Hanging a Rug on the Wall is the Unexpected Design Idea You Need to Try

Ashley Knierim | Updated on July 25, 2022

Image credit: FollowTheFlow / Getty Images

A really well-made rug can be just as beautiful as a piece of fine art. From Turkish to kilim to woven, sometimes a rug just requires more of a spotlight than the floor provides. If you have a rug that’s too beautiful to walk on, turning it into a piece of art can be a great alternative. Not only does hanging a rug cover up empty wall space, but it can also provide added insulation and even help dampen sound from the outside.

If you want to turn that rug into wall art, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to protect both your rug and your wall. The good news is that hanging a rug on the wall can be done in a couple of hours or less with the right tools.

Here are two ways to hang your rug on the wall to give it the center stage moment it deserves.

How to Hang a Rug Using PVC Pipe

While this may not be the easiest method, the final product looks incredibly professional. Before you start, gather your materials and find a flat space to lay the rug out while working.

Materials You’ll Need

• Twine
• PVC pipe (¾-inch diameter recommended)
• Saw
• Drill
• Nails
• Washers (optional, for securing twine)
• Wall anchors (for heavy rugs)

1. Cut the PVC to Size Measure your rug’s width, then cut the PVC pipe about 1 inch shorter than this length. This ensures the pipe supports the rug without being visible on the wall.
2. Prepare Twine Pieces Cut 2–3 pieces of twine (double the PVC length). For heavy rugs, use more twine. String all pieces through the PVC pipe. Opt for jute twine (sturdy) or cotton twine (cleaner look).
3. Fold the Rug Over the Pipe Fold the rug’s top edge over the PVC pipe so both sides drape evenly. This method works best for rugs with repeated patterns (one side will rest against the wall).
4. Secure the Twine Tie the loose ends of the twine together to form closed loops through the pipe. Tuck the tied ends inside the pipe—washers can help weigh them down and hide them.
5. Hang the Rug Hammer a nail (or use a screw + anchor for heavy rugs) into the wall, then hang the rug from the twine loops.

How to Hang a Rug Using Carpet Tacks

Another incredibly easy way to turn your rug into art is using carpet tack strips. These are small wooden strips with nails (found at hardware stores) traditionally used for floor carpeting.

Materials You’ll Need

• Carpet tacks
• Upholstery nails
• Carpet Tack Strip
• Halex Carpet Tack Strip ($3.00)
• Clear poly finish
• Painter’s tape (for visualization)
• Wall anchors (for heavy rugs)

1. Cut Strips to Rug Width Cut the carpet tack strips to match your rug’s width (unlike the PVC method, strips should be full length to prevent sagging). Use multiple strips if your rug is wide.
2. Protect the Rug Apply a sheer coat of clear poly finish to all strips. This prevents wood acid from discoloring the rug fabric over time.
3. Mark and Hang the Strips Use painter’s tape to visualize the rug’s placement. Line up the strips where the rug’s top edge will sit, then hammer nails (or use screws + anchors) to secure them to the wall. Ensure strips are level.
4. Attach the Rug Hammer upholstery nails through the rug’s top edge into the tack strips. Start with the corners and add a nail in the middle for stability. For a casual look, hammer corners 1 inch from the end to let edges hang slightly downward.

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