How to cut a rug pad to size: Hello and welcome to another informative guide brought to you by WhatsMyRugSize! In today’s quick tutorial, we’ll tackle a common issue: dealing with a rug and padding that don’t quite match in size.

If you’ve ever wondered how to trim a rug pad to achieve a clean and straight cut, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process.
Materials Needed
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
- Two pieces of wood
- Utility knife with a sharp blade
- Marker
- Straight edge (preferably metal)
Procedure
1. Marking to Cut

Start by laying your rug flat and identifying the areas where the excess padding needs to be removed. Using a marker, make precise marks on both ends and along the sides where the cut needs to be made. This ensures accuracy in the cutting process.
2. avoid damaging the floor

To avoid damaging the floor beneath, lift the rug slightly and slide the two pieces of wood underneath. This creates a protective barrier between the utility knife and the floor.
3. Setting Up the Straight Edge

Place the metal straight edge along the marked lines. Ensure that it covers the entire length of the cut. If your straight edge is not as long as the rug, fold back the excess rug to access different sections.
4. Cutting the Rug Pad

With the straight edge in place, carefully use the utility knife to cut along the marked lines. The sharp blade ensures a clean cut, and the metal straight edge provides stability, preventing the knife from deviating.
5. Progressive Cutting

Continue to cut along the marked lines, moving the straight edge as needed. It’s crucial to keep the blade sharp for a smoother cutting experience. If the rug pad is still partially attached after cutting, use the utility knife to complete the cut.
6. Final Checks
Once the cutting is complete, remove the excess rug pad. If any sections remain connected, carefully use the utility knife to detach them while ensuring the wood is still underneath to protect the floor.
7. Clean Finish
Fold back the rug and inspect your work. You should have a neatly trimmed rug pad that matches the dimensions of your rug perfectly.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Trimming a rug pad doesn’t have to be a challenging task. By using the right tools and following a systematic approach, you can achieve a clean and straight cut, ensuring your rug and padding complement each other seamlessly.
Remember, a sharp blade, a stable straight edge, and a careful technique are the keys to success. Thanks for joining us in this quick tutorial, and we’ll see you on the next one!

I am Zuhe Honorata Ejsmont, I have over 8 years of experience working with rugs and carpets, and I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned through my blog. I’m passionate about helping people find the perfect rug to fit their style and needs. I focus on clear, easy-to-understand advice about different materials, designs, and care tips.
Currently, I serve as a co-founder of WhatsMyRugsize.com. When I’m not writing, I love exploring local markets to discover unique rugs and adding new touches to my own home.