About Latch Hook Kit

History

• Rug hooking was developed in the early 19th century when mill weavers were allowed to collect leftover pieces of yarn useless to the mill. The weavers would take the pieces home and weave them through a backing. Rug hooking in America developed in 19th Century New England and Canada. Early on it was done by impoverished people who created their own rugs by weaving together whatever scraps of material they had. Considered a craft of the poor it was never written about but was referred to as a country craft, being a derogatory term of the day. Latch hooking is a newer, different style of rug making than the traditional hooked or punched rugs. Pre-cut strips of yarn using one strip per knot forms an open pile of rug similar to a shag rug.

Function

• Latch hook kits are used for pillows, rugs, decorative wall coverings and come in a variety of designs. The latch hooked rug can be used anywhere in the house and not only serves as a decorative piece, but is functional. Latch hooked pillows are also decorative, but make a pleasant addition to any room. This type of hooking creates texture and warmth when used as a floor cover or home decor.

Features

• Latch hook kits include canvas, pre-cut yarn strands and a design chart. All you need is a latch hook and bias binding for the finish work. Hooks have plastic or wood handles. Some hooks are straight while others are bent. Read the kit packaging to see what type of hook is recommended for the project. Kits come in a variety of sizes ranging from eight by eight inch squares to 20 by 27 inches or larger depending on the project. Design subjects can range from animals, floral, scenic, holidays, to Americana and more. There are even latch hook kits for children.

Benefits

• You will learn a new craft that can take you beyond the standard design chart to making your own designs and working up the color scheme to make the design work.
  Kits teach children dexterity and coordination as well shows them how to follow a chart and instructions. These kits are a confidence builder for all ages. By starting off with a simple kit, you can move on to more challenging projects as will children who take an interest in latch hooking.

Potential

• As you move on to other kit projects, you may consider other rug hooking or latch hooking projects that are not in kit form. A wonderful possibility for latch hook projects is using a photograph for a design or by using any leftover yarn from other projects to create a contemporary pattern.
  Craft instructors with many years of experience teaching to adults and children of all ages and levels suggest that when people, no matter what age, try something knew they are scared, but it isn't long before they master the technique and become proficient with practice.