So I want to make this rug: http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mcf4oi8WDi1qb83abo1_500.jpg

I've been wanting to make it for a while now. Recently I found my crochet hooks so now I'm ready to go. I have actually never crocheted before. My question is regarding materials. Is it important to use a certain type of yarn? I have a bit of a stash from knitting in a past life, but it's all kind of fancy/expensive. I don't *mind* using fancy yarn on this project, I was just wondering as far as it holding up in a rug goes if it would be okay. I'm assuming you would want something more rugged (heh heh). One skein in particular I've singled out is 75% microdenier (?) acrylic/25% merino "medium/4" here: (beward of autoplay) http://www.naturallycaron.com/shade_cards/country_sh.html. Do you think that's doable? Regardless, do you have any suggestions for yarn and/or hook size?

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I appreciate any and all responses.