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How to Paint an Area Rug

Painting an area rug for a porch or outdoor space is an easy way to create a custom design without spending a lot of money. You can purchase basic indoor/outdoor area rugs very inexpensively at home improvement stores or bargain warehouses. With a little bit of time and paint, these boring, plain rugs can be given a stylish new look that will fit in well with your home décor.

Things You'll Need

  • All-weather area rug
  • Masking tape
  • Old newspapers or rags
  • Paint
  • Paint conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select an indoor/outdoor area rug that you want to makeover. Neutral, solid-colored rugs are the best choice.

    • 2

      Choose a paint color for the border or design that you want to paint on the rug. Make sure the color complements the color of the rug you're painting.

    • 3

      Use masking tape to create a design for your rug. Choose a tape width that matches the design you want to create.

    • 4

      Protect the ground or flooring while painting an area rug by placing old rags or newspapers under the edges of the carpet that you're painting.

    • 5

      Mix two parts paint with one part paint conditioner in a tray. This will slow down the drying time and make it easier for the paint to absorb into the carpet fibers.

    • 6

      Use a small roller or paintbrush to apply the paint to the area rug, using the masking tape as a guide.

    • 7

      Let the paint dry fully, and remove the masking tape to reveal your newly painted area rug.