What is a Rag Rug?

A rag rug is a rug which is made from recycled fabric, although modern rag rugs are sometimes made with new materials as well. Originally, rag rugs were purely pragmatic, designed to get every possible use from every scrap of fabric in a home. In the modern era, rag rugs are viewed more as decorative artifacts and fun craft projects.

Many flooring stores stock a variety of rag rugs, especially if they cater to people with a country or rustic design aesthetic. It is also possible to find rag rugs at craft cooperatives and art fairs; artisans make stunning examples of rag rugs which are both beautiful and durable. Some people prefer to make their own rag rugs. There are dozens of ways to create a rag rug; most crafters specialize in one or two techniques.

Traditionally, women collected scraps of fabric in large bags. These scraps included garments, leftovers from sewing projects, and pieces of quilts and other projects. When a bag grew large enough, it was turned out, and women cut the scraps into long strips, sewing the strips together to create large balls of what was essentially yarn. With this yarn, a rag rug could be created.

Assembly techniques for rag rugs include weaving, crocheting, knotting, braiding, and hooking. There are numerous branches of these techniques which can be used to create a dizzying array of patterns and designs. A finished rag rug is typically quite colorful, thanks to all the mixed scraps, and it is also thick, because the strips of rags are thick enough to create a dense finished product. The thickness of a rag rug makes it an excellent insulator; many homes in colder regions of the world have floors covered in rag rugs to help keep the cold out.

In traditional communities, women and men still make rag rugs from scraps of recycled material which can vary widely from coarse wool to fine silk. Other crafters purchase scraps specifically designed for making rag rugs, chair covers, and similar projects. It is also possible to make strips from entirely new sheets of fabric, of course; people who have a specific color scheme in mind may utilize this technique for their rugs.

If you have not made a rag rug before, there are numerous books and online tutorials with directions. Some communities also offer classes in rug making and textiles which may include working with rag rugs, and some crafting circles welcome newcomers who are interested in learning traditional techniques.