Scandinavian Rug History:

Traditional Scandinavian Rugs date back to the 1800’s and are originally called “räsymatto” (räsy/rag and matto/rug) because old clothing was used to create the rugs. They provide a story from the past as you were able to remember your favourite old dress or shirt that was woven into the rug. The rag rug is a part of a typical Finnish home. It can’t be missed if you go for a visit.

Weaving a rag rug is a typical craft that has been passed on from one generation to the next. In general, female family members have taken this skill forward. Rag rugs were first used as blankets but from there they moved to the floors and walls of dwellings in the 19th century.

Placed on floors rag rugs work well as insulation in Scandinavia because the winter is cold and long. With rag rugs you could cover the whole floor surface area by placing them side by side. The idea of a sustainable rag rug has been there since the beginning and it has always used recycled home textiles.

Photo credits: Finnish Heritage Agency / Nikkilä, Kyytinen, Vahter / circa 1930-37