RAG ART STUDIOS is the on-line presence of RAG ART. This was originally set up and run as a mail order service by Ann Davies and Mary Dayton. Ann had written 4 books about the craft of rag rug making, while Mary was particularly interested in using recycled fabrics for the development of creative talents. Together they aimed to provide what was needed to enable the craft to be more widely followed; there was very little to purchase on the High Street and few teachers were available.

A series of workshops, talks and demonstrations enabled them to become aware in more detail of the different styles of work students were interested in learning. These required a range of tool shapes, sizes and weights to enable most people to take part. The task of preparing the fabrics was made easier by sourcing tough cutting tools and a range of base fabrics to cover the range of styles, tools and fabrics was organised. Rag rug making is still a niche activity in Britain so it is difficult to get special weaves made to order in the quantities affordable by craft workers.

Interest in recycling has grown enormously and there is a noticeable increase in people wanting to learn craft skills. The number of rag rug makers has grown rapidly since 2002. The current practice of combining different craft skills is ensuring fresh ideas continue to develop. This multimedia approach together with a strong emphasis on good design now ensures rag rugmaking skills offer an important contribution to the modern textile scene.

In August 2011 Mary retired and Rag Art is now run by Sue Clow who is a textile artist and keen rag rug maker based in West Wales. Mary will continue to offer her gems of wisdom on the blog and be available for expert advice when customers need it. Sue has been making rugs for 18 years and started her recycled textile business Zalingai in 1999. She teaches rag rug making workshops at events such as Wonderwool and at festivals, at the Welsh Quilt Museum in Lampeter and travels to teach groups on request. She also makes hats and bags, wallhangings and accessories from recycled materials often incorporating rag rug making into the designs. Her work can also be seen on www.zalingai.co.uk

Plans for the future of Rag Art include continuing Mary and Ann's work of promoting the resurgence of this wonderful recycling craft and keeping the supply of tools and materials flowing. Sue will be running Rag Art as a family business and with the support of her son and daughter hopes to expand the range of services Rag Art can provide, attending more shows and reaching more groups for workshops.

If you have any questions about rag rug making or would like to book a workshop please contact us by email, telephone or use the form provided.