How to Make Chenille & Denim Rag Rug
Leftover denim and fabric scraps make a homey rag rug in this craft project. Alternate different washes and colors throughout the rag rug for a calico, patchwork effect, or use the same colors for a monochromatic scheme. This design is similar to rugs used in early pioneer culture to out leftover fabric scraps to good use.
Things You'll Need
- Denim Fabric Scraps
- Chenille Fabric Scraps
- Scissors
- Needle
- Navy Blue Thread
- Sewing Machine
- Straight Pins
- Fabric Glue
- Rug Backing
Instructions
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Making a Chenille and Denim Rag Rug
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1
Cut the denim and chenille scraps into strips about 2 inches thick. Some strips will be longer based on the original size of the scrap. Sew two denim strips together at the ends to make a longer strip. Continue with all the denim scraps until you have one long strip several meters long. Use hand sewing techniques or a sewing machine to attach the strips.
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2
Sew the trimmed chenille strips together into one long strip several meters long. Make a third long strip of chenille or denim based on the amount of leftover scraps. Lay the three scrap strips parallel on a workspace.
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3
Line the three ends together and sew several horizontal rows to secure them at the top. Braid the strips together. Fold the right strip over the middle one. Then place the left one over the middle. Continue alternating until you have braided the entire length of the scrap strips. Sew the end of the strips together to secure the braid.
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4
Take one end of the braided strip and begin folding it in on itself. Fold the end down about 2 inches and pin it. Wrap the length of the strip around in a circular spiral. Each time you wrap the outside perimeter, use pins to secure that roll. Continue with the next wrap and pin again. Continue until you have an oval of the braided strip. Use a needle and thread to sew the oval securely. Loop stitches through the sides of the strip as they touch all along the spiral.
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5
Remove all the pins from the rug spiral. Lay the rug on a piece of rug backing and trace the outside. Cut out the shape from the rug backing. Use fabric glue to attach the rug backing to the bottom of the oval rug. Allow it to dry.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Braid the strips tightly for a more secure rug.
