Glossary of Area Rug, carpet

Acrylic – Man-made synthetic fiber used as a less expensive alternative to wool. A type of synthetic fiber made from a polymer which may consist wholly of polyacrylonitrile or a copolymer of a mixture of acrylonitrile with another vinyl compound.

Art Silk – Artificial silk yarn for weaving that is made from cotton, rayon or polyester that resembles silk. It is soft to the touch and more affordable than the expensive silk originals.

Aubusson – Style of rug that originated in France in the 15th century. Aubusson evolved into several main styles over the course of the next four centuries, including popular Antoinette, Josephine and Maison patterns. Aubusson were originally flat-weave rugs, usually featuring a floral medallion and pastel colors, but today these rug patterns have been adapted for pile rugs