The Online Weaving School

Hi Weavers! Having woven on both rigid heddle and table looms for many years and taught thousands of students around the world, I can honestly say that each has its own strengths. In fact, I started my own weaving journey on a rigid heddle loom before later moving on to a table loom and eventually floor looms. Every step has taught me something valuable. In this article, I’ll compare the rigid heddle and table loom, share the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which loom is the best...

Hi Weavers! Have you ever looked at a piece you’ve woven and thought, “Why doesn’t it look as neat as everyone else’s?” Maybe the edges are wavy, there are gaps between rows, the fabric looks uneven, or the whole project just seems a little untidy. First up, give yourself some grace, we all improve with practice. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons your rigid heddle weaving might not look as neat as you would like: Why Is My Weaving Uneven? 10 Common Problems (And How To Fix...

Hi Weavers! Why are neat edges so important to weavers? 🤔 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...

Hi Weavers! The world feels quite uncertain at the moment. Prices keep rising, the news cycle rarely seems to bring much peace, and many of us are feeling the weight of it in one way or another. In times like these, I find myself returning to simple things: faith, family, and the work of my hands. There is something deeply reassuring and essential to me about creating. Sitting at the loom won't solve the world's problems, but it does allow us to contribute something good, beautiful, and...

Hi Weavers! Think warping a rigid heddle loom is complicated? Think again! This week I'm sharing one of my most popular beginner guides - a step-by-step walkthrough of the direct warping method, with photos to guide you through every stage. And so that you never get confused about which step you're up to, I've included a free downloadable checklist at the end so you've always got something to refer back to. If you're just getting started with rigid heddle weaving, this guide is a great place...

Hi Weavers! When I first fulfilled my dream of purchasing a rigid heddle loom, my only real goal was to "weave cloth". I guess by "cloth" I meant plain weave. Because back when I started rigid heddle weaving, that's what most weavers seem to be using a RH loom for. But then I bought Jane Patrick's Weaver's Idea Book and it ignited something in my mind. I realised that my loom could do plain weave but so, so much more! So I began to explore. I put on a sampler warp and went through the pick up...

Hi Weavers! Choosing the right yarn for your weaving project can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out on a rigid heddle loom. With so many options available, you’d think it would be easy! But when faced with dozens of yarn weights, fibers, and heddle sizes, even experienced crafters can feel unsure. Let me help you to choose the best yarn for weaving, regardless of your project! I’ll walk you through how to choose yarn for weaving by looking at real weaving projects...

Hi Weavers! Do you ever feel restricted by the "shoulds" and "should nots" of weaving? You should never be stifled by technicalities that don’t serve your joy in the process. The rules should be a springboard, not a suffocation. So, let’s unpack 5 traditional weaving “rules” that you have full permission to brazenly ignore in the pursuit of creative joy. 5 Rules of Weaving You Should Absolutely Break ******************************************************* KINDRED CREATIVES If you haven't...

Hi Weavers! If you haven't heard the big news, Kindred Weavers (my Youtube membership channel) is merging with my Substack! The name of this new space is Kindred Creatives. I am so very excited about this move. It is everything I've been wanting to do for many years, all in one place. Videos, podcasts, articles, an exclusive community group for creatives and so much more ❤️ The current cost to subscribe to my paid Substack subscription is $5USD a month for founding members but that amount...