I miss those days where everyone created together. You are so right about love what you made. Not every fabric color you choose is what someone else likes. Be kind
I have the first Rag rug with the stair step I did years earlier as a beginner and I have many other ones now after Learning the craft from Wonderful Teachers like you ! Learning is a process as well as the craft. We progress as we learn more and more. I’m still learning more tips as I grow in this craft, but I never blame the teacher or the get mad at my beginner skills. I grow with it 💕🤗 Have a Blessed Day !
I haven't made a rug yet, but soon! Loved all those tips, I'll keep them in mind! So sad, that you had to say that about social media, it's true, though....smh...why do people have to compare, or be mean? I know the rugs I will make won't be perfect. We are all in a learning process, and there will always be people ahead of us, or behind us, right? If my family doesn't want my imperfect creations, I have a pups and kitties who will!🤣 God bless you, you are so caring.
WOW! ... it feels so good to know others agree! I'm not striving for perfection .. never will. My goal is to preserve this AMAZING art of Rag Rugs to as many like-minded friends as I possibly can! It brings me great joy to meet others who share my love for this craft! Thank you once again Leighanne, for taking the time to watch & to reach out!
Your #1 tip is awesome! It really is too easy to be disheartened with your creation if you compare it to others and or new techniques. Enjoy the process. Embrace and enhance your skills and love your labours. I’m a novice at several crafts and your well stated advice is so true. Thank you❤️
That conversation I had with her still bothers me. She was SO "disheartened" - I felt horrible. Thank you for reaching out & letting me know the tip was well received. I hope for many. Thank you Cheryl, for writing!
Loved this video, especially tip #1. And, I totally agree with you. Just a little side note…. my daughter loves the ‘stair step’. She says she looks at that and knows that it was hand made just for her with love 😊 Great job, Lora!
Your daughter is awesome!! I love her perspective! 1` My favorite tip is definitely #1 too. I still tear up a bit remembering the phone conversation I had. Never felt so deflated in all my years making rugs. Your message makes up for it though. Thanks for sharing, Scarlett!
Every piece is unique and you should be proud that you attempted and completed it! Every piece is also a learning experience. I was an avid crocheter, loved embroidery, although it always needed to be stamped - LOL! But because of something that went undiagnosed when I was 17, I am now profoundly blind. I still attempt things with the help of powerful magnifiers from our Blind Institute, have a computer that reads to me, see things at 400%. I am even attempting to sew my first quilt through a class from another US company who also had fabulous videos and made me believe "I could do that"! My sister, who is a quilter, is also helping me, we sew at her house. I have so much against me at this point but I also used to do so much that the desire is always there. Never give up over something you didn't know at the time. Taking it apart is an option but I would be too proud of it and I would continue on learning as you go. Lora's contest gallery she has left up is beautiful inspiration and I loved looking at all the colors and patterns.
You are a great teacher. I am so happy now l can after 50 years go back making rugs again with your fantastic help. I would love to hear from you again. God bless you and your company.
Thank you so much. You are a great teacher. Love all your creations. Make it your own, that’s what makes your work and time SPECIAL. People please do not judge others.
Thank you for your tips. I subscribed to your channel from New Zealand because I liked your number #1 tip. Of course, I like your creations and tips you share. I also make rugs from scraps of my sewing and old clothes as I'm a big fan of recycling.
Thanks so much...I kept digging and found my answer on another of your videos. But...I appreciate your reply and all of your very 'well thought out' videos. You make it very clear and easy. Again, many thanks!
¡Hola! Me encanta la idea de las alfombras para gatos! ¡¡SÍ!! Una vez que el Scotchgard que ha aplicado esté seco, ¡su alfombra será segura para mascotas y niños!
Hello, Tracy! I sure can! You can find the Fabric Rolls on our website! We sell 16 different fabric (one of which is "Teal"! Each roll is 6 yards of continuous 2" wide fabric, 100% cotton, & Bias Cut (no threads!). Thanks for asking! Here's a quick link - just click on "Fabric" & then "Broadcloth Solid Fabric Rolls"! www.ragstorugs-bylora.com/
Hello, Carolyn! Thank you for reaching out! A "Stairstep" is a term we use to describe the step up look when we are transitioning from one row color to yet another and that transition gives the appearance of a stairstep - the fabric color "stepping up" at that point. For those sensitive to that look, there is a technique that I teach on our video! Here is a link to a video you might enjoy on "Avoiding the Stairstep"! th-cam.com/video/oCQq85pp1yw/w-d-xo.html
Hello, Judy! ALL fabrics can be used in rug-making & I have used just about every kind there is - stretchy & non-stretchy. But with stretchy fabrics comes a common challenge ... controlling tension. The stretchier the fabric the harder it can be to control the tension particularly for beginners. However, don't let that dissuade you from using your rolls! Just be attentive to your personal stitch gauge & not pulling the fabric too tightly as you progress through your rug. Practice is the key to consistent tension! I have been "practicing" for 30+ years now!! LOL We have a video on this channel on your "personal stitch gauge" you might check out! And you might also check out our website for many more fabric rolls. 16 new exciting colors are due in mid-June!! www.ragstorugs-bylora.com/ Hoping this helps & that you will stay in touch!
