How to Turn a Remnant into an Area Rug
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Area rugs can add much style, warmth and color to a room; they can be used to anchor a seating or conversation area, add texture and comfort in front of a hearth, or make tile flooring in an entry, bathroom or kitchen less chilling. They can make a nice accent for any room, adding another layer of interest to coordinate with throw pillows, metal wall sculptures, lamps, paintings or copper wall art. If you've ever searched for area rugs online, in catalogs or in stores, you already know that they can be expensive, and this is especially true with larger sized rugs.
However, with a little effort and patience you can turn a carpet remnant into an area rug for very little; as a bonus for your labor, you get a carpet that is exactly the dimensions and shape that you need. Carpet stores and home improvement stores sell remnants at huge discounts. Select a remnant that is larger than the planned size of your finished area rug.
Photo credit to ni-magazine.
However, with a little effort and patience you can turn a carpet remnant into an area rug for very little; as a bonus for your labor, you get a carpet that is exactly the dimensions and shape that you need. Carpet stores and home improvement stores sell remnants at huge discounts. Select a remnant that is larger than the planned size of your finished area rug.
Photo credit to ni-magazine.
Supplies for this Project
Carpet remnant of your choice
Roll of brown paper and cardboard
White glue (not school glue); or, carpet edging glue from a carpet store
Pencil, measuring tape, masking tape
Carpet knife
Roll of brown paper and cardboard
White glue (not school glue); or, carpet edging glue from a carpet store
Pencil, measuring tape, masking tape
Carpet knife
Step 1: Make a Pattern
You probably already have a general idea of the size of the area rug but now you need to get more specific. Measure the space where the rug will go and account for potential problems, such as swinging doors, large pieces of furniture, built-in trim and woodwork, and so forth. If you're making an area rug to go beneath a dining table, make sure that you allow ample space for the chairs to be pulled out for seating while staying within the bounds of the area rug. Use your roll of brown paper to make a pattern in the size and shape of your finished rug and test your pattern in the actual space to be sure that it is a good fit.
Step 2: Cut the Rug
You probably already have a general idea of the size of the area rug but now you need to get more specific. Measure the space where the rug will go and account for potential problems, such as swinging doors, large pieces of furniture, built-in trim and woodwork, and so forth. If you're making an area rug to go beneath a dining table, make sure that you allow ample space for the chairs to be pulled out for seating while staying within the bounds of the area rug. Use your roll of brown paper to make a pattern in the size and shape of your finished rug and test your pattern in the actual space to be sure that it is a good fit.
Step 3: Finish the Carpet Edges
Now that you have the remnant cut as desired and you are totally happy with its shape and size, you can finish the edges of the carpet to keep the fibers from unraveling. Lay your rug face down once again on the work surface or cardboard and use the white glue or carpet glue to secure the edges. Run a border of glue completely around the perimeter of the carpet, coating the cut edge along the foam or backing fibers. Your glue border should be about a half-inch wide. Allow the glue to dry for twenty-four hours.Now set your stylish new area rug in place and enjoy!
Photo credit to russelljsmith.
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