The Best Yarn For Crochet Rugs (+ Free Chart)

This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about crocheting rugs and the best yarn for crochet rugs. 

Why Crochet A Rug? 

Crocheting a rug offers numerous benefits. 

It allows you to create a customized and unique home decor piece that perfectly matches your color scheme and style. 

Rugs can add warmth and comfort to any room, making it cozier and more inviting. 

Additionally, crocheted rugs are often durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for high-traffic areas or spaces where spills are common. 

Crochet rugs are also a fantastic way to upcycle old or unused yarn, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. 

It is a creative and practical way to enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality.

A Free Crochet Rug Pattern

Check out this free pattern if you want to make your own crochet rug here. – Crochet Round Rug Pattern.

It’s the perfect rug to place around your home or a gift.

You can easily adjust the size by continuing the circle. 

The perfect project for all makers, including beginner crocheters. 

What Yarn Is Best For Crocheting Rugs?  – How To Choose The Right Yarn

When crocheting rugs, it’s crucial to choose a yarn that is both durable and easy to clean, as carpets tend to experience a lot of wear and tear. 

Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best yarn for crocheting rugs: the yarn weight, the fiber content, durability, washability, texture, and colorfastness

What Size Yarn Is Best For Rug Making?    

Using a bulky or super bulky weight yarn is generally best when making rugs. These thicker yarns create a more substantial and durable rug. 

• Bulky (5) Weight Yarn: This is a common choice for rug making. It’s thick enough to create a sturdy rug and works up relatively quickly. Bulky weight yarn is often used for medium-sized area rugs.
• Super Bulky (6) Weight Yarn: Super bulky yarn is even thicker than bulky yarn and is ideal for creating chunky, plush rugs. It’s especially suitable for large, heavy-duty rugs and provides extra warmth and comfort.
• Jumbo (7) Weight Yarn: Sometimes, you should go even thicker with jumbo weight yarn. This yarn creates incredibly thick and chunky rugs with a luxurious feel. 

However, it’s less common and may not be as readily available as bulky and super bulky yarns.

Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}.

What Yarn Do You Use To Make A Rug?    

When making a rug, the choice of yarn is crucial to ensure that the rug is both durable and functional. 

Some of the best yarn options for rug making include:

1. Cotton Yarn: Cotton is a popular choice for making rugs because it is highly durable, absorbent, and easy to clean. It can withstand heavy foot traffic and frequent washing. Look for 100% cotton or cotton-blend yarns. Mercerized cotton yarns can give your rug a shiny, smooth finish.
2. Wool Yarn: Wool is another excellent option for rug making. It is naturally resilient, so it can bounce back from being compressed by foot traffic. Wool is also good at repelling dirt and stains. However, it can be more expensive than cotton.
3. Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic yarns are budget-friendly and can be a good choice for making rugs, especially if you’re on a tight budget. They are easy to find in bulky or super bulky weights, which work well for rugs. Remember that acrylic may not be as durable as cotton or wool, but it can still produce decent results.
4. A blend of Natural and Synthetic Fibers: Some yarns are a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, such as cotton and polyester or wool and acrylic. These blends can offer the best of both worlds, combining natural fibers’ durability with synthetic ones’ affordability.
5. Rug Yarn: Some yarns are labeled “rug yarn” or “heavy-duty yarn.” These are designed for rug making and are typically made to withstand heavy use.
6. T-Shirt Yarn: T-shirt yarn is made from upcycled cotton T-shirts and is known for its thickness and durability. It creates a unique look for your rugs with a rustic touch.

Learn everything about the different yarn fibers here. – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers. 

What Size A Crochet Hook To Use To Make A Rug?    

The size of the crochet hook you should use to make a rug depends on several factors, including the thickness of the yarn you’re using, your desired stitch pattern, and the texture you want for your rug. 

For most rug-making projects using bulky or super bulky yarn, you’ll want to use a larger hook size to create a looser and more open stitch, which results in a softer and more flexible rug.

• Bulky Weight Yarn: If you’re using bulky weight yarn to make your rug, a hook size in the range of 9.0 mm (M/N) to 12.0 mm (P/Q) is typically suitable. You can start with a larger hook and adjust it based on your preference for the rug’s texture and stiffness.
• Super Bulky Weight Yarn: When using super bulky yarn for your rug, opt for an even larger hook size, such as 15.0 mm (P/Q) or larger. The larger hook size will create bigger stitches and a more open fabric.
• Stitch Pattern and Texture: Consider the stitch pattern you intend to use. If you want a more textured or lacy look for your rug, you may choose a larger hook size than recommended on the yarn label to achieve the desired effect. Conversely, you can go with the recommended hook size if you want a tighter, more dense fabric.
• Personal Preference: Crocheters often have different preferences for hook size, even for the same yarn weight. Experiment with different hook sizes and stitch patterns on a small sample or swatch to see which combination gives you the texture and feel you want for your rug.
• Rug Thickness: Keep in mind that the choice of hook size will affect the thickness and drape of your rug. A larger hook will result in a thinner, more flexible rug, while a smaller one will create a thicker, stiffer one.

What Are The Best Crochet Stitches For A Crochet Rug? 

The best crochet stitches for a crochet rug often depend on the texture and appearance you desire for your rug. 

However, some stitches are commonly used for rug-making projects due to their durability and suitability for high-traffic areas. 

Single crochet (sc) and half double crochet (hdc) are two popular choices. 

