B B B Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y M M M M M Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y B B B
Ok, I know that looks kind of like the cat was walking over the keyboard again.
But really, it is a pattern. When you string up an inkle loom, every other thread goes over the first peg, while the others go under the peg. So, in the pattern, the first line of letters are the 'over' threads, and the second line of letters are the 'under' threads. You alternate back and forth between the lines to get the threading order.After all the yarn is on the loom, those 'over' threads are brought down into place with string heddles.
Those stay fixed in one place. But if you reach behind the heddles, you can push up or down on the 'under' threads to create a spot for your shuttle to go through. Here's a shot of the loom all set, with all the threads in their neutral position. (I would have taken a shot of the threads up or down, so you could see the process, but I wasn't thinking of this post then. Silly me.)In the case of this pattern, the 'B' stands for Black, the 'Y' stands for Yellow, and the 'M' stands for Maroon. I used cotton crochet thread. With my little inkle loom, I ended up with just over 2 yards of trim. This is intended to go on a maroon SCA fighting tunic that is just the color of that maroon pattern in the middle of the band.
I was able to make the pattern, thread the loom, and weave off the trim over the course of one evening. For a weaver, that is nigh unto instant gratification! I think I must do more of these. Maybe another band tonight, so I can weave during the Officer's Meeting I need to go to. Hmmmm...what colors today?
oooo, great post! I have always been so tempted by an inkle loom. I would never, ever, in a million years finish dressing a full size loom. And now with your post, the temptation has gotten worse! Thanks! :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I had no idea there was such a thing as an inkle loom. What will you use it for?
ReplyDeleteFiddlin' Trucker, give it a try! Once you get the hang of it (and that doesn't take long), it is dead easy to do.
ReplyDeleteGallery 32, this will be decorative trim on a costume. I'm part of a historical recreation group that studies the Middle Ages, and we make our own garb. It is nice to be able to make exactly what you want, rather than having to rely on the selection in the fabric store. :) I've also used these bands as belts, camera and guitar straps, and pet leashes.