A rug is a type of moveable floor covering, typically made from woven material. Rug-makers can make these coverings from various materials using a range of different methods. There are natural fiber rugs, like wool, silk, or jute rugs, and synthetic fiber rugs, like polyester and stain-resistant olefin rugs. Some rugs feature a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, like blending [silk](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-silk-how-to-use-and-care-for-silk-fabric) with [viscose](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-viscose-understanding-viscose-fabric-and-how-viscose-is-made) to increase durability. The material of a rug can affect price, durability, design, and feeling. 

Rugs bring warmth and texture into a home, serving various functional and aesthetic purposes. Placing an area rug in a living room ties a room together, while a bath mat helps feet from slipping on wet tile.
Understanding the different types of rugs available can help you determine the best style for your home décor. Here are some of the most common types of rugs: 

1. __Cut and loop__: The textured cut and loop rug combines looped and cut fibers to create a carved design in the rug. Geometric patterns are the most popular designs for these rugs. One side effect of the varied fiber lengths is it prematurely shows age as the longer fibers can untwist and hide the visual interest created by the shorter fibers. 
2. __Cut pile__: The ubiquitous cut pile tufted rug is widely available thanks to its versatility and relatively low construction cost. First introduced in the 1930s with the invention of the tufting machine, manufacturers construct tufted rugs by pulling a loop of synthetic or wool yarn through the backing and then using shears to create a smooth, low-pile service. One major drawback of this style is that it sheds more than other styles. 
3. __Fur/leather/hide__: Rugs made of animal skin, such as cowhide or deerskin, are among the oldest rug styles. These pieces bring rich texture into a room and are good for layering with other rugs or furniture. Fluffy white sheepskin rugs are especially popular and a fixture of bedsides and furniture. Faux fur rugs are a great alternative for people who want the natural warmth and texture of a fur or hide rug but are on a tight budget or averse to using materials derived from animals for home décor.
4. __Flatweave__: Manufacturers make the lightweight flatweave rug on a loom by weaving horizontal yarn through vertical yarn. They construct these rugs in various styles and patterns from various materials, including [cotton](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-cotton), jute, seagrass, silk, or wool. Kilim and dhurrie rugs are two traditional styles of flatweave rugs. These no-pile rugs are reversible and easier to clean than other styles, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas, such as a child’s playroom. The thinness of this style is ideal for locations where a door will open over it, like an entryway or hallway. Since these rugs don’t have any backing, a rug pad is necessary to keep them from slipping.
5. __Loop pile__: Manufacturers construct loop pile rugs the same way as a cut pile option, except they don’t shave the fibers upon completion. They come in various weights, thicknesses, and materials and are durable enough for you to place them in high-traffic areas. However, there is a risk of accidentally pulling the in-tact loops loose if something snags on it, like a pet’s claw. The loops can also trap dust and dirt, an important consideration for people with allergies. 
6. __Oriental__: Oriental rugs, which include Persian rugs, are hand-knotted in China, Iran, India, Russia, Pakistan, Turkey, Tibet, and Nepal using traditional designs and methods, though countless imitations are available worldwide. These coveted rugs came with a hefty price tag, but modern manufacturing methods and materials have increased the availability of Persian rug look-alikes for those who want this refined rug’s timeless elegance without the cost. 
7. __Outdoor__: Manufacturers make outdoor rugs from natural materials, such as jute, or weather-resistant synthetic materials, like polypropylene. A braided rug can serve as a doormat for wiping your feet, while UV-resistant polypropylene rugs can add style to an outdoor patio. 
8. __Shag__: The shag rug may be synonymous with the hippie culture of the 1960s, but this style dates back to ancient Greece. Deep-pile shag rugs comprise loops of long natural or synthetic fibers which offer an alluring sensory sensation, making it an optimal rug for a bedroom. You may find shag rugs difficult to maintain because their high-pile makes vacuuming a challenge.
A DIY rug project is a great craft project for channeling your creativity, leaving you with a custom rug personalized to your home décor. From a homemade rag rug to a crochet rug, the style and size you choose will determine the exact materials you’ll need, but whatever you decide, you’ll likely need the following: 

