Once you've finished tufting your rug, it often seems like the hardest part is over. In reality, the finishing touches are a separate step in their own right.
It is at this moment that the rug truly takes shape, that the design is precisely revealed, and that the whole thing gains in solidity.
Here is a presentation of the essential equipment to take care of this final phase and obtain a clean and professional result.
Why the finishing touches are important
Tufting is not just about pulling wool yarns through a canvas. It's also everything that comes after: leveling the surface , cleaning up the edges , and protecting the back of the rug .
These actions not only guarantee a clean finish, but also better durability.
A poorly finished rug can quickly become damaged, lose threads or warp after gluing.
Conversely, a well-made rug retains its shape and shine, even after years of use.
Essential tools for finishing work
1. The lawnmower
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This is the most commonly used tool. It is used to even out the surface of the rug , cut any stray fibers, and sculpt the patterns.
Take the time to mow slowly, on a flat and well-lit surface to avoid irregularities.
2. The tufting brush
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The tufting brush helps to straighten the fibers and remove wool residue before and after shearing. Brushing the rug helps to remove surface fibers and straighten the threads for a cleaner cut.
3. Scissors and pelican scissors
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Regular scissors are used to cut off excess fabric and to refine the edges.
Pelican scissors , recognizable by their curved shape, allow for detailed work on contours and complex areas.
They are particularly useful for precise patterns, letters, or clear demarcations.
4. Tweezers
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A small tool, but very practical for removing misplaced or pulled wires .
Before or after applying the glue, it allows you to correct small defects without risking damage to the canvas.
5. The glue
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There are two complementary types of glue:
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Spray adhesive : it evenly fixes the fibers to the back of the carpet before the finishing fabric is applied.
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Hot glue (glue gun) : it is used to glue edges , especially for hems or clean finishes.
The ideal solution is to combine the two : a base of spray adhesive for general fixing, then a few dots of hot glue on critical areas.
6. The finishing fabric
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This is the final step. The finishing fabric protects the canvas, prevents the threads from fraying, and gives a clean finish.
Depending on the intended use of the rug, you can choose between cotton canvas, felt, or non-slip fabric.
Simply glue it carefully to the back, once the glue is completely dry.
In summary
The finishing touches make all the difference between a "handmade" rug and a carefully crafted rug.
It's not a question of perfection, but of precision: good brushing, a regular cut, well-distributed glue and a neatly laid fabric completely transform the final result.
With a little method and the right tools, your rug will look great whether it's for your living room, a professional project or an exhibition.
