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This delicate shawl looks like it's been finely handknit -- but was actually created by an experience weaver!
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Weaver Stephanie Reece was drawn to weaving's natural aspects -- it's use of human energy in accordance with nature to create something both useful and beautiful. Reece teaches students how to weave on old-fashioned looms. Many are intimidated by the looms, and although weaving is a structured activity, it's repetitive steps are simple. Weaving can be undertaken at any age, and weavers can choose patterns from books or create their own. Once the basic techniques are learned, weavers can freely create whatever they envision. Reece prefers working on frame loom or vertical loom, on which the design hangs vertically. The weft, or horizontal thread, is the one that shows; while the warp , or the vertical thread, doesn't. Reece begins by separating the threads and weaving different colors of thread through with a batten. Each color is woven for a short segment before it is changed to a different color -- creating variations in pattern and texture. After each row of color is finished, the blade side of the batten is used to push the weave down and a weaving fork is used to beat across the weft before another color is introduced. Reece also uses a spinning wheel to spin her own wool into yarn. The wool can be spun thick or thin, and the type of twist determines the strength of the yarn. Hand spinning creates a softer wool than machine spinning, Reece says, although a harder effect can be achieved
RESOURCES :
Handloom Weaving Technology: A Reference Book That Should Be in the Library of Every Handweaver
Model: 155821612X
Author: Allen A. Fannin
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