My expectations were far surpassed on the design and quality of this carpet. I was a little nervous looking at the stock picture of this carpet as it looks almost faded out in coloring but that is not the case at all. It has a bright beautiful design. The variation in coloring comes from whichever water the fibers are pushed, one way is a darker blue the other is like a shimmery blueish gray. It is literally like the carpet shines!!! The binding is very well done no fraying or looseness at all. The backing is perfect, none of the little crumbly stuff falling off, although I would suggest a non slip mat if using on wood or tile floors. I am very impressed with the feeling of the carpet although it is on the thinner side it feels thick when walking on it and has nice bounce almost as if it is padded. The best part is how soft and silky feeling  is which is great for my little one to lay/crawl/play on.