Hi Weavers!
Why are neat edges so important to weavers? π€
While we don't want to obsess and be too perfectionist about it, a straight, neat edge does have a positive impact on a woven piece.
It's also an important step towards being a confident weaver and gaining predictable and pleasing results.
Everyone can achieve neater edges, but I do have a few top tips that will help to make all the difference:
Warp tension
When I say warp tension you might think I'm referring to how tight your tension is but I'm actually not - it's about the consistency of your tension.
If your warp tension is consistent as you roll it on you can focus on how much you want to tighten the warp afterwards and your edges will be neater if all your warp threads are under the same amount of tension.
The pinching technique
βThis technique helps to settle the weft into place without drawing it in too much to the shed or too little - both of which will cause messier looking edges.
Aim for consistency
You want your edges to look the same all the way along so that the selvedge line is as straight as possible. This is what makes impressive looking edges, even if they are not perfect, if they look consistent the eye will be drawn along that straight line rather than lumps and bumps.
Try This Trick
For rigid heddle weavers, it can be really useful to eliminate the last slot thread during the threading process, as shown in this video.β
Floating Selvedges?
If you're weaving anything other than plain weave, floating selvedges are a must for neat edges.
These are just a few of the tips that will help you out, I could keep going and fill this entire newsletter, but instead I'll refer you to some additional resources:
βSpecific actions for neater edges...β
βSetting Up for Success...β
βHow to weave neat edges on the rigid heddle loom...β
*******************************************************
KINDRED CREATIVES THIS WEEK
This week I've been giving updates on some of my current projects - sock knitting, cardigan knitting, rigid heddle weaving, a floor loom project, and dyeing.
In Episode 19 of Kindred Creatives (soon to be released) I'll be sharing an overview of my dyeing process as I dye some bamboo.
I'll also be releasing a new article for paid subscribers over the weekend that details how I got started in business and built a successful, largely passive, business model.
****************************************************** ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
βDecoding the Yarn Numbers...β
βHow To Weave Krokbragd on a Rigid Heddle Loom...β
βWhat Kind of Weaver Are You? Take the Quiz!β
****************************************************
Learning to weave on a rigid heddle loom? This class is for you!
Until next time...
Happy Weaving!
β
β