North House Folk School

The three-strand braided wool rug is reminiscent of an era when rag rugs were considered an affordable way to reuse worn clothing and blankets to create a rug for the home.  Early American immigrants and rural pioneers handcrafted the rag rug and created a fiber tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. In this class, you will learn the craft of braiding rugs by making your own oval rug (about 2’x3’).  You are welcome to bring old blanket-weight wool to incorporate into your own rug, though the instructor will bring enough colors of wool, braiding tools, and other supplies for creating your own heirloom rug. You will purchase materials from the instructor during class, materials costs will generally come to $50-$60. Please bring cash or a check for paying for materials.

Required Tools and Materials

• Scissors
• Sewing needles
• Straight pins
• Tape measure

Optional Tools and Materials

Feel free to bring your own blanket or coat weight wool fabric