How to Hang a Rug on the Wall

Using A Curtain Rod to hang your rug on a wall

The curtain rod method is a classic way to display a rug. This is a simple way to hang medium to large sized rugs, but there is one area to be cautious of: the quality of your curtain rod. If you are displaying a large rug, be sure to properly anchor your curtain rods and choose a sturdy rod that will not bend in the middle. Aside from that danger, this is an easy way to display a rug and have it accessible for easy cleaning.

Create Rod Casing

• On the back of your rug, sew a heavy cotton casing to form a tube that the curtain rod can be run through. This fabric tube should be attached close to the top of the rug and should be hand-sewn into the rug if you are working with an expensive or antique rug. 

Mount Curtain Rod

• Once the tubing is attached, you can mount your curtain rod according to factory instructions. If you are working with a heavy rug, consider how you can anchor your screws to create the most secure foundation. 

Feed the Rug

• After your mounting is set, you can run your curtain rod through the rug’s tube and hang it on the wall. 

Curtain Rod Accenting

• If you want your rod to be a part of the aesthetic, consider extending the rod several inches past the edges of the rug and cap them with ornamental finials. Alternatively, if you would like the rod to be hidden, choose a rod that is slightly shorter than the width of the rug and align the ends with the inside edges of the rug so the rod is invisible.

Using Rug Clips To Hang Your Rug On A Wall

Rug clips are also used with curtain rods, but they add visible clips to display the rug. This method is not for those who want unseen hanging methods, but it is for those who want to add style to their rug’s hangings. One downside of using clips is that as the rug’s weight shifts over time, the weight may become unevenly distributed and misshape the rug. When you see that happening, adjust the clips and the rug to better support the weight. Overall, these clips are widely available, look professional when applied correctly, and are extremely easy and quick to use. 

Apply Clips to Rug

• When you put your clips on the rug, spread them out evenly across the top and be sure that they are at a consistent height and distance across the entire length of the rug. 

Mount Curtain Rod

• Be sure that your curtain rod is mounted at your desired height and is properly anchored to hold the weight of the rug. 

Hang Rug

• Feed the rod through your clips and hang your rod like you would hang a curtain. Spread out across the space so the rug is flat and perfectly displayed.

Using PVC Pipe to hang a rug on a wall

Using a PVC pipe will act as a firm rod supporting the top of the rug. This method can be tailored to create a more homey aesthetic, as the PCV pipe will not be mounted to the wall at all. Instead, a thread or rope will run through the inside of the pvc pipe and be used to hang the rug on a nail or other singular point. Since PVC pipe is so affordable, easy to cut (with the proper tools) and is hidden from sight, this method is a great way to keep the focus on your rug as the main piece of decor. 

Prepare PVC Pipe

In terms of size, your pipe should be the width of the rug or slightly smaller so that it does not poke out under the sides of the rug. The thickness of your pipe can vary depending on how heavy your rug is; The heavier the rug, the thicker the pipe should be. A one inch pipe should be enough to hang a rug for medium to heavy rugs, but 3/4 inch diameter pipes also work for small to medium rugs. 

Preparing the Twine

• Cut twine that is roughly double the length of the PVC pipe. Use at least three pieces of twine or add more pieces to accommodate a heavier rug.

Prepare the Wall

• You will likely hang your rug from one central nail or screw. Be sure to place that mounting at your desired height with enough anchoring to ensure the mounting will not move or fall out of the wall.

Setting the Twine

• Feed all the twine through the PVC pipe. Knot them together tightly, and then feed it so that the knot is hidden inside the pipe. 

Hanging the Rug

• Drape your rug over the PVC pipe by folding it in half. Then, hook your twine over the nail and display your beautiful rug.

Using Rug Tacks to hang a rug on a wall

Rug tacks, also known as carpet tacks, are another common method of hanging rugs. Carpet tack sticks are available at hardware stores and are simply small pieces of wood with nails in them. They are traditionally used for placing carpet on the floor, but they can be mounted to the wall to hang a rug. Be aware that nails do not have the proper strength to hold a heavy rug and can damage it, but this method still is an option if you have an inexpensive rug. 

Preparing Carpet Tack Strips

• First, cut your carpet tack strips to size for the top side of your rug.Be sure they run all the way to the edges or else you may be faced with curling corners and sagging. Then, use a clear poly finish on your strips to ensure that the wood’s natural acids will not damage or discolor the rug’s fabric. 

Hanging Carpet Tack Strips

• Level your strips carefully and gently hammer them into the wall. If you are hanging a heavier rug, use screws and anchors to ensure your rug tacks will not falter once they are in the wall. 

Hanging the Rug

• Use upholstery nails to attach your rug to the rug tack strip. The easiest approach is to nail in the top two corners of the rug and then place one nail in the middle.