How To Make Braided Rug

Create a cozy braided rug with the links on this page. Braided rugs are more than just floor coverings - they’re a fun and creative DIY project that anyone can try. With just a few simple materials, like fabric strips or old clothes, braid and stitch together a rug that is as unique as any home.

The process of making a rug is relaxing, and the end result is a handmade piece that adds warmth and personality to any space. The colors and patterns are completely up to the crafter, making this a truly unique piece.

What is the history of braided rug making?

Braided rugs originated in early colonial America, especially in New England during the late 1700s. Settlers needed sturdy coverings to insulate their homes from the cold wooden floors.

These settlers relied on scraps of fabric, worn-out clothing, and any other leftover fabric. Instead of wasting these materials, they cut them into strips, braided them, and sewed the braids into spirals or ovals to form durable rugs.

The craft of making braided rugs became especially popular in rural areas where nothing went to waste. Wool, cotton, and even feed sacks were repurposed into colorful rugs that added warmth and a cheeriness to plain interiors.

Braided rugs were often handmade by women and passed down through families as both useful household items and treasured heirlooms. Over time, the braided rug has come to symbolize American folk art.

What materials can be used for making braided rugs?

A braided rug can be made from many different materials. Part of the charm is using what is on hand. Some ideas include:

• Old clothing, such as worn-out jeans, flannel shirts, T-shirts, and even pajamas, can be cut into strips and braided.
• Fabric scraps are perfect for quilters or sewists, like cotton, wool, or fleece scraps.
• Recycled linens such as sheets, pillowcases, tablecloths, or curtains can be repurposed into braiding materials.
• Thick and chunky yarn can make soft and colorful rugs, too!
• Heavy and durable rugs can be made from wool blankets or coats that have been cut into strips.
• Tarn (T-shirt yarn) is a stretchy material that makes rugs very comfortable to walk on.
• For a sturdier and rustic braided rug, consider rope or cord.
• Felted wool, which is made by washing old wool sweaters, is thick and easy to braid.

The key to choosing materials for braided rugs is ensuring they are strong, flexible, and washable so that the rug will hold up over time.

To learn about other rug-making methods, such as rag rugs or latch hook rugs, visit our pages featuring complete tutorials.

This page is filled with exciting ideas for creating braided rugs. Scroll down to see the wonderful examples and tutorials for a rug you will love to make!