Elspeth Jackson (Ragged Life)

Hi, I'm Elspeth Jackson - rag rug expert and author of "Rag Rug Techniques for Beginners" and "Rag Rugs, Pillows & More". I'm also the founder of Ragged Life, a one-stop shop for everything rag rug related. That's to say, kits, tools, materials, workshops and inspiration.

My passion is turning old clothing, fabric offcuts and "rags" into beautiful upcycled pieces for the home. The resulting rugs, cushions, wall hangings and more are not only practical, but are imbued with memories. You will always recognise the fabrics that make up your creations!

It was my mum, Victoria, who first taught me how to rag rug when I was only fourteen. My first creation was a little bit dicey, but I fell in love with the mindful process of rag rug making, as well as the creative process of pairing different colours, patterns and textures together. Since then I've appeared on TV, teach at the largest craft fairs here in the UK, regularly feature in magazines across the world and have won awards, including the Mollie Makes "Best Established Business" Award 2019.

As well as being a full-time crafter, I'm a big fan of gardening, fabric hoarding and strong cups of Yorkshire tea.