How to Hang a Rug on the Wall – Transform Your Space with Textile Art

Rugs aren’t just for floors. In fact, one of the most creative, visually striking ways to display your favorite textile is to turn it into wall art. If you've been wondering how to hang a rug on the wall, you're in the right place.

Whether it’s a vintage Persian piece, a vibrant alphabet rug, a rustic western rug, or a stunning modern design from JONATHAN Y, rugs add warmth, texture, and personality when mounted as tapestries. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through why wall-hung rugs are trending, how to choose the right rug, and five foolproof methods to hang them securely—without damaging your walls or the rug.

Why Hang a Rug on the Wall?

There are many reasons to take your rug vertical:

1. Decorative Impact

Rugs offer pattern, texture, and color that rivals any artwork.
Large rugs can act as a focal point in rooms with high ceilings or blank walls.

2. Preservation

Vintage or delicate rugs are better protected from wear when hung on the wall.
Keeps them clean and reduces foot traffic damage.

3. Sound Insulation

Soft materials like wool or cotton help absorb sound, especially in large or echo-prone rooms.

4. Unique Style

Turns a utilitarian item into bohemian, rustic, or modern wall decor.
Adds a cozy, artistic vibe to living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and hallways.

Best Rugs for Wall Hanging

Not all rugs are ideal for vertical display. Choose one that is:

Flat or low-pile (easier to mount and lighter in weight)
Symmetrical or has a clear top-to-bottom orientation
Lightweight (especially for adhesive or Velcro methods)

Great Wall-Hanging Rug Types from JONATHAN Y:

Rug Style	Why It Works on Walls
Alphabet Rug	Playful, educational for kids' rooms
Western Rug	Bold tribal patterns, rustic textures
Modern Rug	Minimalist lines and abstract forms
Boho Rug	Fringe, mandalas, and warm tones
Natural Fiber Rugs	Earthy feel, perfect for Japandi or eco décor

Tools & Materials You Might Need

Before diving into methods, gather these materials:

Curtain rods or wooden dowels
Velcro strips or rug hanging clips
Heavy-duty push pins or nails
Hanging sleeves (you can sew or attach)
Measuring tape and level
Hammer or drill (depending on method)

5 Best Methods to Hang a Rug on the Wall

1. Hanging with a Curtain Rod or Wooden Dowel (Most Stylish & Reversible)

This is the most popular and elegant method, suitable for living rooms or above beds.

Steps:

Sew a Sleeve onto the back of the rug (or use rug tape to create a pocket).
Insert a wooden dowel or decorative rod through the sleeve.
Mount the rod onto brackets on the wall.
Let the rug hang evenly—use a level to align.

✅ Pros: Even weight distribution, elegant, removable
❌ Cons: Requires a sleeve or light sewing

Want a rustic look? Use leather straps or iron rods for your western rugs.

2. Using Velcro Strips (No-Sew & Wall-Safe Option)

Ideal for lightweight rugs like alphabet rugs or small boho designs.

Steps:

Use industrial-strength Velcro strips—one side on the rug, one on the wall.
Apply the adhesive to clean surfaces.
Press and hold for 30 seconds.

✅ Pros: No wall damage, removable, invisible hardware
❌ Cons: Not suitable for heavy rugs

3. Hanging with Rug Clips or Clamps

Perfect for showcasing a vintage or collectible rug without modifying it.

Steps:

Purchase rug clamps or quilt clips.
Attach evenly along the top edge (about 4–5 inches apart).
Hang clips on hooks or nails in the wall.

✅ Pros: No sewing or adhesives, no rug damage
❌ Cons: Visible hardware

Pro Tip: Use matte black clips for a modern touch or bronze for a rustic look.

4. Tacking with Push Pins or Nails (Budget DIY Option)

Best for casual or temporary setups.

Steps:

Use decorative push pins along the top edge or all sides.
Space them evenly (about 6–10 inches apart).
Gently push or hammer into the wall.

✅ Pros: Fast, inexpensive, flexible layout
❌ Cons: May leave small holes in rug or wall

Great for kids’ playrooms, dorms, or seasonal decor using washable rugs.

5. Framing the Rug (For Art-Level Display)

Perfect for heirloom rugs or small, detailed pieces.

Steps:

Use a professional framer or shadowbox for smaller rugs.
Mount on acid-free backing board.
Add glass protection if needed.

✅ Pros: Museum-quality presentation, protects the rug
❌ Cons: Expensive, permanent

Where to Hang a Rug on the Wall

Rug art works in almost every room. Here are some ideas:

Living Room

Hang a large 9’ x 6’ western rug behind the sofa.
Acts as a conversation piece and softens the space.

Bedroom

Replace a headboard with a decorative boho or tribal rug.
Hang just above the bed frame to create a cozy focal point.

Kids’ Room

Use an alphabet rug or playful pattern behind the reading nook.
Softens sound and enhances early learning.

Hallway

Vertical rugs can visually elongate narrow spaces.
Use runners or long rectangular rugs.

Home Office

Hang a modern rug behind your desk to inspire focus and creativity.
Use color and pattern to define your personal workspace.

Pair Wall Rugs with Floor Rugs

Hanging a rug doesn’t mean you can’t use one underfoot too! Try pairing:

A brown color rug on the floor for grounding warmth
A blue rug carpet on the wall for cool contrast
A natural fiber rug layered with a hanging textile for rich texture

Find your ideal combination in our full Rug Collection – JONATHAN Y

Rug Hanging Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Hanging heavy rugs without anchors – Always use wall-safe hardware for support.
❌ Skipping alignment – Use a level to prevent sagging or slanting.
❌ Covering air vents or outlets – Check wall utility locations first.
❌ Ignoring wall color contrast – Choose a rug that pops, not blends in too much.

Bonus Tip: Add Lighting to Highlight Your Wall Rug

Enhance your wall-hung rug with strategic lighting:

Use pendant lights or adjustable sconces to cast soft shadows.
Add table lamps near the base for ambiance and focus.

Shop: Pendant Lighting | Table Lamps – JONATHAN Y

Care Tips for Hanging Rugs

Even on walls, rugs need a little TLC:

Dust monthly using a vacuum with brush attachment
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading
Rotate seasonally to reduce stress on one side
Inspect hooks, strips, and mounts for signs of loosening

For washable rugs, take them down and clean every few months. Learn how: Can You Wash Rugs in the Washing Machine – JONATHAN Y

Shop Wall-Worthy Rugs at JONATHAN Y

Looking for a rug to take from floor to feature wall? At JONATHAN Y, we offer:

Lightweight flatweave rugs
Boho-inspired designs perfect for hanging
Bold Western and Alphabet styles
Eco-friendly natural fiber pieces
Sizes from small tapestries to oversized area rugs

Explore all styles now at jonathany.com and reimagine your walls with the softness of textile art.

Final Thoughts: Turn Rugs Into Statements

Now that you know how to hang a rug on the wall, it’s time to get creative. Whether you’re adding color to a minimalist space or infusing warmth into a rustic room, a wall-hung rug is the perfect design twist.

So unroll that beauty, choose your method, and elevate your décor—one stitch at a time.

Shop stunning, wall-worthy rugs now at JONATHAN Y.