By Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press
A group of local rug hookers showcased their artistry and designs at the Friendship Club Hall on 5 August 2023. Billed as a come and go tea, which was held from 10 a.m to 3 p.m, proved to be a popular addition to the event circuit for many on the Saturday morning which included the Farmers’ Market, Art show, “Airing of the Quilts” show and the shops along Main Street in Lion’s Head.
Hooked on the Bruce is a branch of the Ontario Hooking Craft Guild (OHCG) since 2016. Currently there are 24 members and they meet every Tuesday at the Friendship Club.
The members meet to socialize and work on their individual items. However at times they will work on various themes, for example tulips or birds or seasonal themes. There is also a wide range of experience within the group to allow them to draw on various skill levels for advice.
At the Rug Hooking show, nearly all of the members had a piece of work on display. There were approximately 162 pieces displayed including rugs, pillows, wreaths, handbags and trivets.
Visitors to the show had the opportunity to view the amazing works of art, meet many of the creators and learn about the techniques of rug hooking.
In the demonstration tent set up outside the Friendship Hall, visitors were able to get a quick lesson on the different materials and tools used in the art of rug hooking and to try their hand at it.
Rug hooking typically uses wool strips or yarn. Other fibres can be incorporated or for embellishments. There are four types: Primitives, a simplified pattern; Traditionals with a complex pattern of shading; Oriental are stylized often with mirror image motifs and Contemporary described as non-traditional with different textures and uses various yarns, felt strips and embellishments. Rug hooking uses an open-weave background such as burlap, linen or cotton. A rug hook is used and a hoop keeps the fabric taut. The fabric is worked back to front.
The group says new members are always welcomed.