Hello, Karen!! Happy Tuesday! No, you do not. I use all types & blends of fabrics in my rugs. SOoooooo many amazing fabrics out there that work up fabulously in our rugs. Just be attentive to the weight & stretch of the fabric you're using. The heavier the fabric - the narrower the strip. The lighter the fabric - the wider the strip. And with regard to stretch - jersey for instance. Be attentive to your tension. Because it stretches a lot, it can sometimes be a challenge for beginners to maintain their tension! Thanks for asking!
Hello! So happy you've reached out! Your question is a favorite of mine! The technique we teach for our crocheted & amish knot (toothbrush) rugs assures your rug will ALWAYS lay flat & be perfectly shaped! Always!! I would like to invite you to watch this video! And stay in touch okay? I'm always here for you! th-cam.com/video/JU94FdKFdDk/w-d-xo.html
I am a beginner and frustrated. I have done some round rugs but I'm attempting a heart one and I've stopped and started the video at least 50x and I cannot tell where you are putting the needle. You are great but sooo fast that it's hard to see exactly where my mistakes are. I don't want to give up but I'm getting frustrated and overwhelmed! I need help! 6:04
Good Morning Stacie!! I am soooooo sorry I wasn't there for you yesterday when you first reached out. I was out of the office (go figure!) & just now getting caught up. First of all, THANK YOU for watching & reaching out! Many would've given up before asking for help. Second & most important, PLEASE do not give up ... please! I feel your frustration & I want desperately to help you. Without sitting right beside you & seeing your work, it's a bit challenging for me. So I could use your help if you're able to provide more information. I will say, you have taken on an advanced crochet project with the jute heart rug. One that requires knowing 5 stitches & one that is more geared for someone who has crocheted a while longer than you. As a beginner, I can understand how quickly you became somewhat overwhelmed. I wish I could sit right beside you & help you beyond your frustration. I'm frustrated not knowing how to help you from here. Would it help you to review the 5 stitches I've used to crochet the heart rug? I can share a short video that might help you? Also, I know you are intent on crocheting the heart rug, but would it help to practice on another shape first? Maybe an oval? No doubt that's not what you want to hear because you REALLY want to make the heart but oval rugs are much easier & you'll fall in love crocheting that shape using our easy to follow & popular crochet "cheat sheet". Here's a link to the 5 stitches review video: th-cam.com/video/oGPo3ZcnXe8/w-d-xo.html I'll be checking back in with you to stay in touch with your progress & hope to answer any questions you share. Please don't give up!! Hang in there, okay?
Hello, Judy! Great question! A stairstep can occur in your rug when you are transitioning from one color to another color (sometimes a solid band of color within your rug or perhaps a scalloped border). It looks like a stairstep and can be noticeable in the end result. A video on this channel shares a method to avoid that if it concerns you! Here's a link to it! th-cam.com/video/oCQq85pp1yw/w-d-xo.html
Hello, Jeanine! Great question! Washing your fabrics in advance of starting your project accomplishes 2 things: First - Store bought fabrics are often heavy with starch. I prefer to wash these before starting my projects. Sometimes I just rinse them in my washing machine and then hang to dry. I particularly like hanging them on my clothes line outdoors. In minutes they are dry and its as if Mother Nature pressed them for me! Very easy then to fold & cut into strips. Second - Shrinkage. This is only a minor issue for me particularly if the fabric being used has a lot of polyester. 100% cotton fabrics can shrink with the initial washing however, it doesn't affect your tension nearly as much as some assume. I've rarely washed my fabrics for this reason. If you are using recycled goods (bed sheets, duvets etc) I generally wash them first but depending on their circumstances it isn't always necessary.
@@RagstoRugsbyLora Thank you! I just bought my fabric. I’m constructing a cork board surface for pinning it down. Awaiting my needle coming Saturday. I ordered one of your cards. Then I can start my 1st project! I’m so excited!!
