How to Bind a Carpet Runner

Use a self-adhesive binding tape. Self-adhesive binding tape combines a sticky tape and a fabric piping that can be adhered to the carpet runner. This technique for binding is best used on a runner cut from a carpet remnant. The tape adheres to the underside of the carpet. The piping, which is attached to the sticky tape, is attached to the edges of the runner using a bead of hot glue from a glue gun. Binding can be accomplished in a few hours.

Hand stitch around the edges of the carpet to create the binding. Use a carpet needle -- carpet needles are curved to make stitching easier -- and strong carpet thread. Start at the middle of one side and move in one direction throughout the binding process. Begin by inserting the needle from the underside of the carpet about 1/2 inch from the carpet's edge and pushing it through to the top. Pull the thread up until the knot stops the process and pull it around the edge of the carpet. Insert the needle again from the underside of the carpet right next to the previous entry point and continue sewing until all edges are wrapped in the binding.

Hand stitch a binding tape over the edges of the carpet runner. Similar to creating your own binding tape with thread, stitching binding tape to the carpet will require a carpet needle and carpet thread. Purchase a binding tape from the fabric store that is at least 1/2 inch in width. Fold the tape tightly over the edge of the carpet and stitch from the bottom up and then down as if you were imitating a sewing machine stitch.

Apply binding using a carpet binding machine. Carpet binding machines and carpet sergers are specialty sewing machines that provide the ability to handle thick pieces of carpet and the attachment of large spools of binding tape. These are the tools a professional carpet binder uses.

Use a regular sewing machine and stitch the binding into place. A lightweight, low-density carpet runner without a thick backing can be bound on a sewing machine. Use a carpet thread and a needle capable of handling thick layers of heavy fabric such as denim or upholstery material to get the best results. Fold the binding over the edge and stitch straight through the binding and carpet. Run a test sample first with the scrap carpet that matches the carpet runner.

Pay a professional to bind the runner. At the time of publication, professional binding cost about $1 a foot. A 2-by-6-foot runner cost about $16 to finish. However, you may have to wait a few days or longer to get your carpet runner back home. Professional carpet binders may have workloads that prevent them from completing your project overnight.