Registration for this class opens to MMFS members on November 10, and then to the general public on November 12, 2026. Not a member yet? You can sign up here.
Rug braiding is a simple, meditative way to create something for your home, and it connects us to past traditions of giving scrap of fabric a purpose. Wool braided rugs have a deep folk art history and are symbols of resourcefulness: early American colonists made braided rugs from old clothing and fabric scraps, to keep floors warm and to minimize waste.
In this class, each student will make a small braided rug, either oval or circle (about 2’ x 3’), and will learn the techniques needed to continue braiding at home. Rug braided with colorful blanket-weight wool will provide an opportunity to play with texture, colors, and patterns.
Note: this is a 2-day class, taking place Saturday, February 6 and Saturday, February 13, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM each day.
The class is spaced 1 week apart with the intention of encouraging students to continue working on their rug between classes.
About the Instructor: Laura Brown
Your instructor will provide the following materials:
The instructor will provide each participant with a kit to purchase ($50-$75) containing all the tools except the wool: braidaids, a braidkin, and cotton thread. The instructor will also have clamps, a cutting mat, ruler, rotary cutter, and needles and thread available for use during class.
Students are asked to bring:
- A few pounds of blanket- or coat-weight wool (about 1-3 blankets or coats). Note: skirt- or suit-weight wool is a little too thin, and felted wool is too thick for braiding. The instructor will have a very limited amount of wool available for purchase during class.
- Payment for purchasing a rug braiding kit from the instructor (kits will be ~$50-$75 – cash, check, or electronic payment app, ie venmo, cashapp accepted). Note: if you’d prefer to source your own rug braiding kit materials, a supply list will be shared with registrants before the class.
- Scissors for cutting fabric, and snips for cutting thread if you’d like
- Tape measure
- Straight pins
- Since your class runs over the lunch hour, we recommend you bring lunch or click HERE to learn about local eating opportunities.
Skill Level
No experience required.
Age Requirement
Students ages 16 and older are welcome to attend this class. Students ages 16 and 17 may attend without a parent/guardian in attendance as long as MMFS is provided with written parental permission by email to info@marinemillsfolkschool.org.
Location Details
Marine Mills Folk School
550 Pine Street
Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047
Cost Details
Tuition: $200
Materials Fee: $0 (supply kit will be available to purchase directly from instructor for $50-$75 during class)
Total Cost: $200
Note: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy here.
