Our 8 Types of Sheepskin Rug, and Which One Is Right For You

We all know that life is better with sheep and wool. But, unless you actually live on a farm or have a secret love for Shetland ponies, those fluffy creatures aren’t exactly the most accessible friends we can have. Unless, of course, you invest in their skins as rugs for your home. In an environment as sterile and artificial as today’s world, it’s no wonder that natural accents are growing in popularity as home décor staples. Natural fibres like wool are warming, inviting, and give any space an organic feel that humans instinctively recognize as safe and comforting. Whether you love the outdoors or need something cosy to cuddle up with on the coldest nights of winter, there’s a type of sheepskin rug out there just waiting for you to adopt it into your home – and here we at HideRugs will show you exactly which one you should get!

What is a Sheepskin Rug?

A sheepskin rug is exactly what it sounds like: a piece of fabric created from the skin of a sheep. Most of these rugs are made from sheep’s wool, which is an incredibly durable and versatile material that is both warm and soft. Sheepskin rugs come in a wide range of sizes and styles, so there’s sure to be one that fits in with the decor of your home, whether it’s modern or rustic. These rugs are designed to be placed on the floor, since they are quite large and bulky. Sheepskin rugs can be found in a wide variety of colours, including natural shades like beige and brown, as well as bolder, more vibrant hues. Be sure to choose a colour that will fit in with the rest of your décor!

Classic Sheepskin Hides

The classic sheepskin hide is most likely the one that you picture when you think of sheepskin rugs. This type of sheepskin rug is created from the underbelly of a sheep – the part that would be covered by wool if the sheep was fully shorn. On a sheepskin rug, this part is left unrolled and undisturbed, so you can see all of the natural markings and patterns that are present on the skin. Since this is the most common type of sheepskin rug, it is also the most affordable. Because of their classic design, these sheepskin rugs pair exceptionally well with any type of décor as long as you’re careful about choosing a colour that matches. These are an excellent choice for families, as they can easily be wiped clean and will last for years. However, it is important to note that these sheepskin rugs are made from natural materials, so they will not stay completely clean forever. Sheepskin rugs are often treated with oils, and some even come scented!

Icelandic Sheepskin Hides

Icelandic sheepskin rugs are a little more high-end than their classic counterparts. These rugs are made from the sheep’s back end, which, in contrast to the belly, is entirely covered with wool and free of markings. This makes the Icelandic sheepskin rug a much more uniform piece of furniture; however, it also means that the rug will lack the natural beauty of a classic hide. Icelandic sheepskin rugs are more expensive than classic ones, but they are also much thicker and softer. This makes them perfect for use in high-traffic areas, or as a luxurious throw in a bedroom or living room. Icelandic sheepskin rugs come in a wide range of colours, including natural shades like beige, brown, tan, and grey, as well as more vibrant colours like red, blue, and green. Choose a colour that will blend in with your decor or make a bold statement with a bold colour! These rugs are easy to clean, and can even be put in the washing machine!

Large Sheepskin Hides

Large sheepskin rugs are so named because, well, they’re really really large! These rugs are made from the entire sheepskin, including the legs, head, and torso. Large sheepskin rugs are the most expensive type of sheepskin rug, but they also tend to be the most luxurious. These rugs are generally not used as an indoor rug, but instead are designed to be placed outside on the patio or deck, or even inside a rustic or cabin-feeling garage. Large sheepskin rugs tend to be larger than most people expect, so be sure to measure before you buy! These rugs are perfect for outdoor use because they are designed to be resistant to water and other outdoor elements. They can also be used indoors, but they do tend to be rather cumbersome. These rugs do not have a standard shape, and they can be difficult to fold up and store away when not in use.

British Rare Breed Sheepskin Hides

British rare breed sheepskin rugs are also made from the entire sheepskin, but they are far more specific than large sheepskin rugs. These rugs are made from the hides of specific breeds of sheep that are indigenous to the United Kingdom, including the Herford, Manx Loghtan, and Jacob. British rare breed sheepskin rugs are very expensive due to the rarity of the hides and the fact that these breeds are no longer raised for wool. These rugs are also very large, but, unlike the large sheepskin rugs, they are not designed for outdoor use. These rugs are crafted with intricate stitching and specific designs, as well as luxurious materials, so they are quite expensive. These rugs are perfect for a rustic or cabin-like interior, and they look especially beautiful when paired with wooden furniture. British rare breed sheepskin rugs are very thick and plush, making them an excellent choice for a living room. They are easy to clean and can even be machine washed!

Designer Sheepskin Hides

Designer sheepskin rugs are designed with a specific purpose in mind, so they are not made from the entire hide. Instead, these rugs are made from only certain parts of the hide, like only the legs or only the torso. This allows designers to create a specific look using only a small part of the skin. Designer sheepskin rugs are not very common, but they are available, and they can be very beautiful in the right setting. Designer sheepskin rugs are made from the highest-quality skins, so they are very expensive, but they can be a great investment for a high-end interior. Choose a designer sheepskin rug that complements your decor, and it will add luxury to your space. Some even only fit in one foot long, which makes them perfect for a coffee table or as a throw, but they may not be suitable for a larger room unless they are paired with other rugs. Designer sheepskin rugs are easy to clean and care for, but they are more delicate than other types of sheepskin rugs.

Pet Sheepskin Hides

Pet sheepskin rugs are a great way to spoil your pet without actually spoiling them! These rugs are made from only the legs of the sheep, so they are very thin and they feel very soft to the touch. Pet sheepskin rugs come in a wide variety of sizes and colours, so you can be sure to find the right fit for your pet! These rugs are perfect for keeping your furry friend warm and cosy on chilly nights. Some pet sheepskin rugs come scented, which is great for pets with anxiety! Be sure to choose a scent that complements your home décor, or you may end up with an interesting smell in your home. Pet sheepskin rugs are also easy to clean, and are generally machine washable.

Bespoke Sheepskin Hides

Bespoke sheepskin rugs are truly one of a kind – literally! With a bespoke sheepskin rug, you can order a rug made from the skin of one sheep, or you can order a rug made from multiple skins to get the exact design you want. Bespoke sheepskin rugs are incredibly expensive, but they are also completely unique and completely tailored to your preferences. If you want a sheepskin rug but you don’t want to settle for an “off the shelf” option, a bespoke rug can be made for you.