How To Make A Carpet Seam

NOTE: When making seams, make sure to position the second piece of carpet so that it runs in the same direction as the first. Seams should run the length of an area where traffic runs parallel to it, not across it. Seams should also not be perpendicular to doorway openings.

1. Start by getting the straightest edge possible on the piece of carpeting you will cut first. If using a cushion back carpet cutter you may make the cuts from the face side of the carpet. If using a utility knife, fold the carpet over and with a chalk line mark on the back of the carpet where it will be cut. Using a straight edge or ruler, trim the carpet as straight as possible, cutting through the back of the carpet.

2. Make sure that the edge of the trimmed piece is where the seam is wanted and there is enough carpet on both sides to reach the walls and doorways. With the uncut piece on the floor, place the edge of the cut piece on top of it, overlapping it by at least 2 inches. Use the trimmed edge of the cut piece as a guide to cut the other piece.

3. Fold back both sides and place one strip of 3-inch double-faced tape, centering the line –or two strips of double-faced tape parallel to the line, one on each side of the line. Remove the tape’s protective backing, keeping the carpet folded back.

4. Apply a drop of seam sealer (a plastic bottle with a long thin neck is highly recommended) along only one edge of the cushion-backed carpet. Seam edges must be sealed to prevent delamination and edge ravel.

5. While the sealer is still wet, complete the seam by butting both sections of the carpet together, allowing the carpet and cushion to make contact with the tape and seam sealer simultaneously. Make sure carpet fiber is not near the seam adhesive. If adhesive should come in contact with the carpet, it can be removed with a non-flammable solvent and cloth if done before the sealer has had a chance to dry.

NOTE: If the edge of the carpet at a doorway must be butted up against the carpeting in the next room, butting the two pieces in the section directly under the door where it will close may create the best appearance. Also, using metal binding strips might compliment the décor as well.