How to Repair Rug Edges

How to Repair Rug Edges
Written By
Truell Bliss
Truell Bliss
Published: Jun 21, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Allow additional time for repairs on frayed edges longer than 3 inches. Get busy with rug edge repairs and help your rug retain its original charm.

Things You Will Need

  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Scissors
  • Fabric pen
  • Painter's tape
  • Fabric glue
    Clean the rug thoroughly before making any repairs.
  1. Perform a thorough rug cleaning before attempting any repairs to the rug edges. Deep cleaning lifts loose and frayed fibers, making them easier to locate and repair.

  2. Use a pair of scissors to snip off threads.
  3. Scrutinize all edges of the rug and determine which edges need repair work. Use your scissors to snip off long threads. Cut them short without causing damage to adjacent fibers.

  4. Choose a fabric pen having the same color as the rug edge.
  5. Maintain color consistency and select a fabric pen having the same color dye as the rug edge. Repeated pressing of the pen point against the frayed edge will restore the color.

  6. Protect rug fibers from glue spray with painter's tape.
  7. Reduce the chance of fiber damage from glue spray. Use painter's tape to cover the areas adjacent to the repaired edge of the rug.

  8. Fabric glue spray bonds fibers together.
  9. Hold the fabric glue spray can in an upright position and lightly spray a coat of fabric glue over the repaired edge. The fabric glue will bond the rug fibers together and prevent fraying. Remove the painter’s tape after spraying. The rug can accept foot traffic again after the glue dries.

The Drip Cap

  • A rug adds grace and elegance to a room.
  • When rug edges fray and develop loose or stringy threads, you can prolong the life of the rug and repair the worn edge yourself.
  • Allow additional time for repairs on frayed edges longer than 3 inches.
  • Use painter's tape to cover the areas adjacent to the repaired edge of the rug.

Photo Credits

Carpet image by big from Fotolia.com

Carpet image by big from Fotolia.com

Sauberkeit image by Michael Homann from Fotolia.com

scissors image by Mitch DiMauro from Fotolia.com

Children's color felt-tip pens image by Igor A. Bondarenko from Fotolia.com

blue painters tape image by Jim Mills from Fotolia.com

spray image by Dragana Petrovic from Fotolia.com

Truell Bliss

Truell Bliss retired from the restaurant and hospitality industry after almost a lifetime of service. An officer in the American Culinary Federation, he earned his dietary manager certification and progressed into positions as chef…

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