Couldn't find a video on how to sew strips together. Maybe you don't sew them...just incorporate them into the rug while you are crocheting. I'll keep looking...unless you could tell me where to look for that information. Thanks!
Hello, Darlene! The preferred method is a "no sew" technique. VERY easy & it doesn't require a sewing machine or tedious hand stitching. I'm going to share a video that shows you how. Unfortunately, it's a bit grainy as I made it many years ago, but it explains it well. A new, fresh video is planned for our channel! Watch for it! Here's that link! >> th-cam.com/video/d5pN6Za3k34/w-d-xo.html
I miss those days where everyone created together. You are so right about love what you made. Not every fabric color you choose is what someone else likes. Be kind
My exact thoughts, Melanie! Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely
I have the first Rag rug with the stair step I did years earlier as a beginner and I have many other ones now after Learning the craft from Wonderful Teachers like you ! Learning is a process as well as the craft. We progress as we learn more and more. I’m still learning more tips as I grow in this craft, but I never blame the teacher or the get mad at my beginner skills. I grow with it 💕🤗 Have a Blessed Day !
Beautifully written, Marie! I got goosebumps reading your words. Thank youuuuuu!
I haven't made a rug yet, but soon! Loved all those tips, I'll keep them in mind! So sad, that you had to say that about social media, it's true, though....smh...why do people have to compare, or be mean? I know the rugs I will make won't be perfect. We are all in a learning process, and there will always be people ahead of us, or behind us, right? If my family doesn't want my imperfect creations, I have a pups and kitties who will!🤣 God bless you, you are so caring.
WOW! ... it feels so good to know others agree! I'm not striving for perfection .. never will. My goal is to preserve this AMAZING art of Rag Rugs to as many like-minded friends as I possibly can! It brings me great joy to meet others who share my love for this craft! Thank you once again Leighanne, for taking the time to watch & to reach out!
Your #1 tip is awesome!
It really is too easy to be disheartened with your creation if you compare it to others and or new techniques. Enjoy the process. Embrace and enhance your skills and love your labours. I’m a novice at several crafts and your well stated advice is so true. Thank you❤️
That conversation I had with her still bothers me. She was SO "disheartened" - I felt horrible. Thank you for reaching out & letting me know the tip was well received. I hope for many. Thank you Cheryl, for writing!
Loved this video, especially tip #1. And, I totally agree with you. Just a little side note…. my daughter loves the ‘stair step’. She says she looks at that and knows that it was hand made just for her with love 😊 Great job, Lora!
Your daughter is awesome!! I love her perspective! 1`
My favorite tip is definitely #1 too. I still tear up a bit remembering the phone conversation I had. Never felt so deflated in all my years making rugs. Your message makes up for it though. Thanks for sharing, Scarlett!
Every piece is unique and you should be proud that you attempted and completed it! Every piece is also a learning experience. I was an avid crocheter, loved embroidery, although it always needed to be stamped - LOL! But because of something that went undiagnosed when I was 17, I am now profoundly blind. I still attempt things with the help of powerful magnifiers from our Blind Institute, have a computer that reads to me, see things at 400%. I am even attempting to sew my first quilt through a class from another US company who also had fabulous videos and made me believe "I could do that"! My sister, who is a quilter, is also helping me, we sew at her house. I have so much against me at this point but I also used to do so much that the desire is always there. Never give up over something you didn't know at the time. Taking it apart is an option but I would be too proud of it and I would continue on learning as you go. Lora's contest gallery she has left up is beautiful inspiration and I loved looking at all the colors and patterns.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this! I had goosebumps reading your beautiful words! Thank you for sharing. You're AMAZING!!
You are a great teacher. I am so happy now l can after 50 years go back making rugs again with your fantastic help. I would love to hear from you again. God bless you and your company.
Thank you so much! WOW! What a day brightener reading your words! So happy you found us, Darlene!!
That was absolutely the best slip knot demonstration I have ever seen!!! Now, I can figure it out!!!
YAYAYAYAY!! :)
Thank you so much. You are a great teacher. Love all your creations. Make it your own, that’s what makes your work and time SPECIAL. People please do not judge others.
You're welcome, Elaine! Thank YOU!! And thanks for your comments ... we're all in this together!
Thank you so much for the tips! I'm crocheting my first rug and this is VERY helpful.
You are so welcome, Heidi! Happy rugging!!
Thank you for your tips. I subscribed to your channel from New Zealand because I liked your number #1 tip. Of course, I like your creations and tips you share. I also make rugs from scraps of my sewing and old clothes as I'm a big fan of recycling.
New Zealand!! Way cool Hopa! Thank you for reaching out & sharing! Hoping you'll stay in touch!
