How to Make a Gnome Rug

Gnome rugs add whimsical charm to homes and make a thoughtful gift for loved ones. They can be used as wall hangings to brighten up any room or they can be placed on hard floors in high-traffic areas like foyers and hallways. These rugs are crafted from durable materials that are easy to clean and fade-resistant. They are available in a variety of colors and patterns to suit any home decor style, from traditional to contemporary.

Gnomes are mythical beings with a rich history. They are believed to be nocturnal guardians of the earth, often hiding their personal stashes of buried treasure in underground caves. They are also said to be skilled at smithing and engineering, with the ability to create machines and mechanisms. They can also change their appearance to fit in with the surrounding environment, being seen as small wild men, dwarves, or even taller than humans.

Throughout history, gnomes have been associated with the natural world, symbolizing fertility, growth, and the natural cycles of the seasons. Their presence in the garden is thought to promote a sense of connection with nature and serve as a reminder of our role as caretakers of this planet. Today, gnomes are found in garden designs from around the world, including traditional stone or ceramic figurines and contemporary fibreglass gnomes engaging in whimsical activities.

While I don’t think we can expect these little guys to work any real magic, they certainly do bring a smile to our face! So if you’re looking for an easy project to keep your hands busy and your coffee mug warm, give this cute Gnome Mug Rug pattern by Caroline a try. It’s a great way to use fabric scraps, and it’s sure to put a smile on your face whenever you take a sip of hot cocoa.

To make this mug rug, you’ll need a fat eighth of blender fabric, two fat quarters of holiday prints, and a handful of fat eighths of pom pom trim (or another matching coordinating stripe). You’ll also need some fusible interfacing, such as Bondaweb, to stabilize the applique pieces. The interfacing has a glue side and a smooth paper side. Stack the strips, with the rough side down and the glue side facing up, then trace and cut out the gnome template using the template guide line.

Next, stitch the applique pieces to the background fabric, using your preferred method. I like to use a simple running stitch, but you can also sew by hand or with your machine. Trim the pom pom trims to the size you want them to be, then baste them to the edges of your applique piece.

Lastly, finish the top edge of the mug rug by folding over a 1/4” seam allowance and whipstitching it in place. Don’t worry about perfect neatness here, as this will be covered by the pom pom trims.

You’ll love the warm and cozy feel of this gnome rug, whether you use it in your living room to curl up on the sofa or in your bedroom as a bedside accessory. The colorful and vibrant design will complement a wide range of interior styles, from traditional to contemporary, and the soft, plush microfiber material is both comfortable and durable.