How to Braid a Large Rag Rug

I have never tried to do this before but I want to give it a shot. I just cleaned out my aunts home since she is going into an assisted living place and she gave me her old extra blankets so I don't have to buy them. I just have to decide on what colors to use. I hope I can do this.

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Just to add to the other comments, when you are finishing the edge, cut the last strips narrower. This will cause a tapering effect to the braid, then you can tuck the ends under. Also, to get an oval shape, make the first length(before you turn it on itself) about 1/3 the size of the finished rug. If it's too long, you will have a runner instead of an oval rug. If you've never made a braided rug, read through some general instructions before beginning this.

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The previous poster makes a good point. It always helps to have the braid be held tight so you get even tension on the braid, otherwise, it can be too loose in spots or tight in others. Also, an option to hot gluing is the old fashioned way of sewing each coil - when it is smaller, a simple zigzag stitch on your machine, if the blanket or fabric you use isnt too thick, otherwise, you can use carpet thread - and a good thimble. Great project - perfect for a cold winter night!

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Just a couple of tips for making this type of rug. 1) When using a thick fabric (like a blanket) you can use narrower strips, like 1" wide. 2) Tack the beginning ends of the braid together - sew over the them a couple times back and forth. 3) Clamp down the beginning end of the braid, or put it under something heavy on a table top, to make it easier to do the braiding and help it come out smoother.

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