004 - Washing wool for rug hooking • Cindi Gay Rug Hooking

Written by Cindi Gay

Episode 004

Just because the label says 100% wool, it does not make it right for rug hooking
Not all wool is created equal
Recycled pros and cons
- cost of gas and time to buy
- Yield
  - average skirt only yields about 5 ounces
  - a yard of rug hooking wool weights about 14 – 16 ounces
  - takes 3 skirts to yield about 1 yard
- limited color choices
- Moth risk
  - bringing old clothing into your home increases your risk of a moth infestation
  - take the wool from your car directly to the washer and wash with warm water
  - rip the wool apart outside and away from the house to avoid spreading any eggs
  - snip and rip – the small amount of wool you get by ripping out the seam is negligible
  - there is some nasty stuff in the seams and hems
  - More moth details are included in my book, Dyeing Without Dye.
- avoid jackets and blazers
- higher cost per piece and usually only the arms are useable. The rest has a fusible lining that leaves a residue.
- Skirts and slacks are the best source.
- Coats and blankets are usually too thick.
- Scarves and shawls are usually beautiful, but expensive for the amount of wool you get
worsted is the worst
You can use less than 100% wool – personal decision
I like thicker wool rather than thin
I avoid the 2×2 weave
Trust your source, know how the wool is stored and what the vendor’s standards are

All wool should be washed to make if fluffy – but also to eliminate any pests
You CAN hook with wool right off the bolt
Wash wool the same way you would wash blue jeans (I even wash wool with blue jeans)
- cool water, hot regular dryer
- If you air dry, it will not fluff
- Be sure your detergent does not include bleach
  - Test for 100% wool using bleach

Snip it into hookable pieces – The method I use.

Label your newly washed and snipped wool with a tag

I cut 5” x” 8” index cards into 4 pieces that are 2” x 5”. Fold in 1/2 and staple on the edge
Include your name
Include a dye formula and base color
Include source – who you bought it from, do they have a name/code for the wool?
Include a date
Did you buy it for a specific rug?
All of these notes will help you find more if you need it.

I’ve heard some people say that washing wool broke their washer. I’ve never had a problem
Keep the sump clear with bleach
Bleach will dissolve wool and is a great way to test for 100% wool
- If a blend, the non-bleach fibers will still be in the cup
Dryer – keep the vent clear
- A smooth vent will have less build up than a rippled one.
- Avoid softener sheets – they can create a waxy buildup that the fibers stick to