Z. Rugged Crochet Rug - Recycling Bedsheets ・ClearlyHelena

Recycling Bedsheets into a Crochet Rug was very satisfying. And rather pleased with the result as well.

This happened while I was “homeless”. Which meant, almost no tools nor materials on hand. Instead I got some old bed sheets from the local op shop and a large crochet hook. After a few experimentations and multiple re-dos, I settled on the crochet stitches of choice.

Rugged Crochet Rug (ch0326)

The Process of Making the Rugged Crochet Rug

Old Bedsheets for Crochet Rug

I won’t into massive details. The process is quite easy.
Started off with some old bed sheets. (In the end, the rug required about 2½ queen sized bedsheets.)

Prepare fabric strips

Prepared fabric strips. The cotton bedsheets were easy to tear. So I just snipped the edge and tore away!

As I mentioned in Raggety Shaggy Rugs, it is best to work outside for this part. Depending on the fabric you are using, there might be a lot of fine dust. It will end up on every conceivable surface.
Also use a face mask if possible to minimize breathing in this fine fabric dust.

Tip 1:

The cutting/tearing process usually ends up with what is generally considered “waste” to be thrown away. This are all the loose threads that result form the tearing/cutting.

I decided to collect them for recycling. You will be amazed how much one ends up with. They are great for stuffing (cushions, dolls, etc.) in other projects.

Tip 2:

It is best to clean or pull out all these loose threads as your tear each strip. If you leave them, you will find they get caught up in your crochet hook later. Very annoying!

Then we are on to crocheting! I used a large crochet hook. About 7mm or 8mm. I used an alternating Double in Frontpost & Double in Backpost crochet stitches to produce the raised, ribbing effect. It is this that gave the crochet rug extra thickness and a rugged texture.

Note: you can refer to the crochet stitches in the Crochet Stitches Library.

After finishing to the size required, I edged off the along the width with single crochet stitches and embellished with large wooden buttons. That’s it. Very quick. Very easy. Very enjoyable – and Best of all – Very Useful! 😀

Click on any of the images for a real good look at the rugged crochet rug.