I ordered this 5'4" x 7'8" Penn State area rug in October 2008 for a Christmas gift. If I recall correctly, it was delivered in about a week. It was rolled unto a cardboard tube with plastic around it, which prevented it from being damaged during delivery. The rug has a short pile (1/8") which is tightly woven (you can't see the backing like you can in some lesser quality rugs). It is not the softest (because of the short pile), but it is more than sufficient. It is not a plush, "cushy" rug, however, we were looking for a QUALITY rug...one that was well made. The rug looks like it will last a number of years. The design is not "painted" on the rug. It is constructed with strands of yarn that are dyed the appropriate colors and then tightly woven into the backing. The edges are very well bound. It lays flat, with no buckles. We are very pleased with the quality and appearance of this rug. It looks great and was worth purchasing!! I looked for a PSU area rug on various online stores, and found Overstock to have the best price!