How to Repair Braided Rugs
Braided or rag rugs add quaint décor to rustic homes. The problem with braided rugs is that the threads connecting the braids do work loose from time to time. The old adage is definitely true when it comes to braided rugs: "A stitch in time saves nine." Fix a braided rug as soon as you see gaps or else you will have a rope instead of a rug.
Instructions
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1
Measure the length of the separation between the braids using the measuring tape. Cut a piece of thread that is three times that length.
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2
Put one end of the thread through the eye of the needle. Pull the thread through and match up the ends so the thread is doubled.
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3
Gather the two ends of the thread together. Wrap both threads around your first finger. Use your thumb to push the threads off your first finger, making a knot in the thread. Pull the knot tight.
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4
Turn the braided rug over onto its front so you can work on the back.
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5
Start at one end of the separation and insert the needle into one of the braids. Insert the needle into the other braid about half way through the braid. Pull the needle and the thread all the way through making sure to pull the stitch tightly. Do not go all the way through to the top surface of the braid to keep your stitches hidden.
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6
Insert the needle into the second braid and then into the first braid. Pull the thread tightly to make another stitch.
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7
Keep working this way, back and forth, until you stitch the braids together all the way across the separation.
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8
Put the needle into a few threads of the braid. Pull the needle up, but do not pull the thread all the way through, to make a loop in the thread. Insert the needle through the loop in the thread and then pull the thread tightly.
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9
Repeat Step 8 to form a second knot and finish the repair job on your braided rug.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure to use the clear plastic, heavy-duty thread that is specifically for rugs. This type of thread is much stronger than regular thread and stands up better to rough use.
You can also repair damage to the braids in the rugs. Simply unbraid the damaged part. Braid in a new strip of fabric and sew the braids together as listed above.
