Uncut Cloth

Day 335: This is what a coverlet looks like, fresh off the loom. Well, and a little extra. The coverlet will consist of three panels sewn together, and the remaining section will be turned into a matching pillow or something. I'm actually surprised by how quickly this went, but then I really devoted myself to getting it done. My minimum goal was two motifs (squares) per day. Some days, I did as many as five, but that generally proved to be too much for my shoulders. Of course, I was working on other projects as well. Now the floor loom is empty. I had a project in mind, but once I did the calculations, I realized that my reed isn't wide enough, and because reeds aren't cheap, it's prudent for me to change my project plans instead. While I'm thinking about that, I can continue working on the false damask on the table loom. Actually, the first sample piece is almost done. I may cut it free before starting a new one, just so I have something to show my readers.

Weaver's Web

Day 90: Any time a fiber artist uses a new yarn or thread, there are bound to be surprises in the way it performs. Occasionally, this means rethinking the entire project, but sometimes unexpected results can lead to a better finished product than envisioned. Such was the case when I began weaving today with Bernat's "Blanket," a bulky chenille-type yarn. I had threaded the loom in a traditional birdseye, expecting the black warp to appear as a subtle pattern; instead, the fluffy chenille completely concealed it, packing densely into a soft but sturdy cloth as the weft was beaten into place. Since the birdseye pattern was not apparent, I reverted to a simple tabby weave. Backed with a non-skid material, these rugs will be durable and attractive. That said, I think this cloth would also make an excellent upholstery fabric.