Pull together long strips of fabric and start tying to make a quick and whimsical rug. Spend a little more time and sew first for a neater final product.
Old fabric can have new life as a durable and washable rug. While some crochet crafts can be complicated, this one is a simple as can be. A rag rug can be a fun addition to a mud room or a bathroom. The bumpy tops of these easy to make rugs are great for wiping boots or for massaging bare feet.
How to Make a Rug
- Start with some old fabric that can be cut into 1" strips at least 16" long. Old jeans, canvas tarps, sheets and towels are all acceptable choices. The sturdier the fabric, the sturdier the rug will be. Leftover quilting scraps will also work. Because they are usually small scraps, these should be sewn together, rather that tied, however.
- Cut the fabric into strips. Tie the pieces together end to end using a simple double knot. A length of 10 yards will make a small rug. More pieces can be added even after the rug is started, so final size can be determined as the rug progresses.
- Tie a loop in one end of the strip and begin a basic crochet stitch. No hook is needed. Fingers can do this work quickly. Push a loop of fabric through the first tied loop. The second loop then acts as the first and a new loop is pushed through. Continue this process for several stitches.
- When a row of 6 to 8 inches is completed, begin pushing new loops through previous stitches in order to bind the rug together. Begin the new stitches in the same way as the first row. Then, push a first loop through an old stitch before a second loop is pushed through. This is also a basic crochet stitch. If this step is mastered, the rug is as good as done.
- Continue the binding stitches, working in an oval. Be cautious not to make the stitches too tight or the rug will begin to take on a shallow bowl shape.
- Finish by tying the end to the outside edge of the rag rug.
Make Your Own Rug Unique
- Don't be afraid to mix colors of fabric. More colors make for a more interesting finished product.
- It is best to use the same type of fabric throughout one entire rug. Use coarse fabrics for entryway rugs. Use softer fabrics for bathrooms or bedrooms.
- To avoid hanging strips and frayed edges, sew the strips together rather than tying them. Cut 2" wide strips and sew them end to end. Next, fold the edges to the inside and then fold the strips in half to conceal the fabric edges. Iron the folds to hold them in place. Sew along the entire length before beginning the crocheting.
- These rugs are sturdy. Machine wash them according to the instructions for the fabric from which they are made.
Copyright Mary Hudlemeyer. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.
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