(117) Split-shed Weaving: One Threading, Multiple Structures

Break out of blocks with split-shed weaving. Weave curves and blend colors using continuous wefts on a 4-shaft loom with no special equipment. In this workshop, students will weave multiple combinations of structures using a split shed and a straight threading. Only tie-ups and treadling are changed between samples. Most of these combinations would normally require a minimum of eight shafts.

Work with combinations of twills, summer-and-winter, Han damask, taqueté, double weave, and more! Weave samples using continuous, complementary, and supplementary wefts, as well as wefts that combine to produce shading (color-blending) for pictorial weaving. (This is similar to the process Deborah Silver uses to create her art.) Students will also learn to make a cartoon on cloth that will advance with the warp and will not wrinkle when beating.

Although students will not be able to complete all of the samples in class, they will leave with the ability to complete them at home.

Instructor:

Deborah Silver

Experience Level:

Beginner

Maximum Class Size:

20

Materials fee:

$15 covers cartoon-making supplies, hand-outs, additional weft yarns.

Equipment required

4-shaft Loom, Pre-warped

Student Supplies:

  • Pre-warped 4-shaft loom (table, jack and direct tie-up looms are acceptable).
  • A variety of weft yarns.
  • Two flat shuttles and one shuttle of their choosing for use with an 8-9 inch wide warp.

Homework:

Looms must be pre-warped. Set-up instructions will be sent in advance.