How We Restore Faded Rugs – Color Loss Doesn’t Mean It’s Over
Rug color fading is heartbreaking — especially when the piece holds sentimental or historic value. Whether your rug has been bleached by years of sunlight, improper cleaning agents, or time itself, it can often be restored beautifullywithout destroying its character.
At Ahmadi Rug, we specialize in authentic faded rug restoration — including a technique few in the industry still perform: precision shearing by hand.
What Causes Rug Fading?
- Sunlight Exposure (UV Bleaching)
- Harsh Chemical Cleaners (like bleach or alcohol)
- Poor Storage Conditions (humidity, mildew)
- Aging Natural Dyes losing vibrancy
- Previous Bad Restoration (overpainting or synthetic dyes)
Our Signature Process: Gentle Shearing
One of the most effective — and overlooked — methods for faded rug restoration is gentle surface shearing.
Here’s what we do:
Step 1: Rug Diagnosis
We inspect the rug under natural and artificial light, checking for:
- Uneven color loss
- Burnout patches
- Fiber integrity
- Dye behavior (natural vs synthetic)
Step 2: Surface Shearing
Using a handheld shearing tool, we remove an ultra-thin layer of the faded surface — usually less than a millimeter— to reveal richer color underneath.
💡 This is not “shaving” or carpet trimming. It’s surgical precision.
We do it by hand to avoid cutting knots or damaging the structure.
This technique is ideal for:
- Sun-bleached rugs (usually only top layer affected)
- Wool rugs with naturally dyed fiber
- Antique rugs with solid foundation but dulled surface
Step 3: Deep Wash & Dry
After shearing, we gently wash the rug using pH-balanced solutions to lift embedded dust and bring out tone.
Step 4: Optional Color Correction
If needed, we use natural, hand-prepared dye blends to touch up only where necessary — never paint or color spray the rug.
🎨 “We don’t dye to hide damage. We dye to honor the original palette.”
Before & After Example: Sun-Faded Heriz Revival
A 90-year-old Heriz rug sat in front of a large window for 15 years. The center medallion was almost white from sun exposure. After shearing and gentle dye work, the original terracotta and navy hues returned, and the rug was reinstalled in the same space with UV-protective film added.
What We Don’t Do
We don’t:
- Paint rugs
- Overdye with synthetic chemicals
- Use any machinery that could slice into foundation
- Fake color by “dyeing over dirt”
Why Shearing Works (And Why Few Do It)
Most rug repair shops avoid shearing because:
- It takes time, precision, and hand skill
- It requires deep knowledge of knot types and pile depth
- If done wrong, it ruins the rug permanently
At Ahmadi Rug, we’ve passed down shearing tools and technique from father to son for over 40 years.
It’s an art form — not a quick fix.
Ideal for These Rug Types:
- Antique Persian Rugs (Tabriz, Kashan, Isfahan)
- Vintage Tribal or Turkish Rugs
- Wool Rugs with Natural Vegetable Dyes
- Rugs stored in basements or exposed to Chicago sun
- Sentimental or passed-down rugs that deserve revival
Schedule a Faded Rug Evaluation
Not all faded rugs need to be replaced.
Let’s bring yours back to life — the right way.
📋 [Book a Restoration Consult]
📞 (847) 779‑3288
🕰️ Fast turnaround for light shearing / color fix cases
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❓FAQ
Can I use rug dye spray from Amazon?
We don’t recommend it. It often bleeds, smells, or stains the rug long-term.
Is shearing safe for all rugs?
No — we test fibers first. Very thin or silk rugs may need alternative methods.
Will my rug look new again?
Not “brand new” — but it will look alive, clean, balanced, and more vibrant while maintaining its antique charm.
