Rafter-four Designs
Rugmaker's Homestead
the resource for traditional rug makers since 1984
broomstick.html
Broomstick Rugs
by Diana Blake Gray
Master Rugmaker
Broomstick rugs actually did use an old broom handle as the main tool. The technique is pretty basic, but the rugs remained undocumented
until my Rugmaker’s Sampler in 1985 (now out of print, replaced by a bulletin).
The rugs typically use a fabric strip as a “warp”
which is looped over the broom handle or dowel, then a second strip of fabric is draw through the loops. After the publication of
the directions for these rugs, various crafty publications jumped on the bandwagon and put out directions for “broomstick weaving”.
There is a significant difference with weaving and broomstick construction, and the warp used for woven rugs are difficult to work
with, and the result is generally loose and impractical.
A broomstick rug in progress
The front appearance of a broomstick rug can be mistaken for weaving, but the reverse is quite different—appearing as rows of knots—so for identification be sure to examine both sides carefully.
Broomstick rug, front texture
Broomstick Rug, back texture
Publications in our catalog
Rugmakers Bulletin #3: Broomstick Rugs
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