Honey Bee Hive prints patterns on three foundation cloths (also known as backing materials), they are in order of popularity:
- Linen: 100% flax, 13 x 13 count , our recommended backing. About 80% of our customers purchase this backing. It can be used for both primitive and fine rug hooking. It often looks and feels like burlap, but it is a much stronger backing because the flax threads are longer than in traditional burlap.
- Rug Warp: 100% cotton, 13 x 13 count, is a heavier backing. It can be used for both fine and primitive rug hooking. About 15% of our customers purchase this backing, especially for larger designs, as it is most cost effective than linen.
- Monks Cloth: A popular cotton backing that is lightweight and soft. It can has a double-thread weave, much like that of a cross-stitch pattern. Therefore it has a 24 x 26 thread count. It is not intended for footstool patterns, or other multi-dimensional projects as it has a tendency to stretch, so rug hookers have to be careful not to pack their loops too tightly when using this backing. Less than 5% of our customers order this backing.
We also offer these backings for sale, by the yard, and as custom sized and serged pieces.