Handwoven – September 2019

Figure 1. Draft

Choose the sett based on the background threads; the

tie-down threads just go along for the ride and do not

infl uence the structure or the sett.

Begin with a plain-weave header using shaft s 1-3 and 2-4.

Once the header or border is established, hold one of the

tie-down shaft s up while weaving plain weave for fi ve picks.

Th e other tie-down shaft will weave with the background. Cut a

strip the depth of fi ve picks of ground cloth and slip it under the

raised tie-down threads, gently tapping it into place over the

ground cloth with the beater. Repeat the sequence, raising the

opposite shaft of tie-down threads. Be careful to minimize

draw-in, as it can distort the image. I always beat on an open

shed, and in large pieces, a temple is useful.

A neutral ground cloth and tie-down threads allow just

about any image to be woven quickly. I keep a small table

loom set up for quick gift s for special occasions. At a recent

conference workshop, participants brought in special photos

from their own lives: long-deceased relatives, pets, grandchil-

dren, special vacations, and just really beautiful images. It was

lovely and inspirational to watch them weave memories

important to them.

DARYL LANCASTER, a handweaver and fiber artist known for her
handwoven garments, has been sewing for more than 50 years. She gives
lectures and workshops all over the United States. Daryl maintains a blog at
http://www.weaversew.com/wordblog.

Try using silk habotai on 10-foot rolls, and print an enlarged image in
horizontal sections.

Slide the strip into place along the previously placed strip and tap

into place with the beater.

Cut a strip of printed silk or cotton the depth of about five picks of

ground cloth. Slip the strip under the raised tie-down threads, being

careful not to twist or invert.

Weave five picks of ground tabby while keeping one shaft of tie-down

threads in a raised position.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 HANDWOVEN | 19