This may be a silly question, but I have always used Floating Selvedges. I just read one of Laura Fry's blog posts that says she never uses them.  What do you do instead?

Thanks,

Meara

Comments

Wed, 07/08/2009 - 19:16

naturalfibres (not verified)

I don't use them either.

So as to what I do instead - if I'm weaving a 2/2 twill, I always start by throwing the shuttle on the left side treadling 1-2, so that way I don't miss any threads.

Otherwise, if I'm weaving a lace pattern or overshot I always thread the first and last 3-4 threads in straight draw, 1-2-3-4. 

Wed, 07/08/2009 - 20:33

I weave too (not verified)

Indulge a newbie here... so in other words, what you're doing is actually just weaving tabby on the edges?

Wed, 07/08/2009 - 20:57

laurafry

It doesn't have to be plain weave.  A two pick float on the selvedge isn't going to hurt anything.  Even a longer float isn't necessarily 'bad' - it all depends on the grist of your yarn.

If you're working with 20/2 cotton, say, a five pick float still isn't going to compromise the textile unduly.

But if there are concerns, you can thread the selvedge so that you have basket weave (half basket, in fact).  I posted a draft on Weavolution but it is also on my blog.

Just be consistent with what you do - personally I'm right handed, so I begin with the shuttle in my right hand and my right foot.  It really doesn't matter which so long as the selvedges are weaving correctly.

Cheers,

Laura