Get Hooked on Hooky and Proggy Mats

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Preparing the Hessian or Sacking
4. Marking and Cutting the Hessian
5. Hemming the Edges
6. Designing and Drawing the Pattern
7. Choosing and Cutting the Wool Strips
8. Getting Started with Hooking
9. Creating the Proggy Design
10. Tips for Neat and Efficient Hooking
11. Finishing and Mounting the Proggy

Introduction

Welcome to this step-by-step guide on how to make a proggy or hooky mat! Whether You call them proggy, poke, pegged, or kiki, these colorful textiles have a long history and can be a wonderful addition to your home decor. In this article, I will walk you through the process of creating your own proggy mat, from preparing the materials to finishing and mounting the final piece. Let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before we dive into the process, let's Gather all the materials you'll need for making a proggy mat:

1. Hessian or Sacking: This open-weave Fabric will serve as the base for your mat.
2. Sharp scissors: Ensure you have a pair of sharp scissors to easily cut the materials.
3. Wool or fabric strips: These will be used for hooking and creating the design on the mat.
4. Sewing machine or needle and thread: You can choose to sew the edges with a machine or HAND stitch them.
5. Frame or trestles: You'll need a frame or trestles to secure the Hessian while working on it.
6. Hooking tool: A specialized hooking tool will help you pull the wool or fabric through the Hessian.
7. Drawing materials: Chalk or felt pens can be used to draw the design on the Hessian.
8. Dowel or wooden batten: This will be used for hanging the finished mat, if desired.
9. Twine or STRING: This will be used to hang the mat, if you choose to add a hanging mechanism.
10. Optional: colored paints or dyes for customizing your wool or fabric strips.

Gather these materials and let's move on to the next step.

Preparing the Hessian or Sacking

The first step in making a proggy mat is preparing the Hessian or sacking. Hessian is a Durable and open-weave fabric that is perfect for the hooking process. Cut out a piece of Hessian according to the desired size of your mat. Remember to leave a few extra inches on all sides for folding and hemming.

To ensure a straight and clean edge, pull out a thread along the grain of the fabric and use that as a guide for cutting. This will prevent fraying and ensure a neat finish.

Once the Hessian is cut, it's time to hem the edges. Fold the fabric under about half an inch and secure it with pins or clips. If you have a sewing machine, you can stitch the hem using a straight stitch. If not, you can hand stitch the hem, making sure to turn the edges under neatly as you go.

Marking and Cutting the Hessian

After hemming the edges, mark the area where you want your design to be on the Hessian. This can be a simple Shape or a more complex pattern, depending on your preference. Use chalk or a felt pen to draw the Outline of your design directly on the Hessian.

To ensure accuracy and symmetry, you can use a GRID system by drawing a grid over your design and copying it onto the Hessian. This will help you keep everything in the right proportion and place.

Once you are satisfied with the design, it's time to cut the fabric strips. For hooking, you can use wool or fabric strips. Cut the strips to a width of about 5/8 of an inch (or approximately 1.5 centimeters). Make sure the strips are long enough to comfortably work with.

Hemming the Edges

With the design marked and the fabric strips cut, it's time to start hooking. Before you begin, you need to prepare the edges of the Hessian for a neat finish. Fold the edges under and secure them with pins or clips. If using a sewing machine, stitch along the folded edges to hold them in place. If sewing by hand, turn the edges under neatly and stitch them in place.

Hemming the edges is crucial as it provides stability to the mat and ensures the loops won't unravel or catch on anything. Take your time with this step to achieve a clean and professional-looking finish.

Designing and Drawing the Pattern

Now that the Hessian is prepared and the edges are hemmed, it's time to transfer your design onto the fabric. Using chalk or a felt pen, carefully draw the outline of your design on the Hessian. Take into consideration the colors and placement of the wool or fabric strips.

If you're feeling creative, you can experiment with different Patterns and motifs. Proggy mats offer endless possibilities for design, so embrace your artistic instincts and have fun with it!

