Modern "Deco" Area Rug in Need of Repair

It does not appear that there is a lot of interest in rugs but thought someone might offer some views.  Recently purchased this small (circa 3' x 6') area rug - didn't pay much because of the condition but I was especially attracted by the design/colors.  It definitely needs to be secured along the length and I am sadly lacking of the skills.  I am considering having professionally bound but it's pricey so thought someone might have a recommendation.   Thanks

If it were mine, and for my personal use and enjoyment, I would just thread a large needle or sewing bobbin with matching thread and bind the edges using an overhand stitch, catching in one or two of the white warp threads and incorporating any loose ones. I would make it look neat, and where the warp thread is tending towards the edge, I would push it back into place with the large needle, and straighten it up. The stitch would show underneath but you should be able to hide it amongst the pile on the front side. I would then trim off the loose ends of thread, and that would be all. If you think this is an antique textile that needs to be preserved, then perhaps you should talk to professional restorers, but as you say, that would be expensive.

If it were mine, and for my personal use and enjoyment, I would just thread a large needle or sewing bobbin with matching thread and bind the edges using an overhand stitch, catching in one or two of the white warp threads and incorporating any loose ones. I would make it look neat, and where the warp thread is tending towards the edge, I would push it back into place with the large needle, and straighten it up. The stitch would show underneath but you should be able to hide it amongst the pile on the front side. I would then trim off the loose ends of thread, and that would be all. If you think this is an antique textile that needs to be preserved, then perhaps you should talk to professional restorers, but as you say, that would be expensive.

Thanks so much for the recommendation. I'm going to give it a try, with a little help from friends! I'll let you know.

I should have said bodkin, not bobbin! That is a very interesting rug, complex design, it repays being stared at for a bit.   Is there a label on it anywhere? And are those warp threads fringing the far end?  I am just curious! it has a bit of a look of Anni Albers about it, except it is busier than the examples shown in Images.

Fascinating observation re Albers - thanks much.  Re your question - yes, there is a now faint indication of the maker - which I did't even notice at first.  I am going to try to attach a photo.  It is by Sanford of Amsterdam, NY, that much is clear.  I'm still researching but I believe it can be fairly accurately dated by this info - which I think indicates a date of approximately 1930 - again, still researching.  Thanks again for your comments and recommendations.

Hi - thanks - well you might just have something a bit special there, I would not take a needle to it until you have had it valued ( have you had it valued?) Albers was teaching weaving at Black Mountain college in USA in the 1930s and she had students. Its always possible that she or one of her students might have designs commissioned by a commercial firm, it is the right age. Please don't pin too much on what I am saying I am functioning at the edge of my knowledge here, but I would now advise finding a textile specialist auction house and ask about its authentication and value, and do not attempt any work on it before then. Good luck

Thanks again - agree - which is why I have been reluctant to take on the task until I am sure. With your encouragement plan to take it to the Textile Museum in DC - they host a weekly "show and tell" - I used to attend and found it very instructive but the museum changed locations a few years ago, was closed for a bit, and I just haven't gotten around to a visit - this provides an excuse! Probably won't get there for the next few weeks but if/when I learn anything I'll certainly let you (and others) know. By the way, just added a photo of the back - thought I did so before but it was not visible so have attached again.

Excellent plan! I am sure they will be pleased to see it, I keep going back for another look and there is a lot to see in that design. They will be able to advise you about the edging too. Yes please let us know the outcome! I have enjoyed seeing your rug - thanks for posting and sending the label too. Good luck!