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From rugs to rug art: A traditional rag rug making technique is revived and my designs give it new life.
About my Rugs
- These rugs are soft, durable and functional and they will be a beautiful, distinctive feature in your home.
- They are made of brand new 100% cotton* fabric.
- Each rug is made from an original design. The construction method and fabric choice means that every rug is unique.
- This type of rug uses a considerable amount of material. Believe it or not, a 27" x 48" rug takes approximately 550 yards of 1 1/2" wide fabric strip; a finished rug this size will weigh approximately 5 pounds.
- The fabric strip is cut and then double-folded by hand to minimize the raw edge and give the rug a smoother appearance.
- The edge of a rug is subject to the most wear. I finish my rugs with a whip stitch because this helps the rug to wear longer.
The entire process takes a considerable amount of time but is well worth the effort as it elevates the work to tapestry art.
* as stated on manuracturer label
Caring for your Fabric Tapestry Rug*
In general:
- Dirt tends to collect underneath this type of rug rather than on the top. In general use, your rug only needs to be shaken regularly.
- When you vacuum your rug use only the suction tool as the beater bar will wear the surface of the rug.
For deeper cleaning: It is only when a rug is noticeably soiled that it should be washed.
- Your rug can be washed in a domestic washing machine if it is under 36 inches. Rugs up to 48 inches can be washed in commercial machines. Please note that wet fabrics are subject to wear from agitators and bar edges. It helps to wash them with a few towels in the same load to minimize wearing.
- A safer method which can be used with any size rug is to use the upholstery tool of a carpet cleaner machine. DO NOT use the rotating brushes. With soap in the machine and warm water, work the rug in both directions on both sides. For stubborn spots, such as grease spots, you can use a wet cloth and dishwashing liquid to scrub it. Then use the carpet machine and rinse with clear water. Rinse the rug twice to make sure that all of the soap residue is out as this will attract dirt and the rug will get soiled more quickly.
- If the weather is warm and clear, the easiest way to clean your rug is with a garden hose. Lay it on a clean, flat surface. Use a power nozzle to wet the rug, a sponge and mild soapy water to scrub the surface and a power nozzle to rinse it clean of soap. Clean both sides. Let the rug dry out of direct sunlight. When it is nearly dry, your rug can be hung over a fence or a railing to finish drying it completely.
***PLEASE NOTE: it is important to make sure all the soap is rinsed from your rug and that it is thoroughly dry before using it.
Storing your rug:
- Never fold up your rug. Folding will stress the rug and may cause stretching.
- Roll the rug with the right side out.
- For long term storage ensure that your rug is clean and dry so that it doesn't develop mildew or rot.
- DO NOT store a rug in a plastic bag. Use a sheet or pillow cases. These allow the rug to breathe.
* from Crocheted and Fabric Tapestry Rugs by Diana Blake Gray
The double-folded material strips.
The "spools" of fabric.
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