Rug Hooking Yesterday and Today

Rug Hooking originated in the early nineteenth century by European settlers. Rug Hooking came about because it was simply too expensive for most families to buy the floor coverings brought in by European ships. Rather than have bare floors, women used potato sacks, fabric scraps and yarn to create functional floor coverings. Back then, most rugs weren’t much longer than two or three feet and area rugs were practically unheard of in colonial homes.

Today, Rug Hooking is considered an American folk art. It is a passionately loved hobby for many individuals, who take great pride in carrying on this tradition. It isn’t difficult to get started yourself, and the Internet can give you all of the resources you need to get involved. Through online shopping, you can find kits for beginners and get in contact with more experienced people familiar with Rug Hooking eager to show you the ropes!

Although you can teach yourself the art of Rug Hooking using just the Internet and instructional books, you will also find it in your best interest to “hook up” with crafters in your area. If there simply aren’t any, consider signing up with an online group. They should be able to point you in the right direction and answer any questions you might have. Soon enough, hooked rugs will line your floors too!

Happy Hooking,
Dixie Cox