Laurie Musselman has been working at her antique loom for 35 years, weaving corduroy, denim, and brightly-colored cloth into beautiful and practical rugs. Each rug is made from repurposed materials--old jeans, shirts, pants, and skirts. "Instead of heading to a landfill, these old clothes find a new purpose on my loom."

Musselman prepares the clothes for weaving by cutting them into long, thin strips, before weaving them between long strands of warp, tied to the ends of her large floor loom. The end result is both beautiful and durable. “They’re incredibly sturdy and last for years and years. Unlike store-bought rugs that might have a coating or backing on them, the rugs I make can be easily washed and won’t lose their shape or fall apart in the wash.”

The Lowry-based artisan will be joining other makers, vintage dealers, and food vendors at the inaugural Starbuck Vintage & Artisan Market. Be ready to stock up on birthday and Christmas gifts--Musselman will also have jams and jellies for sale.