To roll up carpet, specifically an area rug, you begin by holding one end and rolling it carefully against the direction of the rug's nap or pile to create a tight, cylinder-like bundle.
Rolling up an area rug properly helps protect it during storage or transport. Here's a simple breakdown based on common practice.
Steps for Rolling Up an Area Rug
Proper technique ensures the rug maintains its shape and avoids damage.
- Identify the Grain: Feel the rug's fibers (nap or pile). They will feel smoother when stroked in one direction and rougher when stroked in the opposite direction. This is the "grain."
- Choose the Starting End: Hold the end of the area rug. You will roll against the direction of the nap or pile. This usually means starting at the end where the fibers feel rougher when rolling towards you.
- Begin Rolling: Roll the rug slowly and carefully from that end.
- Keep it Tight: Aim to create a tight, cylinder-like bundle. This prevents creases and makes the rug easier to handle.
- Use a Rod (Optional): To help keep the roll straight, you can lay a wooden dowel or rod along the length of the carpet at the starting end and roll your rug around it.
Why Roll Against the Nap?
Rolling an area rug against the natural lie of the fibers helps to protect the rug's structure and pile. Rolling with the nap can sometimes cause creases or distort the fibers over time.
Summary of the Process
Here's a quick list of the key actions:
- Hold one end of the area rug.
- Roll against the direction of the grain (rug nap or pile).
- Roll slowly and carefully.
- Form a tight, cylinder-like bundle.
- Optionally use a wooden dowel or rod for a straighter roll.
Following these steps, as described in the provided information, allows you to effectively roll up an area rug for storage or moving.
