How to Cover a Box With Carpet

Carpet is very durable and versatile. It is easily applied to an array of surfaces including floors, walls and even boxes. Whether it is a wooden box or a cardboard box, the procedure for covering a box with carpet is straightforward and simple. If done correctly, you won't see any seams, and the covered box will give years of service. You just need the right tools and adhesive.

Tape measure
Pen
Paper
Chalk line
Marker
Gloves
Carpet
Utility knife
Straightedge
Small paint roller
Contact cement or spray adhesive
Rags or shop towels

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and width in inches of all sides of the box you want to cover. Write the measurements down on paper.
- 2
  Purchase the correct amount of carpet to cover your box. To determine how much carpet you will need, total your measurements, convert the inches into feet and then add 2 percent. You want some extra carpet in case you have calculated wrong or something happens during the cutting process.
- 3
  Turn the carpet over on its back side, and with your tape measure, mark your first set of measurements for one side of the box from the number you wrote down in step I. Mark both the length and width with a pen or marker.
- 4
  Use a chalk line to pop a straight line of the length and width of your first set of measurements so you can make your cuts.
- 5
  Cut the carpet by laying a straightedge down on the chalk line, and then start cutting along the straightedge with a utility knife. Cut the length measurement first, then the width. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- 6
  Place the cut piece of carpet on the corresponding side of the box. The carpet should be straight, flush and not overlapping the side of the box. If the carpet is hanging over a side, remove the piece from the box, and trim the excess using a straightedge and your utility knife. Work slowly to try and get an even cut.
- 7
  Apply contact cement to both the box and the back of the carpet if you are covering a box not made from cardboard. Use a small paint roller to roll it out evenly after squirting it from the tube.
  If you are covering a cardboard box, use a spray adhesive on both the box and back of the carpet. A contact cement is too heavy to use on a cardboard box.
- 8
  Align the piece of carpet so it is straight, and slowly place it on the box. Make any adjustments as needed and press down firmly. The carpet should be completely flush and straight on the box.
- 9
  Use a rag or shop towel to wipe up any excess glue from the side of the box. Let the bond dry for 5 to 10 minutes before moving on to the next side.
- 10
  Repeat Steps 3 to 10 for the other sides of the box. Make sure each side is flush and straight to the other sides of the box.

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