Dutchess County Rug Hookers Guild

Welcome

Welcome to the Dutchess County Rug Hooking Guild website. Whether you're a first time visitor, prospective member or an established member, you should find whatever information you are looking for about the club here.

Guild Objectives

The objective of the Guild is to promote and teach the art of traditional rug hooking, a distinctively North American craft. The technique consists of using a rug hooking tool to pull strips of cut fabric, usually wool, through a loosely woven backing, such as burlap or linen, that has been marked with an outlined design. Each meeting brings together members seeking to preserve and perpetuate this traditional craft. Members help one another by using the “big sister method of teaching”, and by supporting and praising each other’s work.

History of the Club

In 1958 and 1959 a group of women participated in an Adult Education Rug Hooking class, taught by Mrs. Irene Snell, at the Arlington High School. Unfortunately, when the instructor moved out of the area, the course was dropped. The group wanted to continue with their work and decided to form a Guild. The first formal meeting was held on January 12, 1960. That original group has grown to its current status as an organized chartered Guild, looking forward to celebrating its 60th Anniversary in 2020.