Nothing Says Grenfell Like
Our World Famous Hooked Rugs

Hand-hooked rugs have a unique quality that make any room extra warm and cozy. For over a century, Grenfell hooked rugs have garnished the homes of families around the world. Early-day Grenfell rugs are frequently snatched up by antique collectors, auctioned off, or donated to museums.

The beauty of a Grenfell rug is only surpassed by its antiquity, mystery and charm. Originated out of the need for warm floor covering, modern hooked rugs are intended for use as wall hangings.

Rug hooking was a tradition in the northern Newfoundland and Labrador area before Dr. Grenfell's arrival. A bent nail, with the head removed and a nick cut into the blunt end, was used to draw strips worn clothing, up to 200 loops per inch, through burlap sacks, or "brin" as it was locally called. The burlap was stretched and nailed onto a four-sided wooden frame.

The materials, mostly woolens, flannel, and fishing nets, were dyed using vegetable dyes, spruce twigs, copperas, lime and powder of various colours. Patterns, many designed by Dr. Grenfell himself, reflecting the lifestyles of the area were stencilled onto discarded x-ray film from the hospital. These patterns were then traced onto the burlap and given to local women to hook in their own homes. Those not fortunate enough to gain access to "preprinted" or "stamped mats" drew patterns on the surface of the brin using a charred stick from the fireplace.

As the beauty and demand for hooked rugs grew, the necessary materials became scarce. Silk stockings became a perfect substitute. Dr. Grenfell's campaign slogan, "When your stocking begins to run, let it run to Labrador", brought donations of discarded silk stockings from affluent socialites as far as the southern United States. These stockings were washed, torn into strips and dyed.

The true art of hooked rugs continues at Grenfell Handicrafts. The process remains virtually unchanged over the years although quality yarn is used in place of rags and silk stockings. The rugs are still hooked by local people in their own homes just as it was over 100 years ago.

For information on pricing or to receive brochures please contact us by:

Email: info@grenfell-properties.com
Phone: (709) 454-3576
Fax: (709) 454-2123
Mailing Address:
Grenfell Handicrafts Ltd.
P.O. Box 280
St. Anthony, NF
A0K 4S0