Most of our customers hook using a traditional hooking method. To start rug hooking using this method, you'll need a few supplies to get started:
- A Rug Hooking Pattern: most rug hookers start with a pre-printed rug hooking pattern, but some also design and draw their own pattern before hooking their rug project. We offer both pre-printed designs, as well as rug booking backing or foundation cloth, if you choose to draw your own design. How can I find a rug hooking pattern?
- Wool and a Wool Cutter: you'll need a variety of wool colors to hook with, with each piece cut into strips (or noodles) for hooking. If you purchase wool fabric by the yard (or half, quarter or eighth), you'll also need a wool cutter to cut the wool into strips before you can hook with it. Because wool cutters can be expensive, we recommend that beginning rug hookers borrow a cutter from a member of a nearby rug hooking group or instructor. If you need help finding a group or instructor near you, feel free to reach out to us at patterns@rughook.com and let us know your city and state/province, and we can connect you with rug hookers in your area.
- A Rug Hooking Hook: rug hooking hooks are used to pull the strips of wool through the pattern backing, creating loops of wool on the top side of the pattern design. Rug hooks come in a variety of sizes and handles, so it's important to find a hook that is properly sized, and is also comfortable for you to use. You can learn more about the rug hooking hooks and sizes here: Rug Hooking Cutter Sizes
- A Rug Hooking Frame: in order to pull the wool strips through the pattern backing, you'll need to first secure the pattern with a frame. Frames come in a variety of styles and features. Most beginners start with a simple hoop frame (often like the ones used for cross-stitch), or a basic lap frame, that is specifically designed for rug hooking. Experienced rug hookers often have multiple frames for various uses, accumulated through the years, including more elaborate free-standing frames.
- Scissors: finally, you'll need a paid of high quality fabric scissors to trim the ends of the wool strips once you've hooked with the strip. The scissors help ensure the ends are the same height as the rest of your hooked loops.