Q: Is there any "homework " I can do before shopping for an Oriental?

A:   

1)  FOREMOST  .....   Select the rug first .....  particularly when you are re-doing a 

     whole room or house.  You can mix any paint to match a rug....

     It does not work the other way around!

2)  Measure the room in which you want a rug or carpeting.

3)  Summarize your lifestyle (children, pets, entertaining) and consider where and how the

     rug(s) will be used.

4)  Look through Architectural Digest, Interior Design, Veranda, Southern Living and

     other shelter magazines to study the variety of room styles and decor.

5)  Go window shopping.  Visit two or three stores without your checkbook in hand. 

     Begin to focus on the rugs that appeal to your taste in terms of design, color and texture.

6)  Establish a budget.  Now that you have shopped around and seen what you like, you

     are in a position to determine what you plan to spend. 

7)  Make a a list of places for serious shopping.