Tools for Trimming Rugs

Scissors

• For simple trim work, use a pair of straight-edge scissors with long, sharp blades. General-purpose scissors allow you to make straight cuts through a variety of materials, including textiles and leather. Use scissors to cut off fringe or fraying edges, or for removing small sections of your rug.

Carpet Knife

• A carpet knife is a type of utility knife. Whereas standard utility knives have a flat, smooth blade, the carpet knife blade has a thicker cutting edge. This helps it break through thick material without fraying the rug or creating uneven edges. This knife has a round handle, usually made of metal or plastic-coated metal, and a retractable, replaceable blade. The blade is very sharp and is designed to cut through thick material in a straight line. Use this knife to remove large sections of a rug. You can also use it when splicing together two different rugs or replacing a section of your rug. Be careful when using this tool and don't put your other hand near the blade as you cut.

Shears

• Carpet shears works like scissors, except that the blade is generally thicker. Use this tool to make straight cuts across your carpet, but make sure to choose shears with an opening that can handle the thickness of your rug. You can also use shears for trimming off excess or worn rug sections. If you only need to trim fringe, buy a smaller shear.

Cutting Machine

• If you have a large rug and need to cut it up into different lengths, purchase or rent a carpet cutting machine. This handheld tool has a small blade at the front and a grip in the back. The blade looks similar to a circular saw but is generally not as large. On each side of the blade is a guide that helps make a straight cut. Use this tool on thick or very large rugs.