To create a beautiful woven piece, I do not rush. When I am working on a project I can never simply “whip something up.” Weaving is a slow art and each stage in the process is as important as the others.
Won’t you walk with me as I describe the process?
My projects vary in size and weave structure. Each product requires a specific arrangement and number of threads. Each thread must be measured and counted. The threads will be measured in the order of which they need to be threaded on the loom. My projects range from about 80-100 threads to over 600 threads in one piece. Most weavers use a warping reel (pictured) or board to accomplish the counting and measuring of threads.
To maintain the correct spacing between warp yarns, each piece is threaded through the reed and then the heddles. The order of the threading through the heddles (not pictured) determines the woven pattern.
Once the loom is threaded, the warp (yarns on the loom) must be kept at a consistent tension to achieve an even weave structure.
When the piece is completed I usually hemstitch each end for a finished look and a secure structure.
The piece will be wet finished (washed) and hung to dry.
Once the piece is dry, labels are attached, the finished piece is pressed, fringe is sometimes twisted, and then it is ready to be sent on to a happy and grateful recipient!