Instructions for Making Area Rugs

Make long lengths of 1 1/2-inch-wide strips of all fabric by measuring and marking the edge of the fabrics, starting a cut with the scissors and ripping the fabric to make the strips.

Roll all fabric strips of each color into balls.

Attach three strips, one of each color, to the arm of an upholstered piece of furniture with a safety pin for stability during the braiding process. If desired, start with three strips of one color at a time; this will create a rug with the center one color and other colors forming large rings around it.

Braid the fabric strips. Add additional strips to each strand when needed by tacking with needle and thread. Continue braiding until all fabric strips have been incorporated into the braid.

Place the finished braid on a large tabletop or the floor and begin spiraling one end into a coil shape about 6 inches in diameter.

Thread the tapestry needle with 36 inches of carpet thread. Begin attaching the strips to each other in the center of the rug form, taking stitches on the top of the form, which will be the rug bottom.

Continue shaping the rug by spiraling the braid around the center piece and sewing it in place. Keep the spiral tight but not so much that it buckles.

Sew the braid end to the top of the rug when all of the braid has been sewn together. Flip the completed rug over.