Carpet Whipping & Overlocking
Carpet whipping—also called overlocking or serging—is machine stitching yarn around a cut carpet edge. It helps reduce fraying and gives rugs, runners, mats and shaped carpet pieces a neat finished edge.
How carpet whipping works
The edge finish is chosen around the shape and intended use of the piece. We can discuss working from customer measurements or a physical template, so the right starting point depends on the project.
- 1. Share the shapeSend photos, measurements and any available template information so the piece can be discussed accurately.
- 2. Cut or prepareCarpet can be cut accurately from measurements or a physical template where that is part of the agreed job.
- 3. Finish the edgeYarn is stitched around the cut edge, with a colour selected to match or contrast with the carpet.
Applications for whipped carpet edges
Gallery and service material show carpet whipping used across a wide range of made-to-measure pieces, including:
- Rugs, runners and mats for rooms, hallways and doorways.
- Stair runners and shaped stair pieces.
- Caravan and motorhome flooring and vehicle carpet pieces.
- Boat interiors and specialist aircraft or helicopter mats.
- Pet mats, dog-shaped rugs, motorbike mats and other unusual shapes.
Yarn colours and finish
The service description refers to a huge range of yarn colours, allowing a close match or a deliberate contrast. The gallery also shows natural-toned and multi-coloured yarn options.
Tell us whether you want the edging to blend into the carpet or stand out. If you are unsure which yarn is suitable for a particular pile or backing, include a close-up photo and ask before ordering.
Whipping or tape binding?
| Whipping | Tape binding |
|---|---|
| Yarn stitched around the carpet edge. | Fabric tape stitched around the carpet edge. |
| See the whipping options. | Compare the tape binding service. |
What to send for a quote
A photo-led enquiry is a useful starting point. Include:
- Photos of the carpet face, backing and every edge to be finished.
- Approximate length, width and any curves, corners, cut-outs or joins.
- Whether you need the piece cut, templated, whipped or compared with tape binding.
- Your preferred yarn colour, if you already have one in mind.
- The town or area where the project is located.
Ask about compatibility with your carpet type, current price, timing, and whether fitting, collection or delivery is part of the job; those details are not fixed on this page.
Carpet whipping questions
What is carpet whipping?
It is machine stitching yarn around a cut carpet edge to help reduce fraying and create a neat, finished edge.
Is carpet whipping the same as overlocking or serging?
These are commonly used names for the yarn-over-edge finishing process. The exact finish is discussed against the carpet and intended use.
Can you edge my own carpet offcut?
Yes, customers can bring their own carpet remnants or new pieces. Send a photo and measurements so the material and shape can be discussed.
Can you whip unusual shapes?
The gallery includes dog-shaped, U-shaped, motorbike, boat and helicopter pieces. Share the shape before committing so its suitability can be assessed.
How much does carpet whipping cost and how long does it take?
Price and timing depend on the measurements, shape, material and finish. Send those details for a tailored quote.
Have a carpet edge to finish?
Send the shape, measurements and a few photos for a tailored conversation about carpet whipping or binding.
Request a quote