Rug Hooking Patterns

Rug hooking has been in existence for centuries, dating back as far as the third century. This is when descendants of ancient Egyptians made the very first hand hooked rug. Shortly afterwards is when China began doing rug hooking patterns. From there rug hooking made its way to the western world and became one of North America's oldest folk arts. This is because during colonial times women who could not afford to have these rugs imported from Europe made their own out of rags attached to burlap sacks. Throughout the 1940s this was one of the most popular and fastest growing hobbies in North America because it is so easy to learn.

Rug hooking is still popular today. In fact, there are now 5 different styles from which you can choose:

  1. The primitive design is great for beginners because it is the easiest style to learn. Herein ¼" strips of wool is used to create simplistic works that resemble childlike drawings. So, while there is no realism to this design's style or pattern, these rugs are great for both an antique or a modern decor.
  2. With the pictorial design you will be able to create a landscape picture. This is done by using various hook sizes and widths of wool. Once you have created this type of rug it will look great in an entrance way.
  3. A geometric rug hooking pattern is also known as an abstract pattern and it is another great way for beginners to get started. This is because this rug is simply composed of triangles, circles, squares and diamonds. The width of your wool and the size of your hook will depend upon the size of the shapes that you want to create. This is a fun, trendy rug for in a relaxed setting.
  4. There is the Waldoboro design that was created in Maine. Herein the rug is hooked on a wool backing instead of linen or burlap. The wool is then sculpted in order to give it a dimensional pattern, design or picture. These works of art will fit into any room where you can either hang it on the wall or place it on the floor.
  5. Another style is the realistic style which uses a narrow strip of wool that is no wider than 1/8" and results in a very realistic looking picture. Herein you will need to work with a variety of colors in order to get the correct shading. This is why the realistic style is definitely the hardest type of rug hooking there is.

Rug hooking is a tradition that has been handed down throughout time. It has been carried into our modern world and yet many people still enjoy it. The results of rug hooking are beautiful works of art that make marvelous wall hangings or beautiful rugs that make a statement.