The Festival 500 exhibit is the third project for the Five Island Rug Hooking Group. The core group, formed in 2008, consists of about twenty girls and women, with another ten or a dozen becoming involved in projects of particular interest to them. The group specializes in creating one of a kind, originally designed story rugs related to a theme.Projects begin with a planning meeting, followed by several design workshops. The rug hooking is done at home with biweekly gatherings that provide a great opportunity for sharing ideas and materials, monitoring progress and offering support. Projects generally end with an exhibit. Being able to create beautiful rugs, and at the same time share in the camaraderie and network of friendships that has developed, makes this a very special group.