1. __Backing__: You’ll need some backing material to attach the fibers to if you are making a tufted or hand-knotted rug. Monk’s cloth or multi-use netting are good choices. Woven rugs do not require backing material. 
2. __Weaving materials__: Whichever rug you decide to make, you’ll need a fiber, like wool, twine, silk, or cotton, to create it. If you’re interested in making a sustainable DIY rug, you don’t need to buy specialty materials for this project. You can repurpose household items or clothing, such as an old T-shirt, hula hoops, dropcloth, denim waistbands, leftover felt from a child’s arts and crafts project, pom-poms, and old bedding. 
3. __Weaving tools__: Different rug styles require different specialty tools. For example, a crocheted rug requires a crochet hook, a rug hook for a tufted rug, or a weaving frame to help you pull the weaving materials tight. You can buy these tools at a fabric or craft store. 
4. __Scissors__: Whatever rug design you choose, you’ll need sharp scissors to cut and trim the fabric. 
5. __Stencil__: If you want to weave a design into your rug, you’ll need a stencil to trace it onto the backing material, so you know where to put the different color fibers.
Making your own rug is an easy DIY home décor project suitable to any skill level. A beginner rug-maker can make a no-sew rope rug by braiding ropes together, while a crafty hobbyist may embark on a latch-hook rug. The following is a step-by-step rug tutorial: 

1. __Choose your style__. When deciding which style of rug to make for this DIY project, consider the following factors: size, home décor, function, color, budget, and time commitment. For example, if you are a novice DIYer or don’t have a lot of time on your hands, you’ll likely want to start with a small rug, like a bath mat, rather than a large area rug, which is more labor-intensive. If you want to use your rug outdoors, you’ll need to find a weather-resistant, durable material.  
2. __Take measurements__. Measure the space where you plan to place the rug to determine the size you’ll need to make. Next, measure and cut your backing and weaving materials, whether fabric strips or yarn pieces, accordingly.
3. __Practice your rug-making method__. Before diving into the project, take some time to practice the method you plan to use. If you are crocheting a small rug, practice a few loops until you have the process down. If you are weaving a fabric rug, practice setting up the grid and weaving a few rows to get the motion down.  
4. __Fill in the rug__. This exact step will vary depending on the rug style. For example, filling in a woven rug involves weaving horizontal fibers through vertical fibers and pulling them tight. Tufted or hand-knotted rugs loop individual fibers through a grid of sorts. In some cases, it’s as simple as hot-gluing twine or pom-poms onto a backing. 
5. __Apply finishing touches__. This step looks different for every rug. For woven rugs, this can be as simple as tying off the weaving materials. Some tufted rugs might require binding material glued around the edges to keep the fibers from fraying. 
6. __Place your rug__. Showcase your rug in the location of your choice.
Master everything from color theory to pattern mixing with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and exclusive lessons from award-winning interior designers like Kelly Wearstler and Corey Damen Jenkins. From shopping for statement furniture to designing a lighting scheme to choosing the newest member of your plant family, the skills you’ll pick up are sure to make your house, apartment, or condo feel even more like a home. 
Rug-making dates back to prehistoric times when nomadic people made hide rugs to keep warm. Today, countless styles of factory-made synthetic rugs are available at a range of price points, but you can carry on the tradition by learning how to make your own rug with our step-by-step tutorial.

Rug-making dates back to prehistoric times when nomadic people made hide rugs to keep warm. Today, countless styles of factory-made synthetic rugs are available at a range of price points, but you can carry on the tradition by learning how to make your own rug with our step-by-step tutorial.