All I can say to you is WOW!
Awhhhh ... thank you VERY much! Happy to know you enjoyed it! (I still tear up thinking about #1)
Thanks so much...I kept digging and found my answer on another of your videos. But...I appreciate your reply and all of your very 'well thought out' videos. You make it very clear and easy. Again, many thanks!
You are very welcome, Darlene!
Excellent ❤
Thank you SO much!!
Thank you! 👍🐶❤️
You're very welcome, Louise! I'm happy you enjoyed the video!
Wonderful tips!
Thank you!!
You are so right.
Thanks, Christine!
U r amazing, just found u. Love you already❤
Ohhhh Rose, thank YOU!! I hope you will stay in touch!
Thanks... a lot of very useful tips. Yes I really agree.. TH-cam vas been my lifesaver this past year and everyone has their own tastes... 🌼🌼
Hello, Marie! You're very welcome! We hope you'll stay in touch!
A lot of interesting points especially the number 1.😃
Thank you, Carmen! #1 is my personal favorite too & I remind myself it every day!
Thank you so much for all your tips. #1 is the best.
You're so welcome! (I agree!)
Love all your tips!!!! I have made my first 3 rugs and loving it!!
Thank you!! And way to go, Claudette! Hope your love for rug making becomes a lifetime love like it has for me!!
You are an excellent instructor. Thank you I have learned so much and appreciate you.
Oh wow! THank you for your kind words! Much appreciated!!
Great vieo thanks
Thank you! Thanks for watching! Hope you'll stay in touch!
Thank u
You're very welcome! Thank YOU for watching!
❤❤❤
Thank you!
Please tell me how to order your cards. I am so happy to have found your videos. Best ever !!!!! Thank you
Lydia, THANK YOU!!!
Saludos. Yo quiero hacerle a mis gatos alfombras. ¿Es seguro para ellos usar el Scochguard?
¡Hola! Me encanta la idea de las alfombras para gatos! ¡¡SÍ!! Una vez que el Scotchgard que ha aplicado esté seco, ¡su alfombra será segura para mascotas y niños!
Hello Lora, can you tell me where to buy or what the name of the large solid roll you use in this video? Its sort of a teal green.
Hello, Tracy! I sure can! You can find the Fabric Rolls on our website! We sell 16 different fabric (one of which is "Teal"! Each roll is 6 yards of continuous 2" wide fabric, 100% cotton, & Bias Cut (no threads!). Thanks for asking!
Here's a quick link - just click on "Fabric" & then "Broadcloth Solid Fabric Rolls"!
www.ragstorugs-bylora.com/
What is a stair-step?
Hello, Carolyn! Thank you for reaching out! A "Stairstep" is a term we use to describe the step up look when we are transitioning from one row color to yet another and that transition gives the appearance of a stairstep - the fabric color "stepping up" at that point. For those sensitive to that look, there is a technique that I teach on our video! Here is a link to a video you might enjoy on "Avoiding the Stairstep"! th-cam.com/video/oCQq85pp1yw/w-d-xo.html
Can stretchy fabric be used?
Hello, Judy!
ALL fabrics can be used in rug-making & I have used just about every kind there is - stretchy & non-stretchy. But with stretchy fabrics comes a common challenge ... controlling tension. The stretchier the fabric the harder it can be to control the tension particularly for beginners. However, don't let that dissuade you from using your rolls!
Just be attentive to your personal stitch gauge & not pulling the fabric too tightly as you progress through your rug. Practice is the key to consistent tension! I have been "practicing" for 30+ years now!! LOL
We have a video on this channel on your "personal stitch gauge" you might check out! And you might also check out our website for many more fabric rolls. 16 new exciting colors are due in mid-June!! www.ragstorugs-bylora.com/
Hoping this helps & that you will stay in touch!
Another question please, do you have to have 100% cotton fabric for rugs?
Hello, Karen!! Happy Tuesday! No, you do not. I use all types & blends of fabrics in my rugs. SOoooooo many amazing fabrics out there that work up fabulously in our rugs. Just be attentive to the weight & stretch of the fabric you're using. The heavier the fabric - the narrower the strip. The lighter the fabric - the wider the strip. And with regard to stretch - jersey for instance. Be attentive to your tension. Because it stretches a lot, it can sometimes be a challenge for beginners to maintain their tension! Thanks for asking!
How do you keep your oval rugs from curling up on ends
Hello! So happy you've reached out! Your question is a favorite of mine! The technique we teach for our crocheted & amish knot (toothbrush) rugs assures your rug will ALWAYS lay flat & be perfectly shaped! Always!!
