The technique used to make this patched rug, called "button" or "patchwork," involved the application, by stitching, of small square and/or circular patches to the foundation ground. (Typically, the small patch was folded in fourths and sewn through the folded point.) When the patches are sewn close together, the appearance of the rug is similar to that of hooked rugs that have been sheared. According to the accession records, this rug was purchased at the Shoemaker sale, AAA #221.