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Think Vertically: A Step-by-Step Guide to Hanging a Rug as Wall Art
01 Aug 2025
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When we think about decorating our walls, our minds typically jump to paintings, prints, or photographs. But what if one of the most impactful, texture-rich, and unique pieces of wall art was already under your feet? Hanging a rug on the wall is a time-honored tradition that is making a major comeback in modern interior design, and for good reason. It’s a bold move that can introduce color, pattern, and a soft, sound-absorbing quality that no canvas can match.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to transform a beautiful area rug from a floor covering into a stunning vertical masterpiece.

Why Hang a Rug? The Art of Vertical Textiles

Before we get to the "how," let's talk about the "why." Hanging a rug on the wall offers several unique benefits:

  • Unmatched Texture: A rug introduces a level of texture and depth that framed art simply can't replicate. It adds a cozy, tactile element that can soften a room's acoustics and make it feel more inviting.

  • Scale and Impact: Rugs, especially larger ones, can cover a significant amount of wall space, creating a dramatic focal point that instantly draws the eye. They are a perfect solution for large, blank walls that are difficult to fill.

  • A World of Design: The design possibilities are endless. From vintage Moroccan carpets to modern geometric designs, there is a rug to match every conceivable style.

  • Preservation: Hanging a beautiful or delicate rug protects it from the wear and tear of foot traffic, preserving its beauty for years to come.

 

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Choosing the Right Rug for Your Wall

Not every rug is destined for the wall, but many are. The key is to think of it as you would any other piece of art.

  • Weight Matters: A very heavy, thick-pile rug can be challenging to hang securely. Lighter-weight options like flatweaves, kilims, or dhurries are ideal candidates.

  • Consider the Size: The rug should be proportional to the wall and the furniture around it. For a statement piece above a queen-sized bed or a standard sofa, 5x7 area rugs are often a perfect fit. They are large enough to have a significant presence without overwhelming the space.

  • Shape Up: Don't limit yourself to rectangles. Round area rugs can create a stunning, unconventional focal point, especially on a square wall or in a space with modern, clean lines. The soft curves provide a beautiful contrast to the hard angles of a room.

  • Color Your World: Use the rug to introduce or amplify your room's color scheme. For a touch of nature and tranquility, a green area rug can be a breathtaking choice, bringing organic color and life to your walls.

The Step-by-Step Hanging Guide

Hanging a rug securely is crucial. While there are several methods, using a wooden batten or slat is one of the most reliable and straightforward for most rugs.

What You'll Need:

  • A flat wooden slat (like a 1x3 board), cut slightly shorter than the width of your rug.

  • A drill

  • Screws and wall anchors appropriate for your wall type (drywall, plaster, brick)

  • A level

  • A measuring tape

  • Heavy-duty Velcro strips OR a staple gun with staples

Step 1: Prepare the Rug (Velcro Method)

This is the least invasive method for the rug itself.

  1. Adhere the "hook" (rough) side of the heavy-duty Velcro strip along the length of your wooden slat.

  2. Adhere the "loop" (soft) side of the Velcro strip across the top back of your rug. Press firmly to ensure a strong bond. For extra security on heavier rugs, you can add a few simple stitches by hand to secure the Velcro strip to the rug's backing.

Step 1: Prepare the Rug (Casing/Sleeve Method - More Secure)

  1. Cut a piece of sturdy fabric (like cotton canvas or denim) that is about 5 inches wide and the same length as your wooden slat.

  2. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and sew the long edge to create a sleeve.

  3. Hand-sew this sleeve securely to the top back of your rug, just below the fringe or finished edge. This will create a channel to slide the wood slat through.

Step 2: Mount the Slat to the Wall

  1. Decide where you want to hang your rug. Use your measuring tape and level to mark a perfectly straight line on the wall where the top of the rug will be.

  2. Hold your wooden slat against the wall, aligned with your marks.

  3. Drill pilot holes through the slat and into the wall.

  4. Insert your wall anchors into the wall, then securely screw the wooden slat into place.

Step 3: Hang Your Masterpiece

  • For the Velcro Method: Carefully lift the rug and press the Velcro strip on the rug against the corresponding strip on the wall-mounted slat. Work from one end to the other, ensuring a secure connection along the entire width.

  • For the Casing Method: Simply slide the wooden slat on the wall through the fabric sleeve you sewed onto the back of the rug. The rug will hang neatly from this hidden support.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Decor

Hanging an area rug is a transformative design choice that brings unparalleled texture, color, and personality to your walls. Whether you choose a classic rectangular 5x7 area rug, a playful round area rug, or a calming green area rug, by following these simple steps, you can confidently and securely display your chosen textile, turning it from a simple floor covering into a true work of art.