Tom Knisely

Like most rag rugs, the projects presented are primarily designed for the 4 shaft loom with one rug requiring 8 shafts.

The first section of the book presents the 30 rag rug projects. As in the other Tom Knisely project books (Weaving Rag Rugs, Handwoven Table Linens and Handwoven Baby Blankets), he provides the draft and materials list without providing the warp length and amount of yarn required. This is to allow you to determine the warp length based on your rug preference and to allow you to adjust for multiple rugs on the same warp. He does walk you through the calculations for determining the warp length in another section of the book.

The title suggests that the rug designs are new. This is not the case. What is new, or new again, is the emphasis on weaving rag rugs using found or repurposed materials rather than purchased fabric in more recent rag rug books. Each design is forwarded by an anecdote about the inspiration for the rug. These are classic Tom Knisely – warm and engaging – reminding you why the author is a favorite speaker and instructor.

The final third of the book goes over the basics of weaving rag rugs. There is a lot of useful information presented focused on the special needs of rug weaving. He begins with a discussion of weaving equipment and tools from the different shuttles and temples available to weighting your beater and preventing your loom from walking. This is followed by a description of the various options available to the weaver for warp. You are not limited to 8/4 cotton rug warp! Next up is how to prepare your weft finds for weaving the rug. The book wouldn’t be complete without a section on how to wind your warp and dress the loom, though Tom Knisely does say this a condensed version and refers you to his first rag rug book for more details.

This book is worth picking up to read the anecdotes before each project. They will provide inspiration for a new look at the textiles in everyday life. You may even look forward to cleaning out your linen or clothes closet. Give a stained heirloom a new purpose and recall happy memories whenever you walk on it.… (plus d'informations)

Excellent book on rag weaving. This book contains everything you need to know to successfully weave rag rugs. There is an interesting chapter on the history of the rag rug. There are explanations of equipment and materials needed. Then the steps and processes for weaving are clearly explained. Following that are instructions for more than 30 rugs. Beautifully put together with lots of full color images of all steps in the process and all the rugs, including amounts needed and images of the cloth used in each rug before it is cut so that you can see what types of material make what types of rugs.… (plus d'informations)