Traditional 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.

Once developed as a practical way to repurpose worn clothing and fabric scraps, rug hooking has evolved into a vibrant textile art form. Today it's used to create everything from rugs and wall hangings to cushions, bags and contemporary fibre art, combining creativity, craftsmanship and sustainable making.

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. Relaxing, creative and deeply rewarding, this workshop offers a wonderful introduction to a traditional craft that continues to inspire contemporary textile artists.

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
• Selecting and preparing recycled fabrics for rug hooking projects
• Understanding how colour, texture and material choices influence design
• Transferring simple designs onto backing fabrics
• Combining techniques to create texture and visual interest
• Applying appropriate finishing techniques to completed projects
• Developing the 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 with no previous rug hooking experience
• Textile artists and craft enthusiasts looking to learn a traditional fibre craft
• Makers interested in sustainable and creative reuse of materials
• Quilters, embroiderers and textile crafters wanting to expand their skills
• Anyone who enjoys slow, mindful and creative handcrafts

No prior experience is required.

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