How to layer rugs
Layering two rugs adds texture and depth, lets you use a favourite small rug in a big room, and protects a delicate rug with a hard-wearing base. Here is how to do it well.
Why layer rugs?
- Make a small statement rug work in a large room.
- Add texture: soft on firm, pattern on plain.
- Zone an open-plan space.
- Add warmth in winter without replacing the main rug.
Choose the base rug
The bottom rug should be large, flat and fairly plain. Flatweaves and natural fibres such as jute are ideal, because they are thin and textured and let the top rug lie flat. See jute rugs and flatweave rugs.
Choose the top rug
The top rug is the star: a pattern, a colour, a shaggy pile or a vintage design. Shaggy, Berber, abstract and Persian-style rugs all work well on a jute base.
Get the sizes right
Show at least 30 cm of the base rug on every side, and ideally 40 to 60 cm. As a rule of thumb, the top rug should be about two-thirds the size of the base rug.
| Base rug | Top rug |
|---|---|
| 200 x 290 cm | 120 x 170 cm or 160 x 230 cm |
| 240 x 340 cm | 160 x 230 cm or 200 x 290 cm |
| 160 x 230 cm | 80 x 150 cm or 120 x 170 cm |
Mixing textures and patterns
- Texture contrast: soft on rough (shaggy on jute), or flat on plush.
- Pattern rule: one patterned rug plus one plain rug is easiest. Two patterns can work if they share a colour and differ in scale.
- Colour: link the two rugs with one shared tone.
- Angle: laying the top rug at a slight angle looks relaxed; square to the base looks tailored.
Keep it flat and safe
- Put a non-slip pad under the base rug on hard floors.
- Use double-sided rug tape or a thin grip mat between the layers if the top rug moves.
- Avoid layering in walkways or on stairs, where edges become trip hazards.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a rug on top of another rug?
Yes. Use a large, flat base rug and a smaller top rug, and stop the top rug moving with a grip mat or rug tape.
What size rug should go on top of a jute rug?
About two-thirds the size, leaving at least 30 cm of the jute showing all round. On a 200 x 290 cm jute rug, use 120 x 170 cm or 160 x 230 cm.
Is layering rugs still in style?
Layering is a long-standing designer technique rather than a passing trend, especially with natural base rugs.
Can you layer rugs on carpet?
Yes, with a rug-to-carpet underlay under the base rug so it does not creep.
Shop the guide
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Nature Jute Rug in Natural, 120 cm round
from £69.98 -
Korra Loop Jute Rug in Slate Cream Wool &
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Korra Loop Jute Rug in Linen Cream Wool &
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Korra Double Loop Jute Rug in Cream Linen Wool &
from £99.98
Shop all jute rugs and natural fibre rugs
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Luca Rug in Sage Green
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Lila Rug in Tan & Brown
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Fes FE03 Rug in Beige
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Atlas Shaggy Rug in Silver
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Related guides
- Jute rugs: pros, cons and care
- Rug styles glossary: Persian to Scandi
- How to put a rug on carpet
- All rug guides
Questions about a specific rug? Every product page lists the maker's size, material, pile height and care details. Delivery is free to England, Wales and mainland Scotland: 2-5 working days for Asiatic rugs and 1-2 working days for Livabliss rugs. See delivery and returns.