Personal InquiryCindy DiDonato
Weaving on a Jack Loom
ImmersionKnitterSpinnerSmall Loom Weaving
What I Know
How to create yarn from a raw fleeceWeaving uses up all the copious amounts
of yarn that I havePlain weave using a ridged heddle, inkle,
and tapestry loomWarping simple loomsFiguring yardage of yarn to warp a loom
Questions
What are the physical differences between a simple loom and a jack loom?
How do I thread the heddles?How do I read a weaving draft?How do I wind the warp on a jack loom?
Sources of Information
Traditional Books: The Weaving, Spinning and Dyeing Book; The Key to Weaving
Internet: Videos and Weaving websitesWeavers Guild of RI; Weavers Guild of
BostonWeaving friendsWeaving Workshops at Slater Mill and
Octagon House
Learning-Content
Read texts and web sites about different warping techniques.
Take workshops to learn: Not all yarns can be used for warping. Sometimes a warp string breaks. Removing a warp takes practice. Some yarns are good for the weft. Creating smooth edges takes practice.
Learning Process
Read weaving texts prior to taking workshops.Warp and weave under supervision of a
weaver.Discuss weaving techniques with other
weavers.Attend Weaving Guild of RI meeting
presentations on weaving.Finished weaving projects can be functional or
decorative.
Extracting& RecordingRead information about the physical
components of a loom from texts and websites.
Discuss the best first project for a jack loom with other weavers.
Create a notebook for the weaving project.Choose and enlarge a draft (pattern) and
add to project notebook.Put samples of appropriate yarns for warp
and weft in notebook.Calculate yardage for warp and weft.
Values
Foster the textile arts.Demonstrate the importance of making
things.Teach the art of weaving.Collaborate with the weaving community.
Actions
Make handmade gifts.Recycle yarns.Demonstrate weaving to the public.
Evaluation
Continue: Do more research offline and online. Observe different techniques. Experiment with different yarns.
Change: Practice weaving more often. Tie warps with other weavers present to assist.Experiment with color.