Choosing and Cutting the Wool Strips

One of the key elements of making a proggy mat is the choice and cutting of the wool or fabric strips. Select colors that complement your design and consider the thickness and texture of the material. Thicker wool or felted fabrics work best for the hooking process.

Using sharp scissors, cut the wool or fabric into strips. The width of the strips should be approximately 5/8 of an inch (or 1.5 centimeters) for an even and consistent look. Take your time with this step to ensure the strips are cut neatly and accurately.

Getting Started with Hooking

With all the preparations in place, it's time to start hooking! Hold the hooking tool like a pen, with the hook facing upwards. This position allows for smooth and efficient hooking. Place your non-dominant hand underneath the fabric, ready to catch the wool or fabric loops.

Starting at one end of your design, push the hooking tool through the Hessian, making a hole for the wool or fabric strip. Slide the tool back, ensuring the hook doesn't catch on the fabric. This technique helps prevent the loops from snagging or pulling.

Take a strip of wool or fabric and fold it in half. Insert the folded end through the hole made by the hooking tool. Use your non-dominant hand to catch the folded end and pull it through the Hessian. This will Create a loop on the front side of the mat. Repeat this process, working row by row and following your design.

Remember to vary the colors and textures of the wool or fabric strips to add depth and interest to your proggy mat. Take breaks as needed and enjoy the meditative and creative process of hooking.

Creating the Proggy Design

As you Continue hooking, your design will start to take shape. The loops of wool or fabric will Blend together to form a textured and vibrant surface. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and color combinations. Allow your creativity to flow and make adjustments to the design as you go.

If you're creating a more intricate or complex design, it may be helpful to work in sections or blocks. This will help you maintain the overall balance and symmetry of the mat. Take your time and enjoy the process of bringing your design to life!

Tips for Neat and Efficient Hooking

As you work on your proggy mat, here are some tips to ensure neat and efficient hooking:

1. Maintain consistent tension: Keep the tension on the fabric strips neither too loose nor too tight. This will create an even and uniform surface.

2. Choose the right hooking tool: Use a hooking tool that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a smooth hooking motion. Experiment with different sizes and styles to find the one that suits you best.

3. Practice rhythm and technique: Find a rhythm and technique that works for you. Practice pulling the loops through the Hessian in a fluid and efficient motion.

4. Blend colors and textures: Experiment with blending different colors and textures to create depth and visual interest in your design. Use a mix of solid colors, variegated yarns, and patterned fabrics for a dynamic effect.

5. Take breaks and step back: As you work on your proggy mat, take breaks to rest your hands and step back to assess the overall design. This will help you spot any areas that may need adjustment or additional detailing.

6. Embrace imperfections: Remember that proggy mats are handmade and each one is unique. Embrace any imperfections or variations in your design, as they add character and Charm to the finished piece.

Finishing and Mounting the Proggy

Once you have completed the hooking process and are satisfied with your design, it's time to finish and mount your proggy mat. Trim any excess fabric strips on the backside of the Hessian, leaving a clean and even surface.

To mount your proggy mat, you can stitch it onto a backing fabric or attach it to a wooden frame. Stitching the mat onto a backing fabric will provide additional stability and protection. If you prefer to hang your mat, you can attach a sleeve or pocket to the back and insert a wooden dowel or batten. This will allow you to hang your proggy mat on the wall.

With the finishing touches complete, step back and admire your beautiful and unique proggy mat. It's a testament to your creativity and craftsmanship!

Conclusion

Making a proggy or hooky mat is a delightful and fulfilling craft that allows you to create beautiful and personalized textiles for your home. From the preparations to the hooking process and finishing touches, every step offers an opportunity to express your creativity and enjoy the art of handcrafting.

Remember to take your time, experiment with colors and textures, and savor the meditative process of hooking. Whether you use traditional designs or create your own unique patterns, your proggy mat will add warmth and character to any room.

So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and embark on the Journey of making your very own proggy mat. Happy hooking!