Rag Rug

Rag Rug by Jem Weston

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer Jem Weston provides instructions for creating a textured rag rug using worsted weight yarn. The finished piece measures approximately 54.5 cm (21½ inches) wide and 97.5 cm (38½ inches) long including fringe edging, with the knitted section alone measuring 54.5 cm (21½ inches) wide and 77.5 cm (30½ inches) long. This beginner-friendly project is suitable for knitters new to rug-making techniques.

What Is Being Made

The Rag Rug is a functional home textile designed for floor use. The pattern creates a substantial, durable rug that combines knitted fabric with fringe detailing. The finished dimensions make it suitable for placement in entryways, kitchens, or other high-traffic areas where a decorative yet practical rug is desired.

Knitting Techniques Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The construction involves working flat in rows across the width of the rug, with color changes introduced throughout the design. The pattern uses a repeating six-row sequence that forms the visual texture of the finished piece. Yarn is broken off and rejoined at specific intervals, with approximately 15 cm (6 inches) tails left for finishing and framing the fringe edging.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Knit Stitch (K): The primary stitch used throughout the pattern, creating the foundation fabric of the rug
• Slip Stitch Pwise (Sl1 Pwise): Slipped stitches worked purlwise with yarn held at the back, used in alternating rows to create texture and visual interest in the pattern repeat

The six-row pattern repeat consists of knit rows alternating with slip stitch rows. Rows 2, 4, and 6 are worked entirely in knit stitch. Rows 3 and 5 feature a repeating motif of K1, *Sl1 Pwise with yarn at back, K1* worked to the end of the row. This combination of knit and slip stitches creates a distinctive textured surface characteristic of rag rug construction.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for Rowan Handknit Cotton yarn in worsted weight. The design incorporates multiple yarn colors, with the pattern referencing color changes to yarns labeled A through F. Each color section is worked for specific row sequences before breaking off and introducing the next color, creating horizontal color bands throughout the rug. The use of cotton yarn provides durability and washability suitable for a floor rug that will experience regular use and potential cleaning.

Pattern Structure and Progression

Knitters continue working the six-row pattern repeat until the knitted section reaches approximately 54 cm (21½ inches) in length, ending after completing a full row 6 of the pattern. The pattern is designed to be worked continuously with color changes integrated at regular intervals. The fringe edging is created using the yarn tails left when breaking off each color section, adding approximately 20 cm (8 inches) to the total finished length of the completed rug.