Spin & Explore: How to Weave with Simple Looms

Chunky yarn tapestries and DIY looms might seem like a Pinterest-era phenomenon, but humans have long adapted weaving techniques to the materials at hand.

In over 4-decades of publication, Spin Off has featured many projects for spinners who, with an adventurous spirit and trip to the hardware store, want to construct simple weaving devices. Two of my favorite articles in this vein are included in the Handspun, Handwoven eBook.

Joanna’s simple frame loom for soumak weaving. From “Basic Soumak Weaving” by Joanna Gleason. Photo by Joanna Gleason

Soumak on a Frame Loom “Basic Soumak Weaving” By Joanna Gleason

“Soumak weaving is a centuries-old finger-weaving technique that requires very little equipment. You can get started with a frame loom, tapestry beater, needle, and some handspun yarn. I like soumak tapestry because it allows me to create movement and texture using eccentric weft techniques. I use soumak to reflect a world that is in constant, flowing motion.”

Read Joanna’s article to see how this basic-weaving technique can be used to create colorful woven cloth out of small amounts of handspun yarn.

Finger Weaving on a Twining Frame “Making Weft-Faced Twined Bags” by Anita Hart

“Originally, these bags were constructed of yarn twined on loose warps hung from a cord stretched around two thick, springy stakes set vertically in the ground. When the bag was finished, it was slipped off the sticks, and one of the open ends was knotted to make the bottom of the bag. My husband made me a portable wood frame so that I could make my weft-woven bags without having to drive stakes into the ground.”

Read Anita’s article for instructions on a portable twining frame and how to create handspun, handwoven bags.

Check out Handspun, Handwoven eBook for more projects designed for inkle, rigid-heddle, and frame looms.

Can’t get enough small-loom projects? The 2019 issue of Little Looms is available too!

—Kate

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