The stain- and soil-resistance properties of Stainmaster area rugs are making a strong showing at the Atlanta International Area Rug Market, according to Invista, the company that provides Stainmaster fiber to rug mills.

During the Jan. 20-23 exhibit held at the AmericasMart-Atlanta, three major rug mills are collectively unveiling 36 new styles manufactured using Invista's premium nylon, which is designed to resist stains and soil as well as matting and crushing. The company said Gulistan, Milliken and Shaw Living are all rolling out new area rugs crafted with Stainmaster.

"This record number of introductions by these mills demonstrates the expansion and strength of the Stainmaster brand among manufacturers, retailers and consumers," said Invista's vice president of home and hospitality, Ana Torrence. "It is a strong indicator of consumer and industry preference for the styling and performance associated with the Stainmaster brand."

Gulistan, the first manufacturer to launch a line of woven Stainmaster area rugs, is introducing 12 intricate patterns with designs in both traditional Persian motifs and transitional patterns. Additionally, the company is adding 10 new hand-carved styles to its Stainmaster area rug 1000 collection which is designed to create a relaxing environment with soft shades of blue, teal and green.

Milliken is adding to its Stainmaster area rug offering with 10 more styles in the Pastiche Collection, an upbeat eclectic collection featuring vibrant colors and soft-fiber technology.

Shaw Living is using the Atlanta show to introduce its Versant Collection, a new collection of Stainmaster area rugs constructed of nylon fiber. The area rugs, which feature elegant, multi-level textured cut and loop pile construction targeted to consumers interested in both design and durability, are available in four colors: sand, lichen, sisal and wine.

"Our goal with the Versant collection was to specifically say 'more with less' by utilizing natural textures combined with updated colors to achieve a soft yet vibrant statement," said Shaw Living brand manager, Kimberly Barta. "The slight tonal variation between the cut and loop lends a depth and richness of tone reminiscent of a hand tufted product."