Penny Rugs with Janet Connor

One form of appliqued table rug that became very popular during the mid to late-19th century was the “penny rug,” so called because of the small circular patches of wool used to create geometric and pictorial scenes. Sometimes referred to as “coin,” “button,” or “money” rugs, farm people used these common household items to trace around as makeshift templates. It was said that after shearing, spinning, weaving and wearing one’s own wool, no one would throw away a piece of woolen fabric until it was smaller than a penny! Every scrap was recycled. Soon creative stitchers developed images of flowers, urns, birds, and familiar animals in their penny rug appliques. Each penny rug was further embellished by the use of simple embroidery stitches to hold each patch in place, and to add expressive detail.

The sequence and procedure of penny rug making will be demonstrated from start to finish. History, antique examples, and sources for purchasing more materials will be discussed. Anyone who enjoys rug hooking, rug braiding, or quilting would enjoy making penny rugs, although absolutely no prior experience is needed!

Date:  Wednesday July 15

Time:  9 a.m. till 3 p.m.

Course cost:  $35 payable to the Bridgton Historical Society at the time of registration

Material costs:  (variable) a prepared kit of materials for a cost of $35-$75 (depending upon size) payable to the instructor on the day of the class. Each kit contains a unique selection of pre-washed and hand dyed wools, patterns and design suggestions, and even the embroidery needle and threads!