DESCRIPTION:
What does it take to create a primitive rug? Is it the technique, the pattern, the wools, the size of cut, or the colors? Yes, to all of these options - or any combination of these. For the past 15 plus years, Keith’s been on a mission to recreate the look of the old rugs. He will share what he’s learned and continues to learn from the artists of the past.
Students will select an appropriate "primitive" pattern for this retreat, options will be discussed prior to class. In class, Keith will focus on the color plan for you rug, using texture, as-is, and over-dyed wools. But he'll also discuss different hooking styles and techniques to help recreate the look of the old rugs. The majority of cuts used in this class will be # 8 and up, but Keith finds there is really no limit when it comes to giving your rug that “early” appearance. Yep, we can use a narrow # 4 cut to wide torn strips. Various materials for hooking will also be discussed and what they add to a primitive look. You may bring any wools, which you hope to use in your rug. Keith will also have plenty of wool, so there will be lots of options for creating a rug that "wows".
Plan to learn and try some new techniques in this retreat and see how they can impact the overall primitive look. Everything from "raggedy" to "higgley-piggley" to halo and puddled styles. We'll discuss how a specific primitive pattern can help you know how to hook it. Should you hook it rough and random, or is it more traditional and formal. We'll all have fun learning something new to make our rug look old.