How To Make A Plush Rug By Hand With Handy Tools

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Author:

Taher Sabahi

My friend’s apartment has been feeling a bit too sterile lately. Then, he was browsing home decor magazines for inspiration when he stumbled upon this amazing picture of a living room with a plush rug or carpet. It looked like pure comfort.

He immediately texted me, Hey, how to make a plush rug by yourself? Because let’s be honest, some things are just better DIY. 

Yes, you can make a plush rug by myself. You need to follow just 6 easy steps:

  1. Measure and Cut the Fabric
  2. Prepare the Edges
  3. Sew the Edges
  4. Attach the Non-Slip Pad
  5. Add Additional Stitching
  6. Trim Excess Threads

Then, he texted me, please give me more information.

Why not? I will share all the steps and information you need.

How To Make A Plush Rug
Estimated cost Estimated time Skill level Tools and materials 
$165 to $2001-2 hours Beginner Materials Needed Plush fabric, Non-slip rug pad,Scissors, Measuring tape, latch hook tool, Pins, Fabric marker

How To Make A Plush Rug?

To make your plush rug, measure and cut your fabric into 1-2 inch wide strips. You should fold the edges over about 1 inch and pin them to create clean, and finished edges.

Now, you should set up your sewing machine with matching thread and sew along the pinned edges, removing the pins.

Can You Make A Plush Rug By Yourself

Yes, you can make a plush rug by yourself. I made one recently. It was surprisingly easy and fun. I chose the soft, cozy fabric and cut it into strips. Then, they tied them onto a rug base. Now, I have a beautiful, custom rug that adds a personal touch to my home.

What Materials Do I Need To Make A Plush Rug?

You need 10 handy materials to make a plush rug. You find these tools on craft stores. You need to gather all the materials to make your project easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

What Materials Do I Need To Make A Plush Rug
  1. Plush fabric (1.5-2 yards)
  2. Non-slip rug pad (same size as the plush fabric)
  3. Sewing machine
  4. Thread (matching color)
  5. Scissors
  6. Measuring tape
  7. Pins
  8. Fabric marker
  9. Rotary cutter (optional)
  10. Latch hook tool

Making A Plush Rug? (Step By Step)

Here are your easy 6 step by step guidelines to make a plush rug:

Making A Plush Rug

Step 1: Measure And Cut The Fabric

You need to measure and cut your plush fabric to the desired size.

“ To make a rug, cut the fabric into 1–2 inches wide strips. you must ensure each strip is wide enough to create a substantial piece of yarn”.

Measure And Cut The Fabric

Now, you need to use a measuring tape and mark the dimensions on the fabric with a fabric marker. Then, cut along the lines with scissors or a rotary cutter.

Always, Make sure to cut the rug pad to the same size.

cut the fabric into 1–2 inches wide strips

Step 2: Prepare The Edges

You need to fold the edges, after cutting.

You need to fold all edges over about 1 inch and pin them in place. This will create a clean, and finished edges”.

Prepare The Edges

Step 3: Sew The Edges

Now, you need to set up your sewing machine with matching thread.  The type and size of thread used for making a rug depends on the method employed:

Rug Hooking

“For rug hooking, worsted weight to bulky yarn that knits at 3.5-4 stitches per inch is ideal, provided it isn’t slippery”

Rug Hooking

Wool is preferred, though you can also use novelty yarns, acrylic yarn, sari silk, and metallic ribbon.

For rug hooking, worsted weight to bulky yarn that knits

Tufting

“You can use acrylic yarn made specifically for tufting or yarn balls from any store. Threads that work well with size 3 or 4 needles are commonly recommended”.

Tufting

Braiding

“Cotton lacing thread is used for braiding in small, medium, and large sizes. Small spools (190-200 yards) can create a braided rug up to 3′ x 5′. Medium spools (375-400 yards) are suitable for rugs up to 7′ x 9′. Large spools (750-800 yards) can make up to 9′ x 12′ rugs”.

Braiding

Now, sew along the pinned edges, and remove the pins. Use a straight stitch and make sure the folded edge is secure.

This step will take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of your rug”.

Braiding

Step 4: Attach The Non-Slip Pad

Once the edges are sewn, place the non-slip rug pad on the backside of the plush fabric. Pin the pad in place to keep it from shifting. Sew around the edges of the rug again, securing the pad to the fabric.

