How do you measure what size of area rug for your room?

I just eyeballed it when I bought an area rug for our living room, but I don't recommend following suit. Here is some more official advice Keep at least 18 inches of bare floor exposed by the rug's edges. Selecting a rug for the living room usually comes down to three choices: 5x8, 8x10, or 9x12. Some size guides recommend that either all the furniture rests on the rug.

I bought one for around my Love seat. The rug is 64x 41. I got it at Tuesday Morning. It had a slight snag and they gave me a percentage off.

Which room are you wanting to measure for an area rug? Different rooms, different rug size needs... ie: a rug under a dining table should extend 3 feet from edge of table to allow proper space for chairs to still sit on it when dining. Living room? well then your rug should define your whole seating area, not just be in front of your sofa like a postage stamp... the rug should be large enough for at least the front legs of the sofa and other chairs across from it should be on the rug...

Hope that helps. Liz http://SimpleDecoratingTips.com