When you think of rugs and carpets, your mind likely goes straight to the floor. But what if we told you that some of the most stylish homes today are flipping the script—by hanging rugs on the walls? That’s right: rugs as wall art have become a major interior trend, especially in boho-inspired spaces that crave texture, color, and culture.
The bohemian aesthetic thrives on the unconventional. It's about telling a story, mixing patterns, and creating a home that feels soulful and lived-in. One of the easiest ways to amplify this style is by transforming your favorite rugs and carpets into statement pieces for your walls. In this article, we’ll dive into why this trend is gaining popularity, how to pull it off, and the best types of carpets to hang for that ultimate boho vibe.
Why Hang Rugs on the Wall?
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Using rugs or carpets as wall art serves both functional and aesthetic purposes:
1. Adds Texture and Warmth
Walls are often flat and lifeless. Hanging a rug instantly adds depth and softness to a room, turning a plain surface into something cozy and inviting.
2. Creates a Focal Point
Just like a painting or framed photograph, a beautifully patterned carpet can serve as the visual anchor of a space. Whether you're highlighting a specific wall or tying together eclectic furniture, a rug on the wall grabs attention.
3. Showcases Cultural or Vintage Pieces
Many rugs—especially handwoven or antique ones—are true works of art. Hanging them preserves their craftsmanship and lets you admire the details up close.
4. Sound Absorption
Bonus: Thick carpets help with acoustics! If you live in a noisy apartment or want to soften echoes, hanging a rug can help muffle sound in a stylish way.
Best Types of Rugs and Carpets for Wall Hanging
Not every rug is suited to be a wall piece. Here are some ideal styles for turning into boho wall art:
1. Kilim Rugs
Lightweight, flat-woven, and bursting with geometric patterns, kilim rugs are perfect for wall display. They’re rich in tradition and effortlessly bohemian.
2. Macramé and Woven Carpets
Boho homes love natural fibers. Think cotton, jute, or wool in earthy tones. These rugs and carpets often come with tassels and fringe, adding extra flair.
3. Moroccan Rugs
Shaggy, textured, and often featuring bold diamond designs, Moroccan-style carpets make beautiful, high-impact wall pieces.
4. Vintage or Antique Carpets
Preserve your heirloom Persian or Oriental rugs by turning them into wall art. Their ornate patterns and rich history make them conversation starters.
Creative Ways to Hang Rugs as Wall Art
Now comes the fun part: getting your rug or carpet up on the wall. Here are a few creative, renter-friendly, and boho-chic methods to try.
1. Use a Curtain Rod
Slide your rug over a stylish curtain rod and mount it to the wall. This method works best for medium-weight carpets and allows you to swap pieces easily.
Tip: Choose a rod in brass, matte black, or wood for an earthy, boho finish.
2. Velcro Strips or Rug Clips
For a cleaner look, attach heavy-duty Velcro strips to the back of the rug and wall. Rug clips are another minimalistic and non-damaging option that hold the rug securely at the top edge.
3. Stretch It Like a Canvas
You can mount smaller rugs onto wooden frames or stretch them like tapestries. This adds a gallery-like feel to the display.
4. Use a Wooden Dowel and Leather Loops
Slide a dowel through the rug’s top seam and hang it using leather straps. It’s a simple, earthy way to embrace the boho look.
5. Layered Wall Look
Go bold and hang multiple rugs in a layered, collage style. Mix sizes, patterns, and textures for a maximalist bohemian vibe.
Boho Wall Styling Tips with Rugs and Carpets
To really embrace the boho aesthetic, follow these styling tips when hanging your carpet or rug:
1. Play with Scale
Don’t be afraid to go big. Oversized rugs can completely transform a room when used as a tapestry.
2. Combine with Other Textiles
Layer wall-hung rugs with other textiles like macramé hangings, woven baskets, or fabric panels to add visual interest.
3. Let the Colors Speak
Choose carpets and rugs that reflect your desired mood. Earthy tones bring calmness, while bold reds or blues energize the space.
4. Incorporate Plants and Lights
Surround your rug wall art with potted plants or string lights for a cozy, dreamy look that’s distinctly bohemian.
5. Don’t Be Too Symmetrical
The boho style is all about relaxed, unstructured beauty. Mix asymmetrical shapes and place your rug off-center for a more lived-in feel.
Caring for Rugs Used as Wall Art
While your rug may not see foot traffic on the wall, it still needs a bit of care:
Dust regularly to keep the fibers clean.
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Use proper hanging methods to avoid stretching or damaging the weave.
Rotate pieces occasionally to give each rug a break and refresh the look of your room.
Where to Find the Perfect Wall Rugs
You don’t have to splurge on luxury to bring this trend home. Here are a few places to hunt for boho-worthy rugs and carpets:
Local flea markets and antique stores
Handmade or artisan markets
Online boho decor shops and rug boutiques
Travel souvenirs from culturally rich regions
Repurpose a floor rug you already own and love
Final Thoughts
Using rugs as wall art is more than just a design choice—it’s a creative expression of personality, culture, and comfort. In a world filled with mass-produced art prints, a thoughtfully chosen carpet hung on the wall can bring soul and texture into your space.
Whether you’re embracing a free-spirited bohemian lifestyle or just looking to break the mold of traditional wall decor, wall-hung rugs and carpets offer an easy, affordable, and transformative design solution.
So, next time you roll out a rug, consider rolling it up and letting it shine at eye level instead. Your walls—and your style—will thank you.