I would like to invite you to watch this video! And stay in touch okay? I'm always here for you!
th-cam.com/video/JU94FdKFdDk/w-d-xo.html
I am a beginner and frustrated. I have done some round rugs but I'm attempting a heart one and I've stopped and started the video at least 50x and I cannot tell where you are putting the needle. You are great but sooo fast that it's hard to see exactly where my mistakes are. I don't want to give up but I'm getting frustrated and overwhelmed! I need help! 6:04
Good Morning Stacie!! I am soooooo sorry I wasn't there for you yesterday when you first reached out. I was out of the office (go figure!) & just now getting caught up. First of all, THANK YOU for watching & reaching out! Many would've given up before asking for help.
Second & most important, PLEASE do not give up ... please! I feel your frustration & I want desperately to help you. Without sitting right beside you & seeing your work, it's a bit challenging for me. So I could use your help if you're able to provide more information.
I will say, you have taken on an advanced crochet project with the jute heart rug. One that requires knowing 5 stitches & one that is more geared for someone who has crocheted a while longer than you.
As a beginner, I can understand how quickly you became somewhat overwhelmed. I wish I could sit right beside you & help you beyond your frustration. I'm frustrated not knowing how to help you from here.
Would it help you to review the 5 stitches I've used to crochet the heart rug? I can share a short video that might help you? Also, I know you are intent on crocheting the heart rug, but would it help to practice on another shape first? Maybe an oval? No doubt that's not what you want to hear because you REALLY want to make the heart but oval rugs are much easier & you'll fall in love crocheting that shape using our easy to follow & popular crochet "cheat sheet".
Here's a link to the 5 stitches review video:
th-cam.com/video/oGPo3ZcnXe8/w-d-xo.html
I'll be checking back in with you to stay in touch with your progress & hope to answer any questions you share.
Please don't give up!! Hang in there, okay?
What is the stair step?
Hello, Judy! Great question! A stairstep can occur in your rug when you are transitioning from one color to another color (sometimes a solid band of color within your rug or perhaps a scalloped border). It looks like a stairstep and can be noticeable in the end result. A video on this channel shares a method to avoid that if it concerns you! Here's a link to it! th-cam.com/video/oCQq85pp1yw/w-d-xo.html
Hi, do I wash all fabric before I start?
Hello, Jeanine! Great question!
Washing your fabrics in advance of starting your project accomplishes 2 things: First - Store bought fabrics are often heavy with starch. I prefer to wash these before starting my projects. Sometimes I just rinse them in my washing machine and then hang to dry. I particularly like hanging them on my clothes line outdoors. In minutes they are dry and its as if Mother Nature pressed them for me! Very easy then to fold & cut into strips.
Second - Shrinkage. This is only a minor issue for me particularly if the fabric being used has a lot of polyester. 100% cotton fabrics can shrink with the initial washing however, it doesn't affect your tension nearly as much as some assume. I've rarely washed my fabrics for this reason.
If you are using recycled goods (bed sheets, duvets etc) I generally wash them first but depending on their circumstances it isn't always necessary.
@@RagstoRugsbyLora Thank you! I just bought my fabric. I’m constructing a cork board surface for pinning it down. Awaiting my needle coming Saturday. I ordered one of your cards. Then I can start my 1st project! I’m so excited!!
Jeanine, thank you for your order! I hope it reaches you VERY quickly! I'm excited FOR you!!
Couldn't find a video on how to sew strips together. Maybe you don't sew them...just incorporate them into the rug while you are crocheting. I'll keep looking...unless you could tell me where to look for that information. Thanks!
Hello, Darlene! The preferred method is a "no sew" technique. VERY easy & it doesn't require a sewing machine or tedious hand stitching. I'm going to share a video that shows you how. Unfortunately, it's a bit grainy as I made it many years ago, but it explains it well. A new, fresh video is planned for our channel! Watch for it!
Here's that link! >> th-cam.com/video/d5pN6Za3k34/w-d-xo.html
💌💌💌🌷🌷🌷💐💐💐
Love your tips but FYI the scotch guard tip is made of PFAS which are forever chemicals that are very bad for the environment and for your health.
Thank you, Kelle! ... And thank you for the information. Good to know!
Can you make a rug from a giant teddy bear?
Hello, Krista! I have to admit I've never been stumped with a question about rug-making. But yours has me stumped! LOL Hmmm ... more info please?
@@RagstoRugsbyLora I was thinking about destuffing the body and keeping the head stuffed. I can pay for the bear/ provide it
❤❤❤❤
Thank you, Cheryl!