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Rug Thug: Upgrade a Cheap Rug for $10 in Under 10 Minutes

Rug fringe for the win! This inexpensive upgrade instantly makes rugs look more luxurious.

inexpensive runner rug with fringe on the floor with baby toys

Who can resist a DIY rug project? Especially when it only costs around $10.

Today I’m sharing an easy way to upgrade an inexpensive rug for about $10 in under 10 minutes. It’s quick, affordable, and makes a noticeable difference. Read on to see how simple it is.

I bought this rug on Amazon a while back and even used it briefly on my balcony after a small makeover. It now lives in my kitchen, and one thing that always bothered me was the lack of fringe on the ends.

To my eye, a rug with fringe looks more finished and expensive. If you feel the same, this hack is for you.

I originally intended to add fringe when I first bought the rug, but life got in the way until now.

side by side before and after for inexpensive rug with fringe

five examples of rug fringe laid flat on the floor

I went to a craft store to see what fringe they had in stock. I bought small amounts of several trims so I could audition different looks. Options included pom-pom trim, long and short fringe, and tassel trim. Back home, I slipped each one under the rug ends to decide which style matched best.

One of the best parts of this project is that it works on any size rug. The amount and cost of trim will vary with rug size, but even for larger rugs this remains an affordable way to elevate the look.

Here’s what you’ll need and how to do it.

adding fringe to budget-friendly rug with scissors and needle and thread

closeup of sewing rug fringe on with a needle and thread

How to Upgrade an Inexpensive Rug for $10

Materials

  • Inexpensive rug
  • Fringe trim, pom-pom trim, or tassel trim
  • Needle and thread OR iron-on no-sew tape

Instructions: Add Fringe to Any Rug

Adding trim is straightforward. All you need are scissors, the trim you like, and either a needle and thread or no-sew tape.

1. Measure and cut the trim to the correct length. I tucked the trim partially under the rug ends to check the length before cutting.

2. If sewing: thread your needle and attach the trim to the rug edge using a basic running stitch or a whipstitch. Keep stitches neat and evenly spaced so the trim lays flat.

3. When finished sewing, double- or triple-knot the thread at each end and trim any excess thread or loose fibers.

No-Sew Option

If you prefer not to sew, use iron-on no-sew tape to attach the trim. Follow the tape manufacturer’s instructions for best adhesion. Both methods are quick and effective.

Which Trim Should You Use?

There are many trim styles to choose from. I tested several and liked a medium-length fringe with a subtle decorative edge for this rug. I also tried mixing long fringe with pom-pom trim, which looked interesting but didn’t match the rug’s vibe.

Trims vary widely in price. For example, a small tassel trim spool I found cost about $6 for six feet—roughly $1 per foot. The trim I ultimately chose was $6.99 per yard and I used about four feet, so the total cost landed close to $10.

side by side rugs with different patterns

Now that you know this easy rug hack, here are a few inexpensive rug styles that would be great candidates for the upgrade if you’re looking for inspiration:

  1. Patterned printed rugs in neutral or bold colors
  2. Natural-fiber hemp rugs for a layered look
  3. Flat-woven or tufted rugs with clean edges
  4. Shag rugs with defined ends that can accommodate trim
  5. Tufted or woven rugs with understated patterns
  6. Woven rugs that pair well with contrasting fringe
  7. More hemp or natural-fiber options for a textured finish
  8. Printed rugs with graphic motifs
  9. Leather-woven rag rugs or other handcrafted styles

I’m especially drawn to natural-fiber choices—number two on this list is a favorite right now.

Do any of these rugs make you want to try this DIY hack? Which trim would you choose?

persian rug style runner with cream fringe on each end, on wood floors

cream colored fringe and tassel trim on a persian style rug

Persian style rug with cream color fringe on the end, on a warm wood floor in an entryway

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How to Upgrade an Inexpensive Rug for $10

Brittni

A quick DIY that transforms an affordable rug into a more polished piece. For most rugs, adding trim costs around $10 and takes less than 10 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Inexpensive rug
  • Fringe trim, pom-pom trim, or similar
  • Needle and thread OR no-sew tape

Instructions

  • Gather scissors, your chosen trim, and sewing supplies or no-sew tape.
  • Cut the trim to length by tucking it beneath the rug edge and marking where it should end.
  • Sew the trim to the rug with a simple running stitch or whipstitch, or attach it with iron-on no-sew tape.
  • Secure knots at the ends, trim excess thread, and smooth the fringe so it lays evenly.
  • No-sew option: use iron-on no-sew tape following the product directions for a quick attachment.

Notes

Choosing your trim

  • Try several styles before committing: long fringe, pom-poms, tassels, or a medium-length decorative fringe can all change the look dramatically.
  • Consider the rug’s pattern and texture—delicate trims suit simpler rugs, while bold fringe can enhance plain rugs.
  • Trim prices vary; some trims cost around $1 per foot while others are sold by the yard. For this project I paid about $6.99 per yard and used roughly four feet, totaling near $10.

Will you try this DIY rug hack? Would you have chosen the same trim I did or something different?

Tell me your choice in the comments below.