How to Make a Rug: 5 Materials You Need to Make a Rug

A rug is a type of moveable floor covering, typically made from woven material. Rug-makers can make these coverings from various materials using a range of different methods. There are natural fiber rugs, like wool, silk, or jute rugs, and synthetic fiber rugs, like polyester and stain-resistant olefin rugs. Some rugs feature a combination of natural and synthetic fibers, like blending <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-silk-how-to-use-and-care-for-silk-fabric' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-silk-how-to-use-and-care-for-silk-fabric","linkCopy":"silk","category":null}'>silk</a> with <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-viscose-understanding-viscose-fabric-and-how-viscose-is-made' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-viscose-understanding-viscose-fabric-and-how-viscose-is-made","linkCopy":"viscose","category":null}'>viscose</a> to increase durability. The material of a rug can affect price, durability, design, and feeling. Rugs bring warmth and texture into a home, serving various functional and aesthetic purposes. Placing an area rug in a living room ties a room together, while a bath mat helps feet from slipping on wet tile.

What Is a Rug?

Understanding the different types of rugs available can help you determine the best style for your home décor. Here are some of the most common types of rugs: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Cut and loop: The textured cut and loop rug combines looped and cut fibers to create a carved design in the rug. Geometric patterns are the most popular designs for these rugs. One side effect of the varied fiber lengths is it prematurely shows age as the longer fibers can untwist and hide the visual interest created by the shorter fibers. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Cut pile: The ubiquitous cut pile tufted rug is widely available thanks to its versatility and relatively low construction cost. First introduced in the 1930s with the invention of the tufting machine, manufacturers construct tufted rugs by pulling a loop of synthetic or wool yarn through the backing and then using shears to create a smooth, low-pile service. One major drawback of this style is that it sheds more than other styles. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Fur/leather/hide: Rugs made of animal skin, such as cowhide or deerskin, are among the oldest rug styles. These pieces bring rich texture into a room and are good for layering with other rugs or furniture. Fluffy white sheepskin rugs are especially popular and a fixture of bedsides and furniture. Faux fur rugs are a great alternative for people who want the natural warmth and texture of a fur or hide rug but are on a tight budget or averse to using materials derived from animals for home décor. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Flatweave: Manufacturers make the lightweight flatweave rug on a loom by weaving horizontal yarn through vertical yarn. They construct these rugs in various styles and patterns from various materials, including <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-cotton' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-cotton","linkCopy":"cotton","category":null}'>cotton</a>, jute, seagrass, silk, or wool. Kilim and dhurrie rugs are two traditional styles of flatweave rugs. These no-pile rugs are reversible and easier to clean than other styles, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas, such as a child’s playroom. The thinness of this style is ideal for locations where a door will open over it, like an entryway or hallway. Since these rugs don’t have any backing, a rug pad is necessary to keep them from slipping. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Loop pile: Manufacturers construct loop pile rugs the same way as a cut pile option, except they don’t shave the fibers upon completion. They come in various weights, thicknesses, and materials and are durable enough for you to place them in high-traffic areas. However, there is a risk of accidentally pulling the in-tact loops loose if something snags on it, like a pet’s claw. The loops can also trap dust and dirt, an important consideration for people with allergies. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. Oriental: Oriental rugs, which include Persian rugs, are hand-knotted in China, Iran, India, Russia, Pakistan, Turkey, Tibet, and Nepal using traditional designs and methods, though countless imitations are available worldwide. These coveted rugs came with a hefty price tag, but modern manufacturing methods and materials have increased the availability of Persian rug look-alikes for those who want this refined rug’s timeless elegance without the cost. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 7. Outdoor: Manufacturers make outdoor rugs from natural materials, such as jute, or weather-resistant synthetic materials, like polypropylene. A braided rug can serve as a doormat for wiping your feet, while UV-resistant polypropylene rugs can add style to an outdoor patio. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 8. Shag: The shag rug may be synonymous with the hippie culture of the 1960s, but this style dates back to ancient Greece. Deep-pile shag rugs comprise loops of long natural or synthetic fibers which offer an alluring sensory sensation, making it an optimal rug for a bedroom. You may find shag rugs difficult to maintain because their high-pile makes vacuuming a challenge. </li></ol>

