Lucy Neatby and
Hetty Van Gurp applied for a grant from Nova Scotia's Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage to share their love of rug hooking with Big Tancook islanders. We were supplied with hooks, hoops, linen burlap and wool and shown how to do every step of the dyeing, cutting and hooking processes.
Beginning with natural wool fabric, small pieces are scrunched up for a mottled effect or laid flat for more even color. Protein dyes are dissolved and poured over the wet fabric, it is poked and prodded as it is heated, and when the color has been absorbed and is judged to be good, it is set with vinegar. The Magic Carpet colors are excellent in their variety and quality and look wonderful whether pale or saturated.
Fabric can be cut into strips with scissors, but using a machine like this one made by
Bolivar Cutter makes even-width strips in a fraction of the time. There are three size choices, but I prefer the smallest to keep finer lines and details.
There are hooks made for rug hooking with straight and bent shafts and different handles, but crochet hooks and ground nails can also be used. Once the right size and shape is found, the hook plunges up and down through the burlap and catches the tail of fabric held underneath with ease and speed. You can pull different loop heights for variation and progress in straight lines or wander in beautiful serpentine squiggles for interesting textures.
Seeing the work of skilled hookers like
Lucy, Hetty,
Verta Rodenhiser and guest artists Sherry Chandler and Terry LaBlanc-Bridge has been inspiring. The love of rug hooking has definitely gotten into my blood and will stay a part of my creative life. Setting aside time to get together with crafty and curious people to share this experience is something I look forward to.