Picking a Style: Pile Types & Textures Carpet isn’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to texture. Here are a few popular pile types and what they’re best for:
Twist Pile:
This is one of the most common styles. It’s a cut pile (the yarn tips are cut) where the fibres are twisted tightly. The result is a slightly textured surface with a grain – if you stroke it one way it looks lighter than the other. Twist piles (often made of wool or nylon) are fantastic all-rounders. They’re hard-wearing and don’t show footprints much, especially if they’re heathered (multi-tonal). Great for almost any room.
Loop Pile (Berber):
Loop pile means the yarn isn’t cut but left in loops. It can be level loop (all loops same height) or multi-level for a pattern effect. Loop carpets tend to be very durable and hide wear well. They give a casual, textured look. Be careful if you have pets that might snag loops with their claws – a pulled loop can cause a “run” in the carpet.
Saxony:
Saxony is a cut pile that’s long and plush. Think of those irresistibly soft carpets where you can see your footprints (they’re sometimes called “velvet” carpets too). Saxonies give a luxurious, opulent feel – perfect for a master bedroom or a low-traffic lounge. They do show shading and marks though, so not ideal for high traffic or kids’ areas.
Cut and Loop:
This style combines both cut pile and loop pile in the same carpet to create patterns (could be geometric, swirls, etc). It was a hit in retro 70s carpets and is making a comeback. A cut-and-loop carpet can give you a sculpted look – for example, a subtle square pattern that appears as a texture. These are more about style; choose them when you want the floor to have a design element even in a single colour.
Shag/Frieze:
Shag piles are very long cut piles (think 1970s shag rug). Frieze is similar but the yarns are twisted and kinked, and of medium length. These have a very deep, nubbly texture. They can be super cosy (popular as area rugs or in a funky chill-out space), but are not common for whole-house carpeting these days. They tend to flatten in traffic and can be harder to clean.
When choosing texture, consider practicalities: a very smooth velvet carpet can show vacuum lines and footprints but looks wonderfully elegant. A textured or flecked carpet will be more forgiving of everyday bits and bobs between vacuums. Also, feel it with your hand – some people love a wool loop’s firm feel, others prefer the sink-in plushness of a saxony. It’s personal preference, just remember that often the more textured a carpet, the better it will age in a busy household.
Please come back for part 3
We will be looking at Underlay, Colour & Pattern Considerations and Quality vs Budget
