Recycling Terrycloth Towels

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-924 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Colorful terrycloth braids sewn in a circle makes a wonderful accent rug.
Recycle old bath towels by transforming them into plush braided rugs. Designer Mimi Basseri shows how.

Materials:

old towels
scissors
needle and thread
clamps
semicircular needle

Steps:


  1. Cut old towels into 1-/2 inch strips.
PHOTO

Figure A
  • Fold the three ends of the strips of a braid into thirds (to compress the end) and lay them on top of each other. Hold the ends firmly and sew the ends together (figure A).

  • Clamp the ends to a counter or chair. Turn the raw edges under as you begin braiding the strips. Braid as many strips as you need for whatever size rug you are making.
    • PHOTO

    Figure B
  • For a circular rug, turn the end of one strip in on itself, starting a roll. Continue rolling the strip two to three turns. Using a semicircular needle, sew the starting rolls together in large, crisscross stitches (figure B). You could also do an oval shape.

  • Continue rolling the strips to increase the size of your rug. Add colors of your design, sewing as you go.
    • Guests
    Mimi Basseri
    Artist / Designer / Owner, Mimi a la Mode
    Monterey, CA
    Phone: 831-333-0202
    Toll-free: 800-959-6859
    E-mail: mimi25@ix.Netcom.com
    Also in this Episode
    Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-924
    •Bedtime Beauty Secrets
    •Preventing Paint Peel
    •Recycling Terrycloth Towels
    •Smart Solution of the Day