Rug Hooking Workshop for Beginners

Learn the traditional art of rug hooking with our handcraft short courses in Sydney!

Discover the creative and surprisingly versatile craft of rug hooking in this hands-on textile workshop. Using traditional hooky and proggy techniques, you'll transform recycled fabrics into richly textured handmade pieces while learning a sustainable craft that has been practised for generations.

Rug hooking combines creativity, craftsmanship, and mindful making. Once a practical way to repurpose worn clothing and fabric scraps, it has evolved into a vibrant textile art form used to create everything from rugs and wall hangings to cushions, bags, and decorative objects.

In this welcoming workshop, you'll learn two traditional rug hooking methods and explore the unique textures, colours, and effects each can achieve. Guided by an experienced tutor, you'll experiment with a variety of materials, develop your own designs, and begin creating two original textile projects.

Along the way, you'll discover how simple recycled materials can be transformed into beautiful, tactile works of art. Whether you're completely new to textile crafts or looking to expand your creative practice, this workshop offers a rewarding introduction to a sustainable and deeply satisfying craft.

Image credit: inspired by work created by past student Theresa Reynolds.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this Rug Hooking Workshop, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

• Creating textile pieces using traditional hooky and proggy rug hooking techniques
• Preparing and selecting fabrics for different creative outcomes
• Understanding how colour, texture, and material choices influence design
• Transferring designs onto backing fabrics
• Combining techniques to create visual depth and texture
• Finishing textile projects using methods appropriate to their intended use
• Developing confidence to continue rug hooking projects at home

Course content

What will be covered in this Rug Hooking Workshop?

During the workshop, participants will work with techniques and ideas such as:

Morning: Introduction and techniques

• Exploring the history and contemporary revival of rug hooking
• Understanding the differences between hooky and proggy techniques
• Preparing and cutting fabrics for different effects
• Experimenting with colour, texture, and fabric combinations
• Creating raised and low-profile surfaces
• Combining techniques to create dimensional and decorative effects
• Understanding which approaches best suit different project types

Afternoon: Design and finishing

• Designing your own textile project
• Creating and transferring pattern templates
• Working with backing fabrics
• Finishing edges using a range of techniques
• Understanding finishing methods for rugs, coasters, wall hangings, and decorative textiles
• Planning future projects and continuing your practice at home

Content may vary slightly depending on class pace, participant interests, and instructor approach.

Intended audience

Who is this Rug Hooking Workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for complete beginners as well as experienced makers interested in exploring a traditional textile craft. It will appeal to anyone interested in sustainable making, textile arts, slow craft practices, and creative reuse of materials.

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 during the workshop, including hooky and proggy tools.

Students will have the option to purchase their own tool set at checkout if they wish to continue their projects at home.

What to bring to class

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