I have been using the yarns versus the fiber cones lately to give my hands and brain a rest by using the size 8 heddle. Lessons have repeatedly mentioned the wet finishing stage will fill holes