8 Common Types of Rugs

A DIY rug project is a great craft project for channeling your creativity, leaving you with a custom rug personalized to your home décor. From a homemade rag rug to a crochet rug, the style and size you choose will determine the exact materials you’ll need, but whatever you decide, you’ll likely need the following: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Backing: You’ll need some backing material to attach the fibers to if you are making a tufted or hand-knotted rug. Monk’s cloth or multi-use netting are good choices. Woven rugs do not require backing material. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Weaving materials: Whichever rug you decide to make, you’ll need a fiber, like wool, twine, silk, or cotton, to create it. If you’re interested in making a sustainable DIY rug, you don’t need to buy specialty materials for this project. You can repurpose household items or clothing, such as an old T-shirt, hula hoops, dropcloth, denim waistbands, leftover felt from a child’s arts and crafts project, pom-poms, and old bedding. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Weaving tools: Different rug styles require different specialty tools. For example, a crocheted rug requires a crochet hook, a rug hook for a tufted rug, or a weaving frame to help you pull the weaving materials tight. You can buy these tools at a fabric or craft store. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Scissors: Whatever rug design you choose, you’ll need sharp scissors to cut and trim the fabric. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Stencil: If you want to weave a design into your rug, you’ll need a stencil to trace it onto the backing material, so you know where to put the different color fibers. </li></ol>

5 Materials You Need to Make a Rug

Making your own rug is an easy DIY home décor project suitable to any skill level. A beginner rug-maker can make a no-sew rope rug by braiding ropes together, while a crafty hobbyist may embark on a latch-hook rug. The following is a step-by-step rug tutorial: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Choose your style. When deciding which style of rug to make for this DIY project, consider the following factors: size, home décor, function, color, budget, and time commitment. For example, if you are a novice DIYer or don’t have a lot of time on your hands, you’ll likely want to start with a small rug, like a bath mat, rather than a large area rug, which is more labor-intensive. If you want to use your rug outdoors, you’ll need to find a weather-resistant, durable material. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Take measurements. Measure the space where you plan to place the rug to determine the size you’ll need to make. Next, measure and cut your backing and weaving materials, whether fabric strips or yarn pieces, accordingly. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Practice your rug-making method. Before diving into the project, take some time to practice the method you plan to use. If you are crocheting a small rug, practice a few loops until you have the process down. If you are weaving a fabric rug, practice setting up the grid and weaving a few rows to get the motion down. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Fill in the rug. This exact step will vary depending on the rug style. For example, filling in a woven rug involves weaving horizontal fibers through vertical fibers and pulling them tight. Tufted or hand-knotted rugs loop individual fibers through a grid of sorts. In some cases, it’s as simple as hot-gluing twine or pom-poms onto a backing. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Apply finishing touches. This step looks different for every rug. For woven rugs, this can be as simple as tying off the weaving materials. Some tufted rugs might require binding material glued around the edges to keep the fibers from fraying. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. Place your rug. Showcase your rug in the location of your choice. </li></ol>

How to Make a Rug

Master everything from color theory to pattern mixing with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_self' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and exclusive lessons from award-winning interior designers like Kelly Wearstler and Corey Damen Jenkins. From shopping for statement furniture to designing a lighting scheme to choosing the newest member of your plant family, the skills you’ll pick up are sure to make your house, apartment, or condo feel even more like a home.

Ready to Give Your Space a Chic Update?

Rug-making dates back to prehistoric times when nomadic people made hide rugs to keep warm. Today, countless styles of factory-made synthetic rugs are available at a range of price points, but you can carry on the tradition by learning how to make your own rug with our step-by-step tutorial.

Rug-making dates back to prehistoric times when nomadic people made hide rugs to keep warm. Today, countless styles of factory-made synthetic rugs are available at a range of price points, but you can carry on the tradition by learning how to make your own rug with our step-by-step tutorial.
