Penny Rugs

Penny rugs have a long history in the western civilization today they can be found almost in every state and house hold throughout the United States.  Most people will easily be fooled by the name penny rug however this is not an item for the floor its colorful designs are perfect for table tops, pillowcases, sheets as well as beds. Penny rugs are most often times made from wool they are excellent for the colder months offering much comfort for family and friends.

In this article will discuss how to make your own penny rug.

Before making a penny rug you will need all the materials necessary. the first thing you will need is 100 percent wool trying visiting a thrift store where you can get bargains on damaged wool sweaters these will go a long way in the creation of your penny rug. A pair of scissors as well as a ruler is also necessary for cutting straight lines you will also need non-fusible interfacing and black Sharpie marker.

Now you need to choose the pattern you find most adorable not to despair you can literally find hundred of patters on the internet just type in a search engine penny rug patterns and you are good to go most of which are free of cost. After copying pattern of your choice you will need to increase the size, this can be done using any graphic display program after which you will have to print and then trace it onto the non-fusible interfacing using black Sharpie marker wool felt.

After tracing out your patter you will need to cut out the pieces. Using the edge of a marked line will greatly aid in cutting the pattern out accurately it's best if patterns are cut from the outside edge as some times pattern will require additional space to sew.

After completion the removal of the pattern its time to fix the patter to your wool felt this is the perfect time to make use of those old sweaters you bought form the thrift sore plus if you have old wool items at home this is also usable.  Is also recommended that you wash these items first in hot water and them cold this will cause the wool to become full giving  your penny rug a frayed look.

Now its time to cut patterns starting with circles of this is really up to you can also choose half moons and stars.

Center your pattern; ensure that the pattern is at even distances from the edges of the felt this will give the design a balanced look. Sew the edges of the pattern using button hole stitches.

Add varying decorations around the pattern of your choice sewing using button hole stitches always use matching threads as this ensure evenness in the color scheme.

You can add varying patterns of your choice be creative and this is the fist time you're making your own penny rug.

Now is time to add the lining to cover the back of the wool pieces and knots try using a color that matches the thread. Cotton is recommended for your lining as this is easily cleaned however feel free to use whatever you have available.

Sew pennies onto the edge of the large black center piece by using a whip stitch to attach them to the edge
 
You can now sew pennies around the edge of your center piece using a whip stitch style to firmly attach to the edges.

You have just completed you fist penny rug and it's a grantee  it will not be your last give them as gifts for Christmas as well as birth day events friends and family will love for the though and the beautiful designs.

Some Tips

Always visit local thrift shops as you will find something useful in the making of your penny rugs save old wool items as these can be incorporated into your design.

Work together with family or friends as this is a good way to bond especially with children.