The Rug Hooking Store at Black Horse Antiques

Don't let the name fool you. Although Black Horse Antiques does boast a nice collection of antiques, this place is a rug hooker's mecca.I found Black Horse online, and made the drive to Valley during a recent trip to Omaha. Rug hooking has always intrigued me, so I decided to stop by and check it out.The owner is EXTREMELY helpful. Although I had NO CLUE what I was doing, she invited me to sit down and watch the rug hookers work on their projects for a while. She gave me a basic tutorial, and then set me up with a beginner's kit-- a stand to hold the project, a hook, and a pattern and wool to get me started. When I expressed concern about getting it onto the airplane, she shipped it to me. She also gave me a handout full of tips and tricks, and told me to give her a call the next time I'm coming through Omaha. She offered to meet me (even if it's on a day when they're closed) to review my project, provide feedback, and show me some finishing techniques.This store had a HUGE inventory of patterns and projects-- from small wall hangings to MEGA rugs for your floor. And the selection of wools and hooks was impressive.I would definitely go out of my way to stop in Omaha next time I'm driving across Nebraska-- this place is worth the trip!