Weaving Up a Little Looms Picnic

A while back I wrote about the recipe for a handwoven picnic, mostly with multi-shaft projects. Now that Easy Weaving with Little Looms is coming out four times a year with all back issues available digitally with the subscription, I figured it would be good to write a sequel of sorts to that original post—this time featuring projects that can all be woven using a rigid-heddle, inkle, or pin loom.

The Rose Trellis Tote by Anthony Thompson. Photo by Matt Graves

First, you’ll need a picnic tote of sorts. While I know baskets are the traditional carrier of picnics, I prefer a large tote bag, preferably with a pocket or two, just like Michele Marshall's incredible Weaving Class Tote from the Spring 2025 issue. This bag is big enough to carry not only lunch for a family, but also the picnic blanket and perhaps even a jar of bubbles or a frisbee. Want a pin-loom option? Rose Trellis Tote, also from Spring 2025, is the perefect size for a picnic lunch for two.

Flatware to Go by Joan Sheridan. Photo by Matt Graves

If you want to be “extra” (as the kids say), consider making Joan Sheridan's clever Flatware on the Go from the Summer 2023 issue for storing a couple reusable utensils. This cute inkle pouches are perfect for picnics or for making any sack lunch just that much more special.

Gabi van Tassell’s Indian Blanket Flower Afghan. Photo credit: George Boe

For the picnic blanket, Sara Bixler’s Ticking Striped Picnic Blanket from Summer 2021 works perfectly as does Gabi van Tassell’s showstopping Indian Blanket Flower Afghan from Summer 2020.

The Summer Fruit Napkins by Christine Jablonski will brighten up any picnic, no matter the weather. Photo by Matt Graves.

Once you’re all set up, it is the perfect time to pull out a set of napkins, such as Christine Jablonski's bright and beautiful Summer Fruit Napkins from the Summer 2023 issue. Inspired by the bold berries of summer, these cheerful napkins will make your picnic just that much more joyful.

Of course, the best part about a little-loom picnic is that you can take your weaving with you! What better way to end a picnic in a park than by playing on your pin, rigid-heddle, or mall tapestry loom surrounded by family, good friends, and nature.

Happy Weaving!

Christina

Originally publishd 6/30/2022; updated 6/17/2025