DIY Outdoor Rug from Dollar Store Placemats & Shelf Liner: Durable & Budget-Friendly!

Updated at: 28/01/2025

Tired of drab outdoor spaces and hefty price tags on outdoor rugs? Transform your patio, deck, or porch into a stylish oasis without breaking the bank! This project reveals how to create a durable and surprisingly chic outdoor rug using nothing more than inexpensive dollar store placemats and shelf liner. Forget spending a fortune on pre-made rugs – this clever DIY solution offers a fantastic alternative, perfect for adding a splash of color and personality to your outdoor living area. You'll be amazed at the transformation achieved with such readily available and affordable materials.

This ingenious project cleverly repurposes everyday items into something truly unique and practical. The resulting rug is both weather-resistant and surprisingly resilient, standing up to the elements while adding a touch of elegance. Ready to get started on creating your own stunning outdoor rug? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and bring your outdoor space to life!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Dollar Store placemats
  • Shelf liner
  • Box cutter or scissors
  • E6000 adhesive
  • Hot glue gun
Safety Guidelines
  • Always work in a well-ventilated area, as some adhesives used may release fumes.
  • Use caution when handling scissors and other sharp tools during the cutting and assembly process.
  • Ensure the adhesive used is suitable for outdoor use and can withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture to prevent premature wear and tear.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Shelf Liner Strips

    • Cut five 2-inch wide strips from a shelf liner roll. You'll only need four for this project.
    Measure and cut shelf liner strips: Cut five 2-inch wide strips from a shelf liner roll. You'll only need four for this project.
    Prepare Shelf Liner Strips

  2. Arrange Placemats

    • Arrange the placemats in the desired pattern (in this case, three rows of three).
    Arrange placemats: Arrange the placemats in the desired pattern (in this case, three rows of three).
    Arrange Placemats

  3. Apply Adhesive to Seams

    • Use E6000 adhesive and hot glue to attach the 2-inch shelf liner strips to the seams where the placemats meet. The E6000 provides extra durability, especially for areas with direct sunlight.
    • Apply small dots of E6000 followed by hot glue to secure the strips efficiently.
    Glue in sections: Apply small dots of E6000 followed by hot glue to secure the strips efficiently. Glue in sections: Apply small dots of E6000 followed by hot glue to secure the strips efficiently.
    Apply Adhesive to Seams

  4. Dry the Adhesive

    • Let the adhesive dry completely for at least 4 hours before flipping the rug over.
    Let it dry: Let the adhesive dry completely for at least 4 hours before flipping the rug over.
    Dry the Adhesive

  5. Attach Strips to the Back

    • After drying, flip the rug over and glue the remaining shelf liner strips to the back to secure all the placemats.
    Attach strips to the back: After drying, flip the rug over and glue the remaining shelf liner strips to the back to secure all the placemats.
    Attach Strips to the Back

Read more: Build a Sag-Proof Wood Fence Gate: The Ultimate DIY Guide

Tips

  • Using both E6000 and hot glue ensures a more durable and long-lasting rug, especially in areas with direct sunlight.
  • The size of the rug is customizable depending on the number of placemats used.
  • This method isn't limited to outdoor use. It can be used indoors in various areas such as a kid's playroom or a workshop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Cutting or Placement of Placemats

Reason: Inconsistent cutting of placemats or inaccurate placement during assembly leads to a messy, unprofessional-looking final product.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut each placemat to ensure consistent sizing and precisely align them before adhering.

2. Insufficient Adhesive or Improper Adhesion Technique

Reason: Using too little adhesive or applying it unevenly results in weak bonds and placemats separating over time. Poor choice of adhesive also impacts durability.
Solution: Use a strong adhesive appropriate for both placemats and shelf liner, applying it evenly across all surfaces and following the manufacturer's instructions for drying time.

FAQs

How durable is a rug made from placemats and shelf liner?
The durability depends on the materials you choose. Look for thicker placemats and shelf liner with a good adhesive. While not as durable as a professionally made rug, this DIY option offers surprising resilience for low-traffic areas. Expect it to last several months to a year with normal use. Avoid placing it in areas exposed to heavy moisture or direct sunlight for extended periods.
What kind of placemats and shelf liner work best?
Thicker placemats, preferably plastic or vinyl, will create a more sturdy rug. For the shelf liner, choose a textured option – a grippy material will help the placemats adhere better and prevent slipping. Avoid flimsy or easily-torn materials.
Can I use this method for any size rug?
Yes, you can! The size of your rug will simply depend on how many placemats and shelf liner you use. Plan your design and measure accordingly before starting. Larger rugs will naturally require more materials and time to assemble.