How To Patch Carpet (In 3 Easy Steps)

A few years ago we laid some new carpet in your living room. When we were finished, we had some leftover pieces of carpet. I was planning to throw them out, but my mother told me to save them. Being a good child, I did what my mother told (there is always a first time), and I put the leftovers in the attic. I am so glad I did, as they came in handy when I needed to patch my carpet.

Today we will look at how to patch carpet, what you will need, and the steps to complete everything successfully.

When Should You Patch Your Carpet

If your carpet has a small area of damage (less than a square foot), it is a good candidate for patching. If there are multiple spots or a large area, then a new carpet may be a better option.

A carpet patch can be used where the carpet is worn, stained, or burnt (which was the case in my room). The patch will not look identical to the rest of the carpet as it will not have the same wear, but it is a cheaper option than recarpeting.

What You Will Need

You don’t need a lot of equipment to patch your carpet.

1. Piece of carpet. This is the remnant piece of carpet you will use for the patch. This needs to be a carpet remnant that is bigger than the area you plan to patch. If you do not have any leftover carpet, you can try to find a close match.
2. Seam Tape. This is a special tape designed to adhere carpet to the floor strongly. It is either double-sided or pressure activated. This tape is available from most hardware shops.
3. Carpet Knife. A carpet knife is a utility knife with a strong blade designed to cut carpet. If you are working in a small area, a regular utility knife with a sharp edge will work.
4. Pencil and ruler to mark the area. Measure and mark the affected area. Make the shape as close to a square as you can. Try to remove the smallest patch of carpet as possible to keep the patch as small as possible.

A How to Patch a Carpet (Step by Step)

Once you have the equipment, it is time to patch your carpet.

Step 1 Mark and Measure

Mark the area you will be removing and make the area as close to a square as possible. Make sure the replacement piece can be cut to the same dimensions.

Step 2 Cut and Replace

Cut the affected area out of the carpet with the carpet knife. Paying attention to the grain of the carpet cut the same size square out of the repair piece. Then test that it fits in the hole left. The repair piece should fit tightly into the hole.

Step 3 Secure

Place the seam tape in the flooring along the edges of the hole. Place the donor carpet patch in the hole, making sure the grain of the carpet fibers match. Add pressure, so the seam tape adheres to the new portion of the carpet. Make sure the patch is secure, and you are finished.

Patching your carpet is an economical way to fix small burns, stains, or areas of wear and tear on your carpet. It is a job that you can do yourself and will not take a lot of time. While a patch may not look perfect, it is certainly a cheaper option than replacing the entire carpet.