How To Convert Waste Cloth Pieces Into Rugs Or Mats

Want a new rug for free? This step-by-step guide teaches you a simple, no-sew technique to turn old clothes into a beautiful braided rug.
How To Convert Waste Cloth Pieces Into Rugs Or Mats
How To Convert Waste Cloth Pieces Into Rugs Or Mats

Making a beautiful and functional rug or mat from old cloth is a great way to upcycle fabric and add a unique, handmade touch to your home decor. A simple and popular method that requires no sewing is the braided technique, which is perfect for beginners and yields a charming, rustic-style rug.

How To Convert Waste Cloth Pieces Into Rugs Or Mats

Want a new rug for free? This step-by-step guide teaches you a simple, no-sew technique to turn old clothes into a beautiful braided rug.

What You'll Need:

  • Old t-shirts, jeans, or any fabric scraps
  • Fabric scissors or a rotary cutter
  • A hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • A non-slip rug pad
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Step-by-Step Guide:

  • Start by cutting your old clothes into long, continuous strips of fabric. Aim for strips that are about 2-3 inches wide. You can connect shorter strips by tying them together in a small knot, which will be hidden in the braid.
  • For a uniform look, try to use a similar type of fabric, like old t-shirts, as they have a natural stretch that makes braiding easier.
  • Take three of your fabric strips and tie them together at one end. Begin braiding the strips just as you would braid hair. Keep the braid tight and consistent to ensure a sturdy rug.
Page 13 | Carpet Mat Images - Free Download on Freepik
  • Continue braiding until you run out of fabric strips. If you need to add more, simply tie on a new strip and continue braiding. Once you have a long, continuous braid, secure the end with a knot. Make several long braids of the same length to build your rug.
  • Take one of your long braids and start coiling it tightly into a flat spiral. Begin from the centre and work your way outward.
  • As you coil, use a hot glue gun to apply a small dot of glue every 2-3 inches to the side of the braid to secure it to the adjacent coil.
  • Continue coiling and securing the braid until you have formed the desired size and shape of your rug.
  • Once your rug is complete, trim off any loose threads or stray fabric. For extra grip and safety, you can attach a non-slip rug pad to the bottom of your rug using a strong adhesive.

Image credits: Freepik

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