The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Summer’s hot and the weaving is fine
Summer always brings a new wave of students wanting to learn to weave. Many have “always wanted to, but never had the time.” They also seem to fall into the group that now will have more time on their hands, due to pending or actual retirement, and summer vacation.
I have one customer who purchased a loom over three years ago, but was waiting for her retirement. This summer she retired, and called to make an appointment for her weaving class.
The rigid heddle loom which I specialize in is unlike their big sister, the shaft or harness loom. The rigid heddle loom is less expensive, fast to set up, and has a minimal learning curve. Sizes can range from 10” up to 48” in width, and can be worked on a table or have their own stand. This is the perfect loom for those living in smaller spaces, and can also be quite portable if you want to travel with them.
The nice thing about weaving on these versatile looms is that knitters can easily use their yarns on them to create everything from scarves, table runners, to fabric to make garments. It’s a great way to use up odds and ends of yarns in with beautiful results.
Like knitting needles the reeds which the warp yarn is threaded through come in many different sizes. 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and a new 15 dent reed are the current sizes, as well as new variable sized reed which features multiple size dents in one reed. The variable allows the weaver to use many different gauge yarns in one project, which opens so many new possibilities.
Most people who throw the shuttle for a bit will invariably fall in love with weaving. The back and forth of the shuttle and the raising and lowering of the reed, is mesmerizing. On lookers always comment about how peaceful weaving looks.
If you wish to find a little peace for yourself, lessons are available, year round. In Sheep’s Clothing offers a loom rental program which includes a lesson, to those who want to give weaving a try without the commit- ment of purchasing a loom first. Most renters ultimately purchase a loom after falling in love with their first finished project. They are always amazed at how beautiful their first piece is. Friends and family members are always quick to place orders for scarves and other woven items, now that they have someone who can create custom hand-wovens.
Melissa, a recent student fell in love with something on my loom, and wanted to make it her very first project. I’m so happy she did, because it is the scarf featured above and is absolutely gorgeous, in fun sunny summer colors. If you wish to give weaving a try, please call 860-4823979. Jump in — the weaving is fine!