The Wild Hare Rug Studio in Elk Rapids, MI is a wonderful space located on the river in a small resort town. It is filled with hand dyed rug yarn, hand dyed wool fabric, patterns, books and all the supplies needed to create hooked rugs. There is an inviting atmosphere for one to take a class in punch needle rug hooking, traditional rug hooking, rag rugs, mini punch needle embroidery, and wool appliqué projects.
Demonstrations on the different techniques to make a rug will be held weekly. Information of dates and times will be posted under class information.
I believe that learning how to make things enhances our lives, make us feel good and brings people together. I am excited to share my studio and be available for others to come and take a class, meet with those who share the same interest in rug making, and generally enjoy working with wool fibers.
Directions To The Studio
The Wild Hare Rug Studio is located at 204 River St. in downtown Elk Rapids, just 15 minutes north of Traverse City. Follow US31 north to River St., turn left and look for the studio on the right, in the third block, across from the Elk Rapids Cinema.
Our studio hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10-4, other times by appointment. It is always a good idea to call ahead.
The History of Punch Needle Rug Hooking
Punch needle rug hooking is sometimes referred to as New England style rug hooking. It began in the late 1800’s and one of the first punch needles we know about was patented in 1881 by G.W. Griffin in Franklin Falls, New Hampshire. Punch needle rug hooking is considerably faster then traditional rug hooking. The designs are worked from the back of the piece, using the needle to punch the wool fabric or yarn to the front. Traditional rug hooking is different for two reasons. The tool is more like a hook that is used to pull the fiber from the back of the pattern to the front. The end results are very similar. Over the years many different punch needles have been invented. Today, the most popular one is manufactured by The Oxford Company in Vermont, invented by Amy Oxford. Her needle is very simple to use. It comes in many sizes and can accommodate many different types of fiber.
The Wild Hare Rug Studio will provide you with everything you need to learn more about punch needle rug hooking. We offer classes, patterns, kits, books, quality wool, rug yarn and supplies needed to help you get started. Once you learn the basics, you can go on to create pillows, footstools, purses, seat cushions, and design rugs of your very own. It is a very versatile and portable craft. We also offer the studio to groups who enjoy working with fiber. I look forward to meeting you soon!