How to Flatten the Edges of a Handmade Rug: A Simple Guide

Handmade rugs are beautiful pieces of art that bring warmth and character to any room. However, the edges of these rugs can sometimes curl or fold, making them look uneven and even creating potential tripping hazards. If you’ve noticed that the edges of your handmade rug aren’t lying flat, don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll go over some simple techniques to help you flatten the edges of your rug and restore it to its former glory.

Why Do Rug Edges Curl?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a quick look at why rug edges curl in the first place. There are a few common reasons:
  • Natural wear and tear: Handmade rugs, especially those made from natural fibers like wool or silk, can experience changes in shape over time as they age and soften.
  • Humidity changes: Rugs absorb moisture from the air. When the humidity is high, rugs can swell, causing edges to curl. When the air dries out, the rug shrinks back, but the edges might not return to their original position.
  • Improper storage: If a rug is rolled up tightly or folded for storage, the edges can retain the memory of that shape, leading to curling when it’s unrolled.
  • Heavy foot traffic: Walking over the edges repeatedly or placing furniture near the edges can cause them to bend or fold.
Now that we know what causes curling, let’s move on to the different ways to flatten your rug’s edges.

Method 1: Reverse Rolling

In our opinion, the best and simplest way to flatten the edges of your rug is to reverse roll it. Here’s how you can do it:
  1. Roll it up: Start by rolling the rug tightly, but this time in the opposite direction of the curl. For example, if the edge curls upward, roll it with the curl facing downward.
  2. Let it sit: Once the rug is rolled up, leave it in this position for a few hours or even overnight. This gives the rug fibers time to readjust.
  3. Unroll and check: After the waiting period, unroll the rug and check the edges. In most cases, they should lie flatter. If necessary, repeat the process a couple of times for stubborn curls.

Method 2: Use Weight

Another effective way to flatten the edges is by using weight to press them down. Here’s how you can do it:
  1. Lay the rug flat: Place the rug on a hard, flat surface. Make sure it is free from wrinkles or other folds.
  2. Apply weight: Place heavy objects, such as books, furniture, or even weights, on the curled edges. Ensure the weight is evenly distributed across the edge so that it flattens uniformly.
  3. Leave it for a while: Allow the weights to sit on the rug for 24 to 48 hours. This should help press down the edges and keep them flat.
  4. Check the progress: After removing the weight, check the edges to see if they are now lying flat. If necessary, repeat the process.

Method 3: The Damp Towel Trick

For more stubborn curls, moisture can help relax the fibers and encourage the edges to flatten. This method is great for wool and cotton rugs, but avoid using too much moisture on silk rugs or other delicate materials. Here’s what to do:
  1. Dampen a towel: Get a clean towel and dampen it with warm water. The towel should be moist but not dripping wet.
  2. Place the towel over the edge: Lay the damp towel over the curled edge of the rug.
  3. Apply heat (optional): If the curl is particularly stubborn, you can use an iron on a low heat setting (without steam) to gently press over the towel. Make sure the towel is thick enough to prevent direct heat from touching the rug.
  4. Let it dry: After applying the towel and optional heat, allow the rug to air dry. As it dries, the fibers should relax, and the edge should flatten out.
  5. Repeat if needed: If the edges are still curled, you can repeat the process, ensuring you don’t over-saturate the rug.

Method 4: Rug Tape or Rug Pads

Sometimes, the best way to prevent the edges from curling up again is to keep the rug securely in place. Rug tapes and pads are excellent solutions for this:
  1. Rug tape: Double-sided rug tape can be applied to the underside of the rug along the edges. The tape will stick the rug to the floor, preventing it from curling.
  2. Rug pad: A rug pad not only provides extra cushioning but also helps keep the rug in place. Make sure to choose a rug pad that fits your rug’s size and is appropriate for your floor type. This will also help prevent further curling.

Method 5: Professional Help

If none of the above methods work, or if you’re dealing with a very valuable or delicate rug, it’s best to seek professional assistance. A rug specialist or professional cleaner can steam or block your rug, ensuring that the edges lie flat without causing any damage to the fibers.

Preventing Future Curling

Once you’ve successfully flattened the edges of your rug, here are a few tips to prevent future curling:
  • Use a rug pad: As mentioned earlier, rug pads are a great way to prevent movement and curling. They also protect the rug from uneven wear.
  • Rotate your rug: Every few months, rotate your rug to ensure that it wears evenly on all sides, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Conclusion

Flattening the edges of a handmade rug is a straightforward task that can be done at home with simple methods like reverse rolling, using weight, or dampening the edges. By taking good care of your rug and addressing any curling early, you can ensure that it remains a beautiful, flat centerpiece in your home for years to come. If you ever need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a rug expert for help.
Feel free to contact us at Tabrizi Rugs if you have any more questions about rug care or if you need assistance with your handmade rug!