Attach The Non-Slip Pad

This step ensures your rug won’t slip when placed on the floor. You may choose your favorite wool yarns for sewing such as loose fibres, synthetic fibres or tangled fibres yarns. Always take a long lengths of  yarn.

Step 5: Add Additional Stitching

For extra durability, add a few rows of stitching across the width and length of the rug. You can use a straight stitch or get creative with patterns. 

Add Additional Stitching

“If your rows per inch is 4 and you need to knit 10 inches of fabric. Now, multiply these two together to get the total number of rows. For example, 4 rows per inch multiplied by 10 inches equals to 40 rows. Each row of stitching takes about 5 minutes”.

per inch is 4 and you need to knit 10 inches of fabric

Step 6: Trim Excess Threads

Finally, trim any excess threads and ensure all seams are secure. Give the rug a good shake to remove any loose threads or fabric pieces. Lay your new plush rug on the floor and enjoy.

Trim Excess Threads

The entire step should take 1-2 hours from start to finish”. 

Tips:

  1. Choose a high-quality plush fabric.
  2. If you have pets, consider using a darker fabric to hide fur.
  3. For larger rugs, you may need to piece together multiple sections of fabric. Sew the sections together before attaching the rug pad.

Plush rug are suitable for heavy foot traffic area. These are hides any loose dirt,loose debris and stains. It has a fluffy texture that is so soft and wonderful texture. Always follow the the cleaning recommendation to keep your plush shag rugs in good condition. It is not needed deep cleaning.

Always careful about spot cleaning of your plush rug. You can use steam cleaner for steam cleaning. 

Can I Make A Plush Rug Without A Sewing Machine?

Yes. You can create a plush rug without a sewing machine. You can use hot glue and velcro to make plush carpets.

It’s an alternative to sewing machines. You may try another method to make a rug without sewing by braiding fabric strips to form a braid-in rag rug. You can make many types of plush carpets and rug without a sewing machine by following these 4 steps:

  1. Measure And Cut Your Fabric
  2. Prepare The Edges
  3. Attach Velcro Strips
  4. Secure The Rug To The Floor

What Tools Do I Need To Make A Plush Rug By Hand? 

You’ll Need just 6 materials To Make A Plush Rug By Hand:

  1. Plush fabric (your choice of size)
  2. Non-slip rug pad
  3. Hot glue gun and glue sticks
  4. Velcro strips
  5. Scissors
  6. Measuring tape

How To Make Plush Rug Without A Sewing Machine Or, By Hand? 

– Do you want to make a plush rug without a sewing machine?

Sure, I’d be happy to share how to make a plush carpet without a sewing machine. Here’s how you can do it in just 4 simple steps:

Step 1: Measure And Cut Your Fabric

First, you need to decide the size of your rug. “For example, let’s make a 5×7 feet rug. Spread out your plush fabric. Use the measuring tape to mark 5 feet by 7 feet on the fabric”. Cut along the marks with scissors. Always make sure to add a little extra for the edges.

 Step 2: Prepare The Edges

Next, you need to stop the fabric from fraying. You need to use iron-on hem tape or Fabric glue around the edges. It helps to keep the edges neat and prevent them from unraveling.

Step 3: Attach Velcro Strips

You should cut Velcro strips to fit the edges of your fabric. Attach one side of the Velcro to the back of the fabric using strong adhesive or fabric glue. Make sure it’s secure.

Step 4: Secure The Rug To The Floor

You need to place the other side of the Velcro on the floor where you want the rug to stay. Press the rug down firmly onto the Velcro strips on the floor. This will keep your rug in place and prevent it from slipping. Now, you have a cozy, hand-made rug without a sewing machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type Of Fabric Is Best For A Plush Rug?

For a plush rug, wool is the best fabric because it’s soft and durable. 

Do I Need A Pattern To Make A Plush Rug?

No, you don’t need a pattern to make a plush rug.

Now It’s your Turn

Now you know, how to make a plush rug?

Well, after experiencing the process, I can confidently say absolutely. It’s surprisingly easy and satisfying.

Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.

About the author

Writen By

Taher Sabahi

Taher Sabahi is a certified flooring consultant with over 15 years of industry experience. He holds a master’s degree in Interior Design from the New York School of Interior Design. The Taher Sabahi has a deep passion for helping clients find the perfect floor coverings for their spaces.

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