The Rug-Hooking Process

First, Joan B. Gates dyes the wool by hand in large batches.


Joan B. Gates stands in front of her rainbow of odds and ends from various rugs.

The special canvas is stretched on a frame that holds it tight. The hooker works from the back side of the artwork.


Joan B. Gates with a work in progress.

The wool passes through a hooking needle and is punched through the canvas from the back side in long lines. Skill is required to keep the loops even.


Joan B. Gates demonstrates her technique.

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