Innovating a time-honored art, Claudia Mills revamps rag rugs with a modern twist. These vibrant handwoven creations, born in a small production setting, stand out in a world of mass-manufactured textiles. With individual designs and site-specific customization, Claudia seamlessly blends contemporary vibrancy with traditional warmth.
About Claudia Mills Rugs
As you approach Claudia Mills Studio in Philadelphia’s historic Old City, a unique allure of creativity fills the air. Housed in a four-story 1918 commercial building, the entrance is framed by mint green painted structural elements, enveloped by sheet glass windows. This shopfront emanates a welcoming radiance, offering a glimpse into Claudia Mills’ world.
Dubbed the ‘storefront studio,’ this space is a multi-faceted gem. It serves as both a ragrug-weaving and production studio, a workshop, and a retail sanctuary. Passersby often exhibit surprised expressions, revealing a curiosity about rug-making they had never considered before. Mills’ relocation to this new studio in November 2020 was a direct invitation for public engagement with the artistry behind the rugs.
Inside, visitors are greeted by the mesmerizing sight of three Swedish-style Cranbrook looms, operated by Mills, Jennifer Clark, and Morgan Kuensel. The looms, two five feet wide and one four feet wide, play an essential role in their creative dance. Compressing fabric strips with loom beaters and threading yarn through the weave, these skilled weavers craft continuous rugs that are later meticulously cut apart and hand-finished.
The studio exudes woman power, with all three artists contributing to the Jennifer Clark Collection sold alongside Claudia Mills’ creations. Stitches from Mills’ hands seamlessly blend rug widths, shaping custom sizes. Amid this artistic haven, cotton yarns and fabric strips are a vivid symphony of hues, punctuated by Mills’ imaginative color choices, influenced by sources as diverse as iconic posters and nature’s palette.
Mills’ philosophy has evolved from rugs being floor-bound to embracing them as vibrant wall art. Her studio’s textiles mirror this transformation, spurring visitors to do the same at home. As a proud advocate of American craftsmanship, Mills embodies the essence of ‘made in America,’ a journey all can witness within the walls of her studio.