Braided Rug Construction

For years, the addition of a simple braided rug to a room has added an element of comfort and appeal. When braided rugs first became popular during the depression era, most were made in an oval or circular shape using a simple braiding construction. Since that time, a variety of different braid techniques and rug styles have emerged. Here's a closer look at just a few.

Banded Braided Rug Construction: This construction method uses wide bands of braids, which not only give it a nice appearance, but also make the piece very durable.

Cablelock Braided Rug Construction: With braids that resemble sailing rope, this is perhaps one of the most unique types of braided rug construction.

Flat Braided Rug Construction: One of the more classic methods used, flat braid construction creates a look that most people tend to think of when they think about braided rugs. It uses three ropes of fabric, which are first intertwined and then braided into the larger components of the rug.

Make Your Own
One of the best ways to learn how braided rugs are made is to make your own. Of course, you want to start with a very simple construction method. If you are just interested in learning, you may consider making a miniature one that would be more appropriate for a dollhouse using the following instructions.

1. Sew three 3-inch strips of fabrics together at one end.
2. Braid the three strips together until you reach the end.
3. Sew a new set of 3-inch strips of fabrics to the end of the set you just braided.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have enough fabric for the size of braided rug you want.
5. Coil one end into a tight circle and sew the ends together.
6. Continue coiling until you have used all your fabric.
7. Sew all ends together.