Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachael Vrielynck.
Rachael, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey into rug making began in 2019, almost by accident. I was exploring different creative outlets, experimenting with various forms of art, when I stumbled upon the idea of making rugs. What started as a simple, fun project quickly turned into a passion. The tactile nature of working with textiles and the ability to create something both functional and beautiful drew me in.
At first, I focused on creating traditional rugs, but my curiosity soon led me to push the boundaries of what a rug could be. I began experimenting with different textures, shapes, and scales, transforming rugs from mere floor coverings into dynamic pieces of art. The possibilities seemed endless, and I was excited to explore every facet of this medium.
My first major breakthrough came when I received an order for over 100 rugs, to be completed in just six weeks. It was a daunting task, but I dove in headfirst, eager to prove myself. However, the experience was a double-edged sword. While it taught me a lot about the demands of large-scale production, it also showed me that mass production wasn’t where my heart was. I realized that I didn’t want to simply churn out rugs—I wanted to create something more meaningful.
That realization led me to pivot. I started to think about how I could take my rug-making to the next level. I began experimenting with larger, more intricate designs, and I started seeing rugs not just as functional items but as a medium for art installations. This shift in perspective opened up new opportunities for me, particularly in the world of experiential marketing. I began collaborating with brands, creating custom rugs and installations that brought their logos and products to life in a whole new way.
Today, my work is all about creating immersive experiences through rug art. Whether it’s a giant, fluffy sculpture of a product or a custom-designed rug that doubles as wall art, my goal is to push the boundaries of what’s possible with textiles. I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible brands, helping them connect with their audiences in unique and memorable ways.
Throughout this journey, I’ve stayed true to the passion that first drew me to rug making—the joy of creation and the excitement of pushing the limits of my craft. My story is still evolving, but at its core, it’s about finding new ways to bring art to life through the medium of rugs.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to where I am today has definitely had its share of bumps and challenges. Like any creative journey, it’s been filled with moments of doubt, trial and error, and the need to constantly adapt.
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was managing the demands of large-scale production. When I received my first major order for over 100 rugs in just six weeks, I was thrilled by the opportunity. But the reality of meeting such a tight deadline quickly set in. The intense workload and pressure to deliver took a toll on my creativity and enjoyment. It was a pivotal moment where I realized that mass production wasn’t aligned with my passion for creating meaningful, unique pieces.
This led me to pivot my focus towards more customized, experiential projects, but that transition wasn’t without its own obstacles. Shifting from fulfilling bulk orders to working on large-scale installations required me to rethink my entire approach, from how I marketed my work to how I collaborated with brands. There were times when I questioned whether I was on the right path, especially when navigating the business side of things like pricing, logistics, and client expectations.
Another challenge was avoiding burnout. As someone who loves to push the limits of my craft, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new projects and take on too much. I’ve had to learn how to pace myself, set boundaries, and focus on projects that truly align with my creative vision. Finding that balance has been crucial in maintaining my passion and avoiding creative fatigue.
Despite these challenges, each obstacle has taught me valuable lessons. I’ve learned the importance of staying true to what I love, even if it means making difficult decisions or changing direction. The struggles along the way have shaped my approach to my work, helping me refine my craft and ultimately find my purpose in creating art that resonates with others.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about TheRugDealer.co?
My business, known as The Rug Dealer, is all about transforming the traditional concept of rugs into something far more dynamic and engaging. I specialize in creating custom rugs and large-scale installations that blend art with experiential marketing. My work ranges from intricate brand logos crafted into rugs to giant, three-dimensional sculptures made entirely of textiles. What sets my brand apart is the ability to take a simple, everyday object like a rug and push its boundaries to create immersive experiences that resonate with people on a deep, emotional level.
A significant aspect of my work is content creation. I don’t just create rugs; I document the entire creative process, from concept to completion, sharing it with my audience through engaging content. This allows me to build a strong connection with my followers, who are captivated by the transformation of raw materials into something extraordinary. My content often reaches millions, and this exposure amplifies the impact of the collaborations I undertake with brands. By combining artistry with content creation, I’m able to offer my clients not just a final product, but an entire narrative that enhances their brand’s story.
Collaboration is at the heart of my business. I work closely with brands to bring their visions to life, whether it’s through custom gifts, unique installations for events, or large-scale projects that capture attention and create lasting memories. My expertise in combining art with branding allows me to create pieces that are not just visually stunning but also serve as powerful marketing tools.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the ability to consistently innovate and challenge the norms of what can be done with textiles. My work is known for its creativity, scale, and the ability to connect with diverse audiences. For example, one of my standout projects was a collaboration with Krylon, where I created a 6-foot-tall rug sculpture of a spray can. This project exemplifies how my work goes beyond traditional art, turning it into an interactive experience that draws people in.
What I want readers to know about my brand is that everything I create is highly customized and crafted with the intent to make an impact. Whether you’re a brand looking for a unique way to engage your audience, an artist wanting to collaborate, or someone interested in a bespoke piece for your space, I’m all about bringing your vision to life through the medium of rugs.
Additionally, I offer a range of services, from custom rug designs and large-scale installations to interior remodels for experiential spaces like pop-up bars. Each project is approached with a deep understanding of both art and marketing, ensuring that the final product not only looks incredible but also serves its purpose in engaging and inspiring people.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, my work emphasizes the importance of tangible, in-person experiences. I believe that art should be something people can connect with physically, and my goal is to create pieces that leave a lasting impression long after the event or interaction is over.
Ultimately, The Rug Dealer is about more than just rugs—it’s about pushing creative boundaries, forging meaningful collaborations, and creating art that truly resonates with people, all while sharing the journey through compelling content that amplifies the impact of every project.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
One thing I’d like to share with readers is the importance of following your curiosity and being fearless in your creative journey. My path to where I am today wasn’t straightforward—it involved a lot of experimentation, trial and error, and pivots. But each step, whether it was a success or a challenge, helped me refine my craft and discover what truly makes me passionate.
I also want to emphasize the value of collaboration. Working with others, whether they’re fellow artists or brands, has allowed me to push the boundaries of what’s possible and create work that’s more impactful than I could have achieved on my own. There’s something incredibly powerful about bringing different perspectives and talents together to create something unique.
Lastly, I encourage everyone to stay open to new possibilities. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. Sometimes, the best ideas come from unexpected places, and the key is to remain adaptable and willing to explore new directions. This mindset has been essential in my journey, and I believe it can help others find their own purpose and success as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: Therugdealer.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therugdealer.co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Therugdealer.co
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@therugdealerco?si=HVVNpEpV3jnIRPc-
Image Credits
Photography: Alvaro Hernandez
