What exactly is this?

[OwlMother]

On the floor under the table?

Rug

Is it a rag rug? And where would I find such a thing?

It doesn't look like a rag rug as I know them, but this type here looks similar - maybe american ones are different to uk ones?

It looks like a rope rug to me

Here

That does look similar, thank you. Maybe need to hunt around a bit more. Or try and find a tutorial....

Rope rug does seem to be it! Thank you! and with a tutorial too!

You're welcome

They always say it's an "easy project", don't they?

it's a plaited rag rug!

Plaited Rag rug! So many things to search for! Will I have to attempt to make it or can they be bought?

Thanks everyone, I've found this site- looks pretty good.

www.braided-rug.co.uk/standard_braids.htm