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A rug is one of the easiest ways to pull a room together. But what happens when your space simply doesn’t accommodate a regular-sized rug?
You could go the custom route. The problem? Having something created specifically for your space will cost you—big time. Or, you could settle for the closest size-match, but potentially wind up with a too-small rug that throws the whole room out of proportion. (Check out this handy guide to find the right size rug.)
So what’s a budget-conscious decorator to do? Luckily, there’s an easy trick to solve this dilemma: Combine two smaller rugs to create one big rug that more closely matches the custom size you need. Here’s how:
How to combine two straight-edge rugs
- Map out your project by laying the two rugs on the floor where you want them to go, lining up any pattern.
- Once you’re satisfied, apply single-sided carpet seam tape to the underside of one rug, leaving half of the tape exposed.
- Press the second rug atop the exposed piece of carpet seam tape, making sure to fully close the gap between the two rugs.
How to combine two rugs with irregular edges
- Just like with straight-edged rugs, start by laying the two rugs on the floor where you want them to go, making sure to line up any pattern. Use a ruler and a pencil to mark where your seam will go on both rugs.
- Cut along the seams you drew, creating two straight edges.
- Apply single-sided carpet seam tape to the underside of one rug, leaving half of the tape exposed.
- Press the second rug atop the exposed piece of carpet seam tape, making sure to fully close the gap between the two rugs.
Is it a perfect fix? No. Unless your rug has a high pile, you may still see the seam. And not all rugs have patterns that line up, so choose wisely before beginning this DIY project. But if you’re blessed with an easy-to-match pattern and don’t mind the seam, this easy, affordable fix is perfect when you simply can’t find a reasonably-priced rug to fit your space.
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