How to Hang Your Area Rug on the Wall: Transforming Rugs into Artwork

Are you looking to display your beautiful area rug on your wall instead of laying it on the floor? Whether it’s a cherished heirloom piece, a special rug from your travels, or simply a rug that you believe would make a stunning wall hanging, there are numerous reasons why you may choose to elevate your rug into a piece of artwork. In this guide, we will explore the different methods of hanging area rugs on walls, providing you with the necessary steps and tips to do so effectively.

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Why Hang Your Area Rug on the Wall?

Before we delve into the specific methods of hanging rugs on walls, let’s first understand the reasons why you may opt for this unique display choice:

Preserve the rug: By hanging your area rug on the wall, you can protect it from wear and tear that may occur when it is placed on the floor.
Showcase its beauty: Displaying your rug on the wall allows you to highlight its intricate designs, vibrant colors, and unique patterns as a striking piece of art.
Save space: Hanging your rug frees up floor space, making it ideal for smaller rooms or areas where a rug on the floor may be cumbersome.
Personal preference: Ultimately, hanging a rug on the wall is a creative way to add visual interest and personality to your space.

Now, let’s explore the two common methods of hanging area rugs on walls:

Method 1: Velcro

Using Velcro to hang your area rug on the wall is a preferred method by many museums and art galleries due to its effectiveness and ability to prevent damage to the rug. Here are the steps to hang your rug using Velcro:

Attaching to the Rug:

Sew the loop tape (the softer, fuzzy part of the Velcro) along the top edge of your area rug. If your rug is valuable, consider using a strip of muslin or canvas to prevent damage.
Stitch the muslin strip with the loop tape to the back of the rug using a whip stitch for handmade rugs.
Hide the stitching by using a cotton thread that matches the rug’s color.

Attaching to the Wall:

Staple the hook tape (the rough part of the Velcro) to a straight piece of wood that matches the rug’s width.
Mount the wood on the wall and connect the Velcro strips to hang the rug.
For large and heavy rugs, repeat the process using multiple strips of wood stacked vertically for additional support.

Method 2: Curtain Rod

Another method to hang an area rug on the wall is by using a curtain rod. This method provides a decorative touch and can be suitable for rugs of various sizes. Here’s how to hang your rug using a curtain rod:

Attaching to the Rug:

Sew a heavy cotton casing to the back of the rug to form a tube for the curtain rod.
Insert the curtain rod through the casing close to the top of the rug.
If the rug is valuable, attach a piece of muslin under the casing to prevent direct contact with the rod.

Attaching to the Wall:

Mount the curtain rod on appropriate brackets on the wall, ensuring it is sturdy enough to support the rug’s weight.
For a decorative touch, extend the rod beyond the rug’s edges and add ornamental finials.

Important Tips for Hanging Your Area Rug on the Wall

Regardless of the method you choose to hang your rug on the wall, consider the following tips to ensure a successful and visually pleasing display:

Fringe: Decide whether to display the rug’s fringe or tuck it behind the rug based on your preference for aesthetics.
Warning: Never hang rugs directly above or near heat sources, as this can damage the fibers. Avoid hanging rugs by nailing or pinning them to the wall, as this can cause irreparable damage.

In conclusion, transforming your area rug into a piece of artwork by hanging it on the wall can add a unique and stylish element to your living space. Whether you choose the Velcro method for a secure attachment or opt for a decorative curtain rod display, properly hanging your rug can enhance its beauty and preserve its quality for years to come. Enjoy showcasing your rugs as stunning wall artwork!