How to Keep Carpet From Fraying
Frayed carpet or area rugs can ruin the look of an otherwise smart room by making it seem untidy. Fraying often occurs on carpet edges because this part of the carpet gets the most wear and tear. Never try to pull off the loose threads of a frayed carpet; this will cause the thread to unravel the carpet weave and make the problem worse. Binding tape or craft adhesive can stop carpet edges from fraying. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Clothespin
- Carpet shears
- Cloth
- PVA craft adhesive
- 2-inch paintbrush
- Binding tape
- Utility knife
Instructions
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Fold back the carpet or rug edge that you wish to protect from fraying. Clip the fold with a clothespin to keep the carpet in place.
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Cut any loose threads with carpet shears or a pair of sharp scissors. Keep the cut as straight as possible to prevent further fraying.
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3
Pour polyvinyl acetate (PVA) craft adhesive into an empty can or suitable container.
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Apply the adhesive carefully along the underside edge of the carpet or rug with the applicator that came with the adhesive. If no applicator is available, use a 2-inch paintbrush. Wait for the PVA to dry before removing the clothespin and folding back the carpet. Refer to the PVA packaging for specific drying times.
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Stick binding tape along the carpet or rug edge as an alternative to PVA glue. After folding back and clipping the carpet in place, unroll 3 inches of binding tape and stick it firmly to the edge of the carpet or rug. Continue to unroll the binding tape, sticking it down firmly to the underside of the carpet as you go. When you reach the far end, cut the tape away from its roll with a sharp utility knife.
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Tips & Warnings
Take care when using carpet shears or a utility knife. Cut in the direction away from your body.
