Rug Braiding, a unique American craft developed as a way of turning scrap cloth into something useful. . . and gorgeous too! Learn about the craft of making traditional braided rugs as well as the art form it has evolved into. In this episode we discuss the origins of braided rugs, how they’re made, how the craft has evolved, and getting started on making one of your own.

. . . I think I need a new rug in the house! This conversation definitely inspired me to want to do a little braiding!

Resources Mentioned

Combining Rug Hooking and Braiding: Basics, Borders, and Beyond by Kris McDermet, Christine Manges, and Dianne Tobias

The Braided Rug Book by Norma M. Sturges

Marjorie K’s Youtube Channel — Rug braiding tutorials

Rug braiding tools/supplies (braidkin, cotton splicing thread, needle nose pliers etc.) — I was going to look for braidkins to link up so folks could find them, this page at Dorr Mill has all of the above in one place, super convenient!

Valley Forge Rug Braiding Guild — Pennsylvania (also, their Calendar page is a good place to see some upcoming events and see if anything is happening in your area)

Rocky Mountain Rug Braiders Guild — Colorado

The International Guild of Handhooking Rugmakers

This post also lists contact information for a few other guilds which don’t appear to have their own websites.

This blog post we reference a few times during the conversation– check it out to see some great examples of rug braiding!

Rug Braiding Facebook group — A very helpful group! I’ve just lurked in the background, but I’ve enjoyed seeing the pictures people post and it’s awesome how helpful folks are if you ask a question.

Rug Braiding Buy/Sell Facebook group

thevelvethook.com — Dianne’s hand dyed velvet business

The Velvet Hook on Instagram

The Velvet Hook on Facebook