There’s something incredibly rewarding about creating a cozy wool rug from scratch, especially when using wool from our own sheep and a peg loom made by my husband. In this blog post, I’ll share my journey and break down each step so you can try weaving your own wool rug on a peg loom.

1. Preparing the Wool

Our journey begins in the pasture, where we care for our flock. Providing proper nutrients, hay, housing, and minerals is essential for producing high-quality wool.

When shearing season arrives, we carefully remove the wool, ensuring that the fleece remains as clean as possible and that the blanket portion stays intact. We often use the wool "as is," which lends our rugs a whimsical vibe and a non-uniform finish. Don’t worry; the wool does get washed, just not at the beginning of the process.

Alternatively, after shearing, the wool can be washed to remove lanolin and dirt, followed by carding to make it soft and fluffy, making it ideal for weaving. The choice between these methods depends on the desired outcome: a smooth, uniform product or a non-uniform one with curls and bulky sections.

2. Setting Up the Peg Loom

My husband built our peg loom from reclaimed wood, and it’s a joy to use. To set it up, I thread a strong warp yarn (cotton or jute, 3mm thickness) through each peg, leaving enough length for the rug’s finished size. The warp provides structure for the rug as you weave.

3. Weaving the Wool

With the loom ready, I start weaving by threading thick strands of prepared wool in and out around the pegs. After weaving a few layers, I gently slide the woven wool down off the pegs onto the warp threads, packing each row tightly. This process is repeated, row by row, until the rug reaches the desired length.

4. Finishing the Rug

After completing the intricate weaving, I take great care to secure the warp threads, meticulously tying them off to prevent any unraveled ends from spoiling the craftsmanship. Using a pair of sharp scissors, I trim away any stray strands, ensuring a crisp and polished appearance. To breathe life into the rug, I immerse it in a series of soothing, warm baths filled with gentle soap, allowing the fibers to luxuriate and settle into their final intended shape. This rejuvenating process is followed by a delicate wash in warm water, often with mild soap that cleans and softens the fibers, highlighting their natural hue and texture. The result is a sumptuous, thick, and inviting wool rug, uniquely handcrafted with love and precision. Each rug is a testament to the artistry and dedication woven into its very essence.

5. Enjoying the Finished Product

Each rug tells a story—of the sheep that provided the wool, the hands that built the loom, and the time spent weaving. These rugs add warmth and character to any home, and it’s deeply satisfying to create something so meaningful from start to finish. If you have access to raw wool and a peg loom, I encourage you to try this simple, timeless craft. The results are both beautiful and practical—a true labor of love!