Hi everybody.  I just stumbled on a Dorset loom in a consignment shop and had to buy it - it is so cute!  I took it home and started on a project, only to discover that there is no apron rod for the cloth beam - there is one ordinarily, right?  There is also a stick attached by screws and springy things on the back bar of the loom and I'm not sure what that is for.  Anybody have any ideas?  I can't wait to get this little guy warped and start giving it a run.  I would love hearing any more detailed info about these looms, if anybody has anything.  It's so cute. .  . . thanks every body.

 

 - Jennifer 

Comments

gailc

The stick you are describing is used to help tension the warp.  You slide it over the warp as it winds over the back beam.  It really is a neat little helper.

sequel (not verified)

I always thought the stick attached to the back beam was to secure the warp when the loom was folded for transport.  I don't think I would rely on it for tensioning.

You can use just about any nice straight stick or metal rod for the tie-on rod.  I prefer hardened steel rod.  It's the shinier heavier rod you buy in hardware stores.  3/16" ought to be heavy enough.  1/4" for unhardened steel.

gailc

You dont use that stick for tensioning the warp while winding, but it keeps a little tension on it at the back beam and helps to hold it it place.  It is a very nice addition to the loom.  As you say, it is very helpful when the loom is folded, but I found it very nice to have when I was winding by myself.

Jennmargot

Thank you, everybody!  Happy Dorset weaving!

jazzmoynihan

the stick attached by screws and springy things on the back bar of the loom does nothing.  I took mine off.  Do worry about that.

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