Turn Old Clothes Into Something Useful: Make a Rag Rug

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Nothing goes to waste on the homestead and that includes old clothes and fabric scraps. Instead of tossing them, you can transform these remnants into something beautiful and practical: a rag rug.

Rag rugs have been part of homesteads for generations. They’re durable enough for everyday use and carry the story of the fabric they’re made from. Every strip of cloth becomes part of a new piece and proves that even the smallest scraps still have value.

In our latest guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a rag rug step by step, explore different styles from braided to crocheted, and share why this heritage skill still belongs in today’s homestead.

Ready to turn rags into something worth keeping?

👉 Read the full tutorial here.

Rag bag (noun): a sack or bin kept for storing worn textiles to be reused for new tasks or crafts.

Homesteaders often fill their rag bags with old shirts, torn aprons, and faded sheets.

Use it: “Grab the rag bag. We’ll cut strips for tonight’s braiding.”
Try this: Label a basket “Rag Bag” and start saving two items this week.

Keep your fabric strips the same width when making a rag rug. Even half an inch off can cause ripples. Consistent strips = a rug that stays flat and lasts longer.

 Step 1: Pick three items from your rag pile (an old flannel, a worn sheet, a pair of jeans).
Step 2: Tear them into long strips.
Step 3: Roll the strips into a ball of fabric.
Step 4: Snap a picture and send it our way. We’d love to feature your journey!

Don’t toss thin old bedsheets. Instead, tear them into strips and use them as material for lightweight summer rugs. You can also cut them into ties for gardening purposes such as supporting tomato plants and climbing beans. 

🥫 Waste-Not Pantry Pick

Grandma knew the trick: jars warmed, filled, bathed, and labeled!

It’s the timeless way to save summer and skip winter’s waste.

Tools you’ll need: Canning Kit +  Mason Jars

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Step 1: Tear three fabric strips of even width.
Step 2: Knot the ends together.
Step 3: Braid steadily, keeping tension even.
Step 4: Coil your braid as it grows to form the base of the rug.

Try it! It’s therapeutic to craft!

What’s the most unusual fabric you’ve ever turned into a rag rug? Denim, a child’s dress, even burlap? Reply with your story and we may feature it in next week’s issue.