Textile Rug Making: Beginners Workshop

Learn traditional rug making with our handcraft short courses in Sydney!

Discover the timeless art of rug hooking in this hands-on, sustainable craft workshop.

Rug hooking is an ancient and meditative practice that has been passed down through generations. Once nearly lost to history, it’s now enjoying a revival thanks to its creative possibilities, calming benefits, and eco-friendly approach – using recycled and scrap materials to create beautiful, functional textiles.

It is an eco-friendly craft where you can make 'rugs from rags', making use of recycled and scrap materials.

In this workshop, you’ll learn two traditional techniques: hooky and proggy rug making. Using these methods, you can create everything from rugs and wall hangings to coasters, bags and cushions.

With expert guidance from our experienced tutor, you’ll get hands-on with the tools and materials, explore a wide range of creative effects, and start two unique projects in class. You’ll also learn how to finish your pieces, so you leave with the confidence to continue crafting at home.

This is a great opportunity to spend a mindful day learning a sustainable skill – and you'll go home with the beginnings of two original handmade textiles.

Image credit: Work created by past student Theresa Reynolds.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this Textile Rug Making Workshop, you should be able to:

• Design and create textile items using hooky and proggy techniques
• Prepare base fabric for different design and functional purposes
• Choose materials based on artistic and practical considerations
• Transfer a design onto backing fabric using various techniques
• Finish the edges of your work using suitable methods for the end use.

Course content

What will be covered in this Textile Rug Making Workshop?

Morning: Introduction and techniques

• Explore the history and revival of rug hooking, from traditional to contemporary styles
• Learn how to prepare and cut fabric for both hooky and proggy techniques
• Experiment with high and low effects, different fabric types, colours, and textures
• Combine techniques to create 3D effects and flowers
• Understand which techniques best suit different design outcomes

Afternoon: Design and finishing

• Create your own pattern template and transfer your design onto backing fabric
• Learn how to finish edges using different methods (including mitred corners and tape finishing)
• Understand which edge finishing methods suit different end uses – from light coasters to wall hangings and rugs

Intended audience

Who is this Textile Rug Making Workshop for?

This course is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced crafters looking to explore a new textile technique.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon St & Victoria Rd on the grounds of St. Joseph's Church)

Course materials

Materials provided

All materials and tools are provided for use in class, including hooky and proggy tools. You’ll have the option to purchase your own tool set at the checkout to continue your projects at home.

What to bring to class

• A notepad and pen
• Medium-sized scissors
• Any ideas or inspiration you'd like to discuss with the tutor