Twined Rag Rugs

Twining, usually worked on some type of frame or on a loom, is a type of weaving that involves twisting weft strands around warp (vertical) strands to make a strong and decorative fabric. Twining done with rag strips is an effective technique for making sturdy objects like rugs, bath mats, baskets, and bags. Irwin has been studying this craft since 1980 when (as a census-taker) she met Lillie Sherwood, an 80-year-old rug weaver living on an isolated ranch in Idaho, and discovered a craft that she, an experienced weaver, had never seen before. This richly illustrated book includes step-by-step instructions for nine samplers and ten full-sized twined rugs as well as information on constructing a basic twining frame and preparing the rag-strip weft. A photo gallery of rugs and personal stories of rug twiners round out this fascinating volume. Warmly recommended for public libraries.

-Library Journal

Bobbie Irwin has studied twined rag rugs and their history since first seeing them in 1980. A frequent contributor to fiber-art and textile journals, she is recognized as an authority on rag twining and has published articles about the craft in The Weaver’s Journal, Heddle, Piecework, and Rug Hooking magazines. (She insists, though, that the real authorities are the people who have been twining rag rugs for a lifetime!)

Since 1985, Bobbie has lectured and taught classes about twined rag rugs throughout the United States and Canada. Through her worldwide research, she has worked to determine the origins of rag twining and to revive this fascinating craft for the enjoyment of future generations.

Twined Rag Rugs is the first complete book on rag twining and the only resource to include the numerous variations in equipment, pattern, and twining techniques, both traditional and modern.