Service Description

Working in a museum environment for many years inspired heritage arts’ instructor Helen Sluis to learn how to recreate a wide variety of 19th century handicrafts including rag rugs. Unlike grandma’s rag rugs, this centuries old technique involves no sewing, using a combination of braiding and weaving to hold the rug together. The result is a rug that is not only very durable, but also reversible, and, if kept under 4’ in diameter, machine washable as well. Oval, round, and square forms will be demonstrated during the workshop. Participants will make an 8” “rug” that can be used as-is, as a trivet, or potholder, or as a starter for a larger project. Since the piece is never truly ‘Finished’, additional fabric can always be added to enlarge it. This technique can be used to make other useful items such as placemats, chair seats, etc. All supplies will be provided!

Contact Details

• 341 Herkimer Street, Hamilton, ON, Canada

  289-683-1197

  mary@backalleygallery.ca