet.com.
