If you are considering installing your own carpet, you will need to know how to put a seam in the carpet. Using a carpet seam iron is not too difficult with the right tools and a little patience. Doing it yourself can save you money and give you the satisfaction of a job done well.

Preparing the Carpet

Start by getting your edges to match properly for an invisible seam. Look at the back of the carpet for arrows and make sure they are pointing the same direction to match up the pattern and nap. Then, with the carpet pieces laid out side by side and face up, use a straight edge and carpet knife to cut a clean, straight line on one piece. Now slide the second piece several inches under the first one so they overlap. Adjust the pieces for the best pattern fit, then use the top piece for a straight edge and cut the bottom to match. Work carefully to make sure you have an accurate cut, and then remove the scrap material.

Preparing the Carpet Seam Iron

Lift the seam edges and place the adhesive tape so that half of it is under each piece. Then lay the edges back down. If everything still matches, you are ready for the iron. Heat up the iron to the temperature setting recommended by the manufacturer of the tape or carpet. Even though it has a stand, it's a good idea to place the iron on a scrap piece of carpet, just in case it falls over. Make sure your cord is long enough to reach the entire seam.

Starting at one end, carefully raise both seam edges and place the iron onto the adhesive tape. As the glue softens, slide the iron along the tape. You want the glue to melt but not burn, so you might want to practice on a scrap piece. Work with manageable sections and smooth the seam together behind the iron. Place a weight, like a tool box, on the seam so that the edges stay flat while the glue cures and keep moving down the seam until finished.