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The Kitchen Table

making toothbrush rag rug

17 years ago

This is just a method for using a toothbrush handle as a tool. The old toothbrushes had hole in handle, but now I quess some use a plastic handle from a spatula.

I will put in a link.

If that doesn't work go to utube search under toothbrush rag rug. LauraJaneV82 has the best instructions. Thats how I learned. I use sheet for my fabric with occasional scrap fabric. I tear the fabric strips rather than cutting, lost of strings but thats ok.

I am working on my 2nd one.

I know there is a croquet method to do this also, that is probably easier. I am going to try that on my nest rug after I learn to croquet.

Here is a link that might be useful: toothbrush rag rug instructions

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Comments (6)

desert_bound
17 years ago
I have made a number of crocheted rag rugs but like the toothbrush method best. I agree, that is a great tutorial.
sunshines
17 years ago
Thanks izzie.
I have had the desire to make a rag rug for a long time but never thought I could but that tutorial is great and is inspiring me.

I will tear my strips to but how wide ? Does each strip have to be the same width? I would love to see a picture of your rag rugs. How do you wash them when they become soiled?
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izzie
Original Author
17 years ago
I tear my strips in 1 1/2" width. I cut with scissors for the first 2" all along the width them tear the rest of the way. The first one I made is about 2 1/2 feet x 2 feet. I read somewhere if you are going to use heavy thick fabric such s denim its easier to work with in thinner strips. You can really make them as wide as you wish. The first one I made was all wavey and look more like a potato chip. But after walking on it it flattened out.
Someone said you have to "train" them to be a rug. Put them on the floor and walk on it jump up and down and say...be a rug, be a rug, be a rug..it worked!!

I washed mine in wash machine and threw in dryer, it was fine. I guess you could dry outdoors also. Lot of strings came off it the first time I washed it so make sure you have one of those strainer things on water hose to tub so it doesn't clog your drain.

There is a formula for figuring how long to make the first row (making an oval rug) the dimensions, I can't seem to find it...I'm looking.
sunshines
17 years ago
Thanks for the info izzie.

Can't wait to get started, I'm exctied.
I have tons of 100% cotton fabric so I'm hoping it will look like a Shabby Chic when I'm through. Saw one in Target and it cost a fortune.
vicki_lv
17 years ago
I wish I had the patience for that!
izzie
Original Author
17 years ago
I found the formula for figuring oval rug.
Example: if you want rug to be 36" x 23". Subtract the width from the length, the remainder, 13" will be the starting row length before you turn and go the other way.

I found the original place where I found information

ragrugcafe.com

go to the comments that were made under the toothbrush rug complete video instructions part 1.

***Also, you need to add increase stiches, ie 2 or more stiches in a hole at corners to keep it from becoming a bowl. I guess like croqueters make..I haven't done croquet yet.

Here is a link that might be useful: rag rug cafe

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