How Do You Frame A Rug?

Backing Alternatives

Before we dive deep into the questions related to framing, let’s discuss all the different backing alternatives available to use to finish a rug. The main and the most common way is to apply the non-slip backing fabric. This material looks clean and high quality and increases the rug’s durability. Because if you don’t cover the backside, over time, the yarn strips may start to come out even if you apply a good amount of glue. 

If you can not find non-slip fabric, you can use any fabric to cover the backside. Felt carpet backing is one of the other popular options. This is a thick and durable material, so it can also be a good option for you.

These materials are popular to use in the case of floor rugs. If you are not planning to use the rug as a floor rug, you may consider other materials, such as hardboard. For wall hanging rugs, depending on the shape, the edges can fold and fall down when you hang them on the wall. In order to prevent this from happening, applying and kind of rigid material on the back would help. 

You can also you the same hard cover for the tufted mirrors. It is even more critical to have a hard surface for the mirror to protect the mirror part from the back. Otherwise, it can easily break, or the corners can fold on it. 

The idea of using a frame as a backing material for the rugs is similar to hardboard but fancier. It can add a great touch to it.

Why Should You Frame A Rug?

Firstly, as a short answer; Why not? Because it immediately transforms a good piece into an incredible decoration object. It doesn’t require a lot of work, material, or time. All you need is either purchase a ready-to-use frame, or if you are more into it, you can DIY your own frame with the exact dimensions of your rug. 

Of course, purchasing a ready frame is way more straightforward, but you can not use all of your existing rugs in this case. Most probably, the dimensions won’t fit perfectly. That’s why I recommend purchasing the frame first and designing a piece specifically for that if you want to have a framed wall hanging. 

But if you decide to create the frame yourself, you have much more flexibility. You can even create a frame with a more organic, curved shape if your design requires that. The other materials won’t cost much if you have the necessary tools. 

Store-bought Frame

It can be found in many local places in various dimensions, colors, and materials. You can find many options in a furniture store like IKEA or anything in that category. There are many available different dimensions and shapes for various purposes. You have a high chance of finding the right fit for your design. 

You can check to find hundreds of available frame options online as well. Depending on the quality and the material, it is possible to find a frame approximately for zz$. You can check the current prices here.

DIY Frame

Suppose you cannot find the right frame for yourself; you can always try to create it. If you have the necessary hardware tools to cut and process the wooden pieces (assuming you want a wooden frame), other materials will not add a high cost. All you need is a larger piece for the backside and some elements around the edges, depending on your desired design. You can even get creative and use the existing, leftover piece from previous projects. 

The first step is to measure the dimensions of the frame. I recommend finishing the rug and measuring it when it is entirely ready. Because it would be harder to adjust even the minor differences. Afterward, cut all the necessary pieces before you assemble any of them. When all the parts are ready, you can first test with the rug placed in it first, and after a final check, you can assemble it. 

You can find a great tutorial about how to do DIY Frame here. 

How To Assemble It