Braided Altar Rug

Braided rug making instructions: use those old fabric scraps!

In order to create your own braided rag rug, you will need only a few
supplies. The most important of these supplies is a variety of leftover
scrap material. The scraps can be of any type and any pattern. The only
requirement is that the scraps must measure at least two inches wide.
Scraps wider than two inches should be cut into two inch strips and set
aside for easy use. For those who don't have many scraps, I suggest
checking with area thrift stores before purchasing new fabric. Often,
scraps are donated and can be bought for very little cash. You will also
need thread in either a clear nylon or a color to match the general mood
of the fabrics chosen, and a thick, sturdy needle (a curved upholstery
needle works best, but any thick needle will work).

Putting it All Together

The first task necessary before braiding can commence is to prepare the
strips for braiding. Make sure you have cut all fabric into two inch
strips. Then sew each strip together end-to-end with right sides facing
until you have three long strips. The longer the strips, the larger the
rug will be, and vice versa. You may use more than three strips if you
are familiar with the process. If you are worried about frays along the
cut ends, spray the strips with a spray adhesive or Fraycheck. In the
event that neither of these are available to you, clear fingernail
polish will also work when applied to the edges; however, this method takes
a great deal of time and patience. It's perfectly okay to braid the
strips with no treatment. The frays that eventually evidence themselves
add character to the rug and add more of a country flair to the finished
work.

Next, tie the three strips together. Place something heavy on the tied
end (or have someone hold it for you) to make braiding easier. Begin
braiding using the method most familiar to you. You can remove the heavy
object (or release your helper from holding on to the other end) when
you feel you've braided enough to prevent the tied end from twisting as
you go.

When you have all your strips braided, sew the loose ends together.
Carefully coil the braid on the floor, starting from the center and
working your way outward. For a circular rug, simply coil in a circle,
starting with a very small coil. For an oval, lay approximately one foot of
braided strips along the floor. Holding the
strip down firmly, begin the coil around the one foot braid. Feel free
to experiment with other shapes until you find the one that suits you
best.

When you have finally shaped the rug into the pattern you desire, start
sewing the rows of coil to each other, keeping all stitches on the top
side of the rug. Once secured tightly, fasten off.

If you wish to add a non-slip surface to your finished rug, you have
several options. The two simplest (and cheapest) ways are paint and
rubber backing. By adding designs with Puff Paint (found in the craft aisle
of your local department store), you create a unique surface that will
grip most vinyl and hardwood floors. Just be sure the paint is
completely dry before placing the rug on the floor, or your rug may actually
stick. An alternative method would be to buy some of the rubber backing
used in drains, cabinets, and counters. Your local Dollar General or
Family Dollar will usually carry these at a very reasonable price. Use
liquid Super Glue to adhere the rubber to the rug. Trim along the edges as
necessary.

That's it! Enjoy your rug!