Wool Wonders: The Benefits of Wool Rugs
I started designing wool rugs four years ago so you would probably say that I am still a novice when it comes to hooking or punching a rug. I first learned the craft when I attended a weekend wool hooking workshop. I had no idea what to expect. I just told Steve I was heading to Louisiana to learn how to make a rug. He just sort of looked at me and said, “Ok…have fun…I’m going fishing”. So off we go in our separate ways and for myself…a little nervous but excited. I imagine I looked pretty silly to the seasoned ‘hookers’ who joined their friends for the weekend. I knew I was in trouble when I was pushed aside by women pulling wagons full of wool, frames, and tools to grab the best table in the room to set up shop for the long hours ahead. I found an empty chair, put down my small bag of wool applique ( I didn’t want to come empty handed) and waited thinking there would be some sort of introduction when all the other other ladies walked around hugging each other and showing off their latest projects. Well, needless to say, I had a lot to learn. And learn I did. These ladies put me under their wings and when I went home on Sunday I had an Oxford Punch Needle in my bag, a pattern, and some wool. I was in heaven and my rug making journey had begun.
Learning rug punching techniques is an everyday occurrence and new hints are added to my arsenal daily. One thing I have learned over these past four years is that it is key to appreciate the importance of high-quality tools, foundation fabrics, and the use of wool for strong and visually appealing results. Many will disagree insisting acrylic yarn is fine and much cheaper than wool. Which is true. Acrylic yarn is cheaper but be careful if you walk on a rug made with acrylic yarn. Chunky wool yarn is not easily found and most often it is only found in boutique shoppes or online. Rug punching or hooking is not an inexpensive craft. It takes hours to complete a rug, pillow, or wall hanging so why would you not want to use textiles that will endure over time.
Wool has been a staple textile for thousands of years, prized for its durability, warmth, and versatility. Today, wool rugs continue to be popular for their luxurious feel, timeless beauty, and exceptional performance. I have listed five points that I’ve learned about wool and why I continue to justify the use of wool on handmade rugs.
Durability: Wool fibers are naturally resilient, resisting wear and tear even under heavy foot traffic. Unlike synthetic materials that can pill or fray over time, wool rugs maintain their shape and appearance for years to come. We use our rugs. If I am going to spend the time punching them I want to enjoy them.
Insulation: Wool is a natural insulator, providing warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer. This makes wool rugs ideal for any climate, ensuring your feet stay comfortable throughout the year. We live in Florida. We have several of our rugs on the floor of our RV. We love the feel of them on cold nights and hot summer days. They are the best.
Resilience: Wool rugs are incredibly resilient, able to bounce back from dents and creases. If your rug gets wrinkled or flattened, simply give it a good shake or vacuuming, and it will quickly return to its original shape. this is really true. Just shake it off, and it comes back to life. Now I don’t use the vacuum on it. It could grab the threads so I do protect them from the vacuum clearner.
Sustainability: Wool is a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for rug making. Sheep naturally shed their wool, which can be harvested without harming the animals. Additionally, wool is biodegradable, meaning it decomposes naturally over time, reducing its environmental impact. By choosing wool rugs, you're supporting sustainable farming practices and minimizing your carbon footprint. Click the link and you can read all about sustainability. This means a lot us. But, we do make sure that the mills we purchase from go to farmers that take care of their animals.
Beauty and Variety: Wool yarn comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns, allowing you to create truly unique and personalized rugs. And if you can’t find it in the stores, get out the dye pan and have fun.