Single crochet creates a dense and sturdy fabric, making it ideal for rugs that need to withstand heavy use. 

Half double crochet offers more height and texture while maintaining durability. 

Additionally, using front loop or back loop-only stitches can create interesting textures and patterns on the rug’s surface.

Ultimately, the best crochet stitches for your rug will depend on your design preferences and the level of comfort and durability you want for your finished piece. 

Crochet Rug Sizes – How Much Yarn Do You Need? 

There isn’t a fixed number of crochet rug sizes, as a rug size can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences. 

Common rug sizes and approximate yarn requirements for each size when using bulky, super bulky, and jumbo yarns. 

• Small Rug (e.g., 2’x3′ or 24″x36″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 720-1,000 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 750-1,500 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 400-800 yards.
  • Jumbo Yarn: Approximately 250-500 yards.
• Medium Rug (e.g., 3’x5′ or 36″x60″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 1,800-2,500 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 1,500-3,000 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 800-1,600 yards.
  • Jumbo Yarn: Approximately 500-1,000 yards.
• Large Rug (e.g., 5’x7′ or 60″x84″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 4,200-5,800 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 3,000-6,000 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 1,600-3,200 yards.
  • Jumbo Yarn: Approximately 1,000-2,000 yards.
• Extra-Large Rug (e.g., 8’x10′ or 96″x120″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 8,640-12,000 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 6,000-12,000 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 3,200-6,400 yards.
  • Jumbo Yarn: Approximately 2,000-4,000 yards.

How Many Yards Of Yarn Do You Need For A Bath Mat?

The amount of yarn you need for a bath mat depends on several factors, including the size of the bath mat, the thickness of the yarn, your chosen stitch pattern, and your crochet tension. 

Here’s a rough estimate based on common bath mat sizes and yarn weights:

• Small Bath Mat (Approximately 1.5’x2′ or 18″x24″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 270-375 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 200-300 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 100-200 yards.
• Medium Bath Mat (Approximately  2’x3′ or 24″x36″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 600-825 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 300-500 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 150-300 yards.
• Large Bath Mat (Approximately 3’x4′ or 36″x48″):
  • Worsted Weight Yarn: Approximately 1,350-1,875 yards.
  • Bulky Yarn: Approximately 500-800 yards.
  • Super Bulky Yarn: Approximately 250-500 yards.

Washing A Rug

Washability is another important factor when choosing a yarn for a rug or any project. 

Whether it’s a kitchen rug, a living room rug, or a bathroom one, they go through a lot. 

So, choosing a yarn that’s easy to care for is essential. 

You will find all of the care instructions on the yarn label. 

Learn how to read a yarn label here. – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)

If your yarn is machine washable or it needs to be hand washed. 

It’s always a good idea to visit local craft stores. 

To be able to check out the yarns, feel the strands, and choose the one for you. 

More FAQ About Crocheting A Rug

Can You Make A Rug With Acrylic Yarn?     

You can indeed make a rug with acrylic yarn. 

Acrylic yarn offers a versatile and budget-friendly option for rug-making projects.

While not as durable as some natural fibers like wool, acrylic is still a durable synthetic material that can withstand moderate foot traffic and is relatively resistant to staining. 

It’s also easy to clean and maintain, often allowing for spot cleaning or machine washing. 

With a wide range of colors available, you can easily find acrylic yarn to match your decor, making it a practical choice for creating customized and colorful rugs. 

Just be mindful of UV exposure, as acrylic may not be as resistant to fading as natural fibers, so it’s best suited for indoor or low-sunlight areas.

Are Acrylic Rugs Durable?    

Acrylic rugs can offer a level of durability that makes them suitable for certain applications.

They are known for their resistance to stains, moisture, and fading, which can be advantageous for rugs in areas prone to spills or exposure to sunlight. 

Additionally, acrylic rugs are typically easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas where frequent cleaning may be necessary. 

Their affordability also makes them an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly rug solution.

However, it’s important to note that acrylic rugs may not be as durable as rugs made from natural fibers like wool or cotton.

Acrylic fibers can be more susceptible to pilling, matting, and abrasion over time, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. 

While they can withstand moderate use, they may not hold up as well in the long run compared to rugs made from more robust materials. 

What Kind Of Yarn Do You Use To Tuft A Rug?

It’s essential to use yarn specifically designed for this purpose when tufting a rug, whether by hand or with a tufting machine. 

This specialized yarn, often referred to as “tufting yarn” or “rug tufting yarn,” possesses unique qualities that make it suitable for rug tufting projects.

Firstly, tufting yarn is chosen for its durability. It needs to withstand the stress of being walked on regularly, making durability a top priority. 

Rug tufting yarn is typically made from sturdy and hardwearing materials like acrylic, wool, or a blend of fibers that can endure the wear and tear of daily use.

Secondly, tufting yarn is available in various thicknesses, allowing you to achieve your rug’s desired pile height and texture. 

The thicker yarn creates a plush and soft surface, while thinner yarn can produce a lower pile or more intricate designs. 

The choice of yarn thickness depends on your design preferences and the intended use of the rug. 

Additionally, tufting yarn is often treated or processed to resist stains, making it easier to clean and maintain over time, which is particularly important for rugs placed in high-traffic areas of the home.

Crochet Lessons

If you are a new maker and need help with the crochet basics, check out the crochet lessons here – Crochet Lessons {With Video Tutorials}.

There, you will find tutorial posts for all the crochet techniques a newbie needs to know. 

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

Happy Crocheting!