How to make a Braided Rag Rug with Ilka White

Join the extremely talented Ilka White here at ORTO Farm and learn to make your own braided rag rug with colours of your choice.

Recycle your old clothes and make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique.

We share an inspiring range of colour and design possibilities in this one day workshop. Beautiful and unique floor coverings are possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rags for a ‘carpet of flowers’.

This braiding technique weaves in as we go so there is no stitching up required afterward. Bring your own material to recycle and find out what riches can come from rags…

Morning – Introduction and braiding basics
Afternoon – Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing

We will provide a light lunch, tea, coffee.

About the Artist

Ilka White is an artist, designer and maker of textiles. Her work often responds to the forces at play within the natural world and reflects the principles of sustainability. An experienced teacher, Ilka’s popular classes also reflect her love of the handmade, and her contemporary use of traditional making methods. She is a great believer in the ability of beauty and creativity to lift the spirit!

Praise for Ilka:

“Thank you so much once again for a truly wonderful workshop last weekend! I am so inspired by the process, the outcome, and the broader context of extending the useful lifespan of the materials in our lives. Thank you so much for your thoughtful and patient sharing of this method, I really am so very grateful :)”
– Candice

“I was much in need of creative time & found this day exquisite. Ilka is a superb teacher, thank you so much”.
– Shelagh

“Thank you so much for a wonderful workshop today! You have such a lovely, warm and thoughtful approach and your knowledge and experience shines through. You’re an inspiration!”
– Cat

“I find it totally addictive – I lost my power last night in a thunderstorm but continued to braid with a head torch on!”
– Betsy