How to Hang an Oriental Rug

Heavy Oriental Rugs

• 1

  Measure the width of your rug with a tape measure and allow for a 1-inch-diameter hanging bar in metal or wood at least 2 inches wider on either side. Draw a pencil line on the wall at the required height, using a ruler and spirit level.

• 2

  Match a drill bit to the size of bracket screws, and mount four bar brackets on the wall along the pencil line, one at each end and two spaced equidistant between them.

• 3

  Attach three lengths of 3-inch-wide rug tape, or casing, parallel to the top back width of the rug. Use heavy cotton thread on a darning needle, and a thimble to protect your fingers. Sew one on either side and one directly between them. Sew each side of the tape to the loom threads rather than to the decorative design, and make the pocket loose enough to accommodate the hanging pole.

• 4

  Slide the mounting bar through the three tape pockets and lift the bar and rug up onto the wall. Secure the bar against the brackets according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Small or Light Rugs

• 5

  Measure the width of the rug as for the heavier rug, and mount an appropriately-sized bar on the wall. Smaller or lighter rugs do not need extra support--one bracket at each end and a 1/2-inch-diameter bar are sufficient.

• 6

  Sew one length of rug tape along the back top edge of the rug. Catch the threads of the warp and weft along each side of the tape.

• 7

  Slide the mounting bar through the pocket and lift the rug and bar onto the brackets. Secure the bar according to the manufacturer's instructions.