How to Make a Rag Rug

Rag rugs. They are such a classic!  All of us have probably seen them in our grandmothers’ homes.

These rugs were, and are, so economical and very stylish.  More about that later!

Everything needed to learn how to make a rag rug can be found on this page.  There are tutorials and patterns showing how to weave a rag rug as well as braid and crochet rag rugs! 

What are rag rugs?

Rag rugs are a classic rustic style of rugs designed due to the need for inexpensive and efficient home decor.  

Rag rugs are area rugs in many shapes and sizes and composed from fabric scraps.  The fabric scraps can be used to make a crochet rag rug, braided rug, or even a woven rug.

Making rag rugs is a DIY old farmhouse project and an inexpensive, creative and fun way to repurpose and recycle old fabric and clothing.  All of the supplies needed are some fabric scraps or old clothing and basic hand sewing supplies.

Rag rugs were popular during the industrial revolution using fabric scraps, flour sacks, and old clothing.  During the 1920s, the act of making these rugs began declining.

Areas of poverty did continue this economical way of rug making. During World War II, when families needed to be thrifty, weaving, crocheting and braiding rag rugs made a brief come-back.

Now rag rug tutorials abound, as the craft is resurfacing.  It’s easy, fun, relaxing, and uses up all of those scraps!  

What can you use to make a rag rug?

As mentioned above, rag rugs are very economical!  There is no need to run out and spend hard earned cash on fabric from the craft stores. 

These rugs can be made from T-shirts, sheets, remnants of old clothing, and even thrift store fabrics and clothes!

Repurposing fabric to make a rag rug keeps the cost so low.  Most of the investment is in the time and energy used to make them.

Take a minute to scroll down this page to see all there is to see about rag rugs!  This homesteading tradition will become a staple craft in your home!