Born of a desire to make something other than a rag rug from rag-yarn, the beauty of the design is that I made it on a whim using what was available to me, so there is a sense of improvisation with it while maintaining its cohesion as a functional accessory.

I think the asymmetry of the design gives it a sophistication not otherwise present in the essence of “rags”.

Wear simply as a shawlette or wrap around the neck twice for a chunky-cowl that hugs the neck with enough fabric left for a classy drape.

I sincerely hope you enjoy creating and wearing this as much as I do (or more!). This is a good way to take clothing you might not wear but don’t want to part with, and give it new life by transforming it into something you will wear, cultivating sentimental depth to the newly created article.

Additional Materials

• 2 Large Button (approx. 1”/2.5cm), smaller can work as well
• Sewing Needle
• Sewing Thread

Alternatively to a button, you could tie a large knot with your rag-yarn scraps and attach it to form the button.

Sizing
Beginning chain is a multiple of 4, + 8. Customize length by making any multiple of 4 chains to desired length, then work 8 more chains (these 8 function as the first chain-loop feature of the first row).

Sample pictured with tongue sticking out (it was a little tight because the starting chain was shorter than in pattern) and the two photos above it feature a piece made with a larger hook, a shorter starting chain, and the first 3 rows of the pattern--a different look!

Yarns
Original sample uses 4 various rag yarns cut to about 3/8”/9.375mm width. Other samples feature spun 2-ply rag yarns. If you don’t know how to spin, this may be a good entry point as there is no drafting involved. I have used a 14” straight knitting needle in lieu of a spindle to spin rag yarns, you can too! Spinning helps to strengthen what may otherwise be a weak rag-yarn.

Depending on the size of clothing from which you cut the rag yarn, you will probably only need about one sleeve of an adult’s long sleeved shirt for each color or one pant leg if cutting from pants.

Tips

• There are myriad ways to form rag yarn from clothing, I outline my method below, which takes a lot of time, but (in my experience) leaves you with the most possible yarn from the garment being cut. Choose what makes you happy :)

• To get the most yarn from your clothing, pick seams apart from various clothing, separating article into pieces. (This may take some time). Iron the clothing pieces thoroughly to remove manufacturer’s creases as best as possible (steam helps on steam-able fabrics). Use good & sharp fabric scissors, if available, to make 1/4” - 3/8”/6.25mm - 9.375mm cuts. Stopping the cut before the end, turn and cut back in the other direction so you have one continuous strand rather than several strands to join later. This method of cutting will leave little corner “tags” along the yarn which add interesting texture to the fabric. Wind into balls or wrap around toilet paper or paper towel tubes for long-term storage.

• Alternate rows of synthetics with heavier cottons so that your hands do not tire needlessly.

• Crochet loosely. Let your hands relax and enjoy the largeness of it all.

• If you run out of yarn, take it as an opportunity to rest your crochet muscles and cut some more yarn from your fabrics/clothing.

• Rag yarn, especially denim, tends to fray & shed plenty at first. Work with a towel or blanket over your lap, and shake it off outside when you’re done working or just need a break. Those with pulmonary conditions may need to wear a face covering.