Guest Author - Iris ten Holder


Are you considering starting rug hooking as a hobby, a craft or an art?
Rug hooking can be practised on many levels

Most types of rugmaking have their own rigid structure - consider knitting, braiding, knotting. Rug hooking is random. It is possible to start in the middle, do a segment of the design and the work around it. It does not need to be done row by row, although it certainly can be. That is where it flexibility is apparent. . It lends itself to artistic expression.

Pearl McGown's influence on rug hooking is still recognized throughout the United States, and even in Canada. She was totally devoted to the craft. Her house was organized around rugmaking. She wrote several books on rugmaking and taught the craft over many years and to many, setting up schools, so others could do this as well. Thus she formed a network and this has certainly been an important factor in the widespread preservation of rug hooking as a craft.

Artists have been able to expand on this and now produce pieces of art, akin to the great tapestries in Europe.

The McGown Guild web site lists guilds, schools, and non-affiliated organizations.

Living in Canada, I was of course curious where this would bring me. I found several locations and to my delight even one very close to my residence in Ottawa.

Here are some others:


The Lunenburg Seaside Craft School workshops in dyeing and color theory. In 2007 there was also a workshop on hat making. Rug hooking lends itself well to smaller items, such as has, mug rugs and Christmas stockings.

For update information check out their website. Even if it is not anywhere near you, you can enjoy the virtual trip.



The Ontario Hooking Craft Guild has existed since 1966, according to their web site "to encourage excellence of craftsmanship in the art of rug hooking, to foster an awareness of beauty in color and design, and to provide opportunities for the exchange of ideas and information among members of the Guild.
The Teachers’ Branch was formed in 1974, providing certification as an O.H.C.G. teacher.
For more information about meetings and rug hooking in Ontario go to their website at

Several branches take part in a display of rug hooking, and award prizes in several categories to those who choose to have their pieces judged. This display has achieved great acclamation from members of the public who attend in increasing numbers.
I think it is true now as it was in 1988 that "In the world of today, where the words "convenient", fast" and "instant" are commonplace, traditional rug hooking seems to be an anachronism…. it continues to be an ever-expanding art form that appeals to both traditional and contemporary tastes. Rugs, wall hangings, cushions, bags and mats are lasting examples of a craft loved by many and they are certain to be treasured as heirlooms by the next generation.”

This is still true today. Many rug-hooking groups organize exhibits or conduct exhibits in combination with a national or provincial craft organization.

With these links, you can pursue these avenues. In future articles I will look closer at some, especially if I have had an opportunity to make further contact.




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