The Rug Hook Book: Techniques, Projects, and Patterns for This Easy, Traditional Craft

I used to do very small counted-cross stitch for a hobby. First, my return to college interrupted it, then my eyesight got to be a hindrance to this 'artistic' endeavor. The final straw came when I developed peripheral neuropathy that makes it very hard to handle the small needles. So I went looking for something I could do that would take me away from my sometimes depressing bioethics/disability work, and my always depressing attempt to finish my Ph.D. in science education. My sister and I both reached a consensus that rug hooking would be the answer, as it is a rather large format of crafting.This book provides a lot of information on how to start, where to get the implements, what to use, etc. Even though I enjoyed looking at what others have done, the rugs shown were a bit too abstract and simplistic for my taste. I'd rather hook something along the line of fine art when I get along far enough. The photos are great, and this is an easily accessible book for beginners.Karen Sadler

I found this book very exciting and has me ready to get into hooking rugs. It really covers it all from materials, dying fabric, choosing fabric, where to buy supplies, great designs for both traditional and modern, and good information on finishing projects. It gives lots of ideas for other, non-traditional materials that can be added to give your rug texture and that personal touch.If you are looking for a fantastic book on this subject look no further this covers it all. I just can't say enough. If you want to learn about rug hooking and you only buy one book.....this should be the one....it has it all! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This book gives an overview of how to hook, the use of color and dyeing, and offers patterns in several styles, from primitive to traditional. It's a great book for a rug hooker's collection. My first and second rugs are from this book! The only drawback is that the formulas for dyeing are a little brief.