Rags to Rugs: 30 New Weaving Designs for Repurposed Fabrics

In this challenging manual, weaving instructor Knisely (Spinning 101) details how to transform old clothes, blankets, and other pieces of fabric into rugs. Knisely offers a detailed overview of looms and what to look for when purchasing one for weaving rugs, explaining that the shuttles need to be relatively big so they can “hold large amounts of rags” and that floor looms are strongly preferred over less sturdy portable looms. Weighing in on the best materials for threads, the author notes that half cotton, half polyester blends are durable and easy to work with, and that linen thread is strong but “has little to no elasticity.” Each project involves tearing recycled fabric into strips, preparing thread on the loom, and then weaving the rug. Unfortunately, the complicated instructions mean this is easier said than done. Knisely falls short in his attempt to make attaching thread to the loom less “overwhelming”; beginners will struggle to follow the confusing photos and wordy instructions on “winding the warp” and “sleying the reed.” The designs themselves are inviting if straightforward, consisting largely of variations on diamond, stripe, and checkerboard motifs, but the omission of directions on how to follow a weaving chart feels like an oversight. This is best suited for experienced weavers. (Nov.)