If one IKEA hack is good, two are even better, right? (And let’s face it, if you’re a dedicated IKEA hacker, you could likely fill a book with all of your projects.) Take Becky Johnson, for example, who sent us her absolutely stunning arched BILLY bookcase hack earlier this year.
That particular built-in hack included multiple projects, and one we touched on briefly was the fabulous jute rug. Becky wanted to stack a smaller rug on top of a large jute rug, but most of the over-sized rugs she looked at cost between $600 and $1,000 or more. (No, thanks!)
As any respectable hacker would do, Becky skipped the high price tag. She shared, “I just had a feeling that there was a budget-friendly hack that I could figure out.” And, figure it out she did.
Becky decided to join two IKEA LOHALS rugs to create one impressive anchor for her living room. Here’s how she pulled off her massive jute rug hack.
What You’ll Need
- 2 IKEA LOHALS rugs (6’7” x 9’10”)
- Jute string
- Bobby pin or paper clip (to use as a needle)
- Scissors
Get a Massive Jute Rug for Less!
1. Position the Rugs Together
Place the two rugs side by side and make sure they’re evenly aligned. Also, make sure both are right-side up (the back side has a rougher edging). When you put the two together, you’ll end up with a huge 9′ 10″ x 19′ 8″ rug for less than $400!
2. Start Stitching
String together some jute string and use a basic bobby pin or paper clip as a big needle to sew the rugs together. Alternatively, you can use an actual large needle.
Sew in a simple zigzag pattern, starting at the center of the rugs and working outward to the edges. Start sewing from the bottom and come up, so your sewing string’s final knot lands on the underside of the rugs.
Time-saving Tip! If you’re planning to layer another rug on top of your over-sized jute creation, then here’s a tip from Becky. She only sewed about two feet on each side, instead of sewing the entire seam. You’ll save a lot of time, and Becky says the rugs have stayed perfectly in place for over two years.
3. Finish Off With a Knot
Pull the string a little tight as you sew, but not too much. Pulling too tight will make the edges curl, making it more obvious that you’re using two rugs. Tie a simple knot under the rugs to finish things off. That’s it!
Why the Choice to Layer Rugs?
You’ll see a lot of designers stack two different rugs together. It’s a way to expand the visual surface area and create a balanced look in your space.
Moreover, layering adds depth to your design, especially when using something like a jute rug as the base. The natural woven material, warm tones, and texture elevate the overall look, while adding visual interest and a sense of chic coziness.
Gotta Love a Hack That Saves You Money!
Typically, you replicate the designer, layered look by putting a smaller rug on top of a larger one. Therefore, you need to find a large area rug as your base. Since rugs get more expensive the larger they get, it’s a no-brainer to follow in Becky’s footsteps and fake the look.
The LOHALS are $180 apiece, so you get a rug that looks like $1,000 for $360. Or save even more by scoping out IKEA’s as-is section first. Alternatively, see if you can find what you need on secondhand sites like Facebook Marketplace.
The idea to connect small rugs to create one larger area rug is a great way to save money. Think you’re going to give it a try?
If you have any questions about Becky’s projects, or would love to brainstorm with her on your next DIY hack, make sure to check her out @DIYWithBecky! And don’t forget to share your hack with us for a chance to be featured on the site!