The Hunterdon County Rug Artisans Guild was founded in April 1977. We currently have over 90 members from seven states. The mission of the Guild is to perpetuate the tradition and art of rug hooking, to encourage creativity, to provide the means for an exchange of ideas and information and to promote educational activities to enhance the interest in rug hooking.

Monthly meetings in Flemington, New Jersey offer programs for someone new to rug hooking as well as the seasoned artisan. Members have opportunities to participate in hooking demonstrations, rug exhibits, rug camps and “hook-ins”. A supportive environment is provided for those new to the craft and for those looking to refine their technique. New members are always welcome! For more information please contact Guild co-president Weezie Huntington at weezie711@gmail.com

From the President's Corner
November is the time when we traditionally pause to reflect and give thanks for all that we are so fortunate to have. As Guild members, we give thanks for being part of the rug hooking community.

Some of us were fortunate to be introduced to rug hooking early in life though family members such as mothers, grandparents, aunts or uncles.  Others came to rug hooking later in life, perhaps after years of applying themselves to some other form of handwork. Some of us found our way to rug hooking after retiring from professional life and were in search of a creative outlet. Others were attracted by the historical aspects of traditional rug hooking.  What ever the route we came by, we are fortunate to be here now.

We are fortunate that rug hooking accommodates a wide range of creative interests and styles. Our craft/art allows self expression for those who are attracted to the primitive style and those who find challenge and satisfaction in the incredible results possible with fine cut and shading techniques.  The growing interest in mixed media and multiple hooking techniques offers yet other opportunities for self expression within our rug hooking family.

Many rug hookers see themselves as traditionalists following in the footsteps of 19th Century women who found creative expression while producing functional rugs for their homes.  Other members of our community see themselves primarily as fiber artists and feel strongly that it is important to find self expression through their hooking. Are we not fortunate to be involved with an activity that accommodates both ends of the spectrum?

We are fortunate to have available to us many local rug hooking resources.  There are talented instructors who teach and motivate us.  There are open studios, workshops and camps in which we can participate. There are numerous vendors offering beautifully dyed and/or new wool.

We are fortunate to have a vibrant and healthy Guild. We have officers who work hard and members who support the Guild in many ways.  Of course, best of all is that we have each other.  We learn from each other. We draw inspiration from each other and we enjoy each other.

Whatever our perspective or preferred style, the simple step of pulling loops ties us together and takes us back in time to when a woman in New England took a piece of charcoal from the fireplace and drew a simple pattern on a burlap bag.  Yes, we have much for which to be thankful.

Keep on hooking! Weezie

For more information, please contact
weezie711@gmail.com