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Friendship is a Sheltering Tree was my third project in rug hooking and my first time using a commercial pattern. I typically enjoy creating my own designs, but using someone else’s as a base was both inspiring and encouraging. It allowed me to connect with the legacy of artist Pris Butler, and I’m grateful for the foundation she provided. It was a rewarding experience to bring her pattern to life while adding my own personal touch.
I love the rich colors of the peacock feathers and how a simple change in value or shade creates a sense of movement. The way the colors blend and shift brings the design to life, adding depth and fluidity that makes this section stand out.
The most challenging part was choosing colors for the background leaves, as everything I had was too dark and distracting. To achieve the lightest of lights, I used the predominant dark wool from the border to create a weak dye bath and quickly dipped some white wool, resulting in the perfect shade of green. This approach allowed me to integrate the colors more harmoniously, maintaining balance in the design without overpowering it.
I finished the rug with 100-percent worsted-weight wool yarn in black from our local specialty yarn shop, using Cindi Gay’s corner-finishing technique from YouTube.
Through hooking this rug, I learned that using the wool I have on hand, along with a mix of shades and values, adds unexpected depth and interest to a piece. Experimenting with textures and colors showed me how small variations can create movement and dimension, reinforcing that rug hooking is both a creative and evolving process.
From the Judges:
The balance of the bold hues and softer, neutral background enhances the composition and provides depth. The border adds an additional layer of sophistication, framing the scene beautifully. Striking interpretation of this pattern.
Friendship is a Sheltering Tree, 41″ x 32″, #4- to 6-cut wool on linen. Designed by Pris Butler and hooked by Ellarie Rosales, Greensboro, North Carolina, 2024.
Ellarie Rosales
GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
Ellarie began rug hooking in 2023 and finds joy in the rhythm of wool, color, and creativity. She draws daily inspiration from her faith in Jesus, the beauty of nature, and the sweet smiles of her new grandbaby. As a member of the Piedmont Rug Hooking Guild, she treasures the friendship and encouragement the guild offers. Together with her husband, she stays closely connected to her six children, whose love and lives continue to inspire her. Outside her hooking frame, Ellarie serves in her church, practices social work, and stays active through CrossFit.