Flokati rugs are beloved for their lush, shaggy texture and cozy appearance. Whether you’re repairing an old flokati or crafting one yourself, choosing the right thread is crucial for ensuring durability and maintaining its soft feel. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about selecting the best thread for lacing flokati rugs.
1. What Are Flokati Rugs?
Flokati rugs originated in Greece and are traditionally made from 100% wool. They have a shaggy, high-pile texture that offers both warmth and aesthetic appeal. These rugs require careful handling, especially when it comes to stitching or lacing them back together for repairs or customizations.
2. Why Lacing Matters for Flokati Rugs
Lacing is an important technique for joining two pieces of a rug, mending tears, or adding reinforcements. Since flokati rugs are plush and heavy, you need a strong, durable thread to hold the seams together without compromising the rug’s softness and flexibility.
3. Best Thread Options for Lacing Flokati Rugs
Choosing the right thread is essential for achieving both strength and subtlety. Below are some of the best options:
Polyester Thread
- Strength: High tensile strength
- Durability: Resistant to wear, moisture, and stretching
- Why it’s Ideal: Polyester thread is commonly used in upholstery work and is perfect for flokati rugs because it can handle tension without breaking. It’s also colorfast, which helps if you need to match the rug’s color.
Waxed Cotton Thread
- Strength: Moderate strength with added grip
- Durability: Slightly prone to wear over time, but the wax coating improves longevity
- Why it’s Ideal: The waxed texture ensures that the thread stays in place, preventing it from slipping out of the rug fibers. It also offers a natural feel, which works well with wool flokati rugs.
Nylon Thread
- Strength: Exceptionally strong
- Durability: Resistant to moisture, mildew, and abrasion
- Why it’s Ideal: Nylon thread is often used in heavy-duty stitching and is perfect for large flokati rugs that require extra reinforcement. It holds up well over time, even under heavy foot traffic.
4. Comparing Thread Strengths: Which One Should You Use?
| Thread Type | Strength | Durability | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester Thread | High | Excellent | Everyday use, minor repairs |
| Waxed Cotton Thread | Moderate | Good | Decorative stitching or light lacing |
| Nylon Thread | Very High | Excellent | Heavy-duty lacing and large seams |
If you’re lacing a heavily used rug, nylon or polyester thread would be the best choice. However, if you prefer a more natural finish, waxed cotton thread is ideal for lighter, decorative stitching.
5. Tools You’ll Need for Lacing a Flokati Rug
Before you start lacing, gather these essential tools:
- Thread (nylon, polyester, or waxed cotton)
- Large-eye needle (thick enough to accommodate the thread)
- Thimble (for easy pushing of the needle through dense wool)
- Scissors
- Measuring tape (for precise stitching)
6. Step-by-Step Guide to Lace a Flokati Rug
Step 1: Prepare the Rug
- Lay the rug flat and brush out any tangled fibers.
- Align the sections you want to lace together.
Step 2: Thread the Needle
- Cut a long piece of thread, about 3-4 times the length of the seam you’re lacing.
- Use a thimble to push the needle through thick wool sections.
Step 3: Begin Lacing
- Start at one end of the seam and make a simple whip stitch along the edges.
- Pull the thread tight after every stitch to ensure the seam is secure.
Step 4: Reinforce the Seams
- After completing the seam, stitch back in the opposite direction for added strength.
7. How to Maintain and Care for Laced Flokati Rugs
- Vacuum regularly using a handheld attachment to keep the fibers clean.
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture over the rug to prevent damage to the seams.
- Spot-clean with mild detergent and air-dry to maintain the softness of the wool.
For areas that experience heavy traffic, consider reinforcing the seams with extra stitching every few years to prolong the rug’s life.
8. Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Thread Selection
The best thread for lacing flokati rugs depends on the intended use of the rug. Polyester and nylon threads offer the durability needed for heavily used or large rugs, while waxed cotton thread provides a softer, more natural look for decorative lacing.
By choosing the right thread and following the correct lacing techniques, you can repair, customize, or extend the life of your flokati rug. With proper care, these beautiful wool rugs can continue to bring warmth and style to your space for many years.
