Step 1

Using a crochet hook, crochet a chain. I use a size K hook, but try different sizes, until you find one that suits you best.

The length of your chain will determine the size of your rug. For a 36x24 inch rug, your chain would need to be 12 inches.
For a 54x22 inch rug, your chain would need to be 32 inches.

Starting the rug is the hardest part. Be sure that your chain lays flat and does not become twisted. I suggest reading
through these steps a couple different times.

For the discussion here, the WORKING STRIP refers to the strip of fabric that has the toothbrush needle on it.

Step 3

Now insert the needle through the same chain you went
through on the last step.

Keep the loop on the needle, point the tip of your needle
toward the working strip, go under the loop.

Keep both of these loops on your needle. Take the loop off of
your thumb and twist it. Place this twisted loop on the needle.

Pull the needle through all loops at once. Make sure you catch
the working fabric strip with your left thumb.

Step 4

You now will have TWO loops on your working
strip.

Now you are ready to make your rug

Continue to repeat the above steps, BUT you will now be working down the chain. Each time working in the next loop on the
chain following the steps on the next page. When you get to the end of the chain, you will work a couple of times in one of the
last loops.

Continue working around to the opposite side. When you reach the opposite side, you will work a couple stitches into that
loop. Each time you reach the end or beginning (depending on your outlook), you will work in the same loop/stitch a couple
different times. How many times will depend on the tighteness of your stitches. Some usually work FIVE stitches in one loop.
To gauge where to place these extra stitches, hold your rug up. It needs to be at the top where the rug curves. On each
round, stagger the placement of the extra stitches.

As this is an oval rug, you are working in a circular manner - round and round. There are technically 4 corners where you
need to increase.

Step 2

Place your left thumb in the last loop of your chain.
Take the toothbrush needle and insert it into the next
chain, part way.

Now take the loop that is on your thumb, off of your
thumb. Give it a twist.

Put the needle into the loop you just twisted (see next
page for twist picture), part way. There should now be
TWO loops of fabric on your needle.

Pull the needle through both of these loops at once.

Notice the way the fabric is placed over the left hand.
You should now have ONE loop on your working strip.

Be sure to catch the working strip with your left thumb.
This is important. You will always be using this thumb
loop as part of your stitch.