How To Use Rugs As Wall Art

Who says rugs are just for floors? These days, more and more homeowners are flipping the script and using rugs as stunning statement pieces on the wall – and honestly, we’re all for it. Whether you’ve got a bold patterned rug you don’t want anyone stepping on, or you’re simply looking for a creative way to fill a blank wall, hanging a rug as wall art is a brilliant way to add texture, colour, and a real touch of personality to your space.

Here’s everything you need to know about turning your rug into a head-turning piece of art – no hammer and chisel required.

Why Hang a Rug on the Wall?

First things first – why would you want to hang a rug rather than lay it under the coffee table? Well, for starters, rugs often feature intricate designs, rich colours, and hand-crafted details that deserve to be shown off, not always stood on.

Using a rug as wall art can:

• Add warmth and texture to plain walls
• Help absorb sound in echo-prone rooms
• Showcase vintage or heirloom rugs that are too delicate for floors
• Create a bold focal point without reaching for the paintbrush

It’s a clever way to get more out of a beautiful piece and bring something a bit unexpected into your décor.

What Kind of Rugs Work Best on Walls?

Not all rugs are made equal when it comes to wall hanging. You’ll want something lightweight enough to hang securely, but substantial enough to look intentional – not like you’ve just slung a bathmat on a nail.

Here are some top picks:

• Flatweave rugs – Think kilims, dhurries or woven cotton rugs. They’re light, flexible, and easy to hang.
• Vintage or handmade rugs – Older rugs often feature detailed patterns and lovely aged colours. Great for a traditional or boho look.
• Modern patterned rugs – Geometric, abstract or colourful contemporary rugs can work as a standout statement piece.
• Round or irregular-shaped rugs – These can make for quirky, unexpected wall features, especially in kids’ rooms or creative spaces.

If you love a specific rug you’ve seen in-store but aren’t sure if it’ll work on the wall, bring it into your local Frank’s store and have a chat with our team.

Best Places to Use Rugs as Wall Art

There’s loads of flexibility here. A few popular spots include:

• Above the sofa – A rug can fill the space and act like a giant piece of artwork.
• In the bedroom – Behind the headboard or above the bed, rugs can create a soft, inviting feel.
• In a hallway – Break up long, narrow walls with a vertically-hung runner.
• In stairwells – Rugs bring warmth to staircases and landings that can often feel a bit cold or forgotten.
• Home offices – Add texture and colour to your Zoom backdrop or brighten up a blank work wall.

Basically, anywhere you’d hang a large canvas or tapestry, a rug could do the job just as well – and might look even better.

How to Hang Rugs on the Wall (Without Ruining It)

You’ve picked your rug and chosen your wall – now you need to get it up there safely. Here are a few tried-and-tested methods:

1. Velcro Strips

This is a gentle, secure method that works well for lighter rugs. Sew one side of the Velcro to the back of the rug and attach the other side to a wooden slat or the wall directly. Just make sure everything’s level before you press it on.

2. Rug Rod or Curtain Rod

Slip the rug over a rod, just like a curtain, and mount the rod brackets onto the wall. It’s tidy, secure, and easy to swap out rugs in future if you feel like a change.

3. Sleeve or Casing

Sew a fabric sleeve onto the back of the rug and slide a dowel or rod through it. This helps distribute weight evenly and prevents the rug from sagging or puckering over time.

4. Clips or Clamps

For a more industrial look (or for rugs you don’t want to sew into), use decorative clamps or clips mounted on a bar. Just make sure they’re padded so you don’t damage the fabric.

If you’re hanging something valuable or delicate, it’s worth getting advice from a framing or textile specialist – especially for antique or handmade pieces.

Style Tips to Pull It All Together

• Keep the rest of the décor simple so your rug gets the attention it deserves.
• If your rug’s bold, let it be the star. Complement it with neutral furniture and accessories.
• Want a more layered look? Add a gallery wall around it with smaller frames in similar tones or themes.
• For extra impact, add picture lights or subtle uplighting to bring out the texture and colours in the evening.

Wall Rugs: A Brilliant, Budget-Friendly Room Upgrade

One of the best things about this idea? It’s a great way to refresh your home without redoing the floors or spending a lot of money if you’re on a budget. You get all the style points of a big feature wall, plus the warmth and charm of a handmade textile.

And if you’re thinking, “I don’t even own a rug that pretty,” don’t worry. Pop into your nearest Frank’s store and have a look at what we’ve got in store.