Delsie's History

I am the fourth generation of women in my Northeast Kingdom family to braid woolen rugs. I was inspired by the complex artistry my Great-Grandmother drew out of this simple craft over a century ago. Despite her use of worn clothing and remnants, she created stunning overall patterns in her rugs, using the dyepot to express her sense of color. Her innovative pinwheel design breaks all rug-making conventions, and I try to carry forward that spirit of experimentation and playfulness in my own work.
View another of Nettie's rugs      Restore to Original

My traditional rugs are a rediscovery of unusual 19th century shapes found in farmhouses and antique photographs. The landscape rugs are my own blend of traditional construction techniques, and an attempt to explore and challenge the limitations of the braided form. My designs are influenced by the views surrounding my home, with particular focus on the dynamic qualities of the sky at dawn and dusk. The designs are not drawn or graphed out, but instead evolve from a firm idea of the general composition.

Frequent color changes from a rich and varied palette of wool solids, plaids, and tweeds are braided in to achieve the composition's depth and texture. The gauge of the braid requires an impressionistic style, reducing the abundance of texture and color to the most essential. All rugs are hand-laced in the traditional manner with cotton rug cording for durability.
As is the custom, each rug is titled for its inspiration, and dated. I make only 30-40 rugs in a year; each is intended to endure as a one-of-a-kind heirloom. I do periodic rug braiding demonstrations for museums, historical societies, schools and heritage events.
Restore picture of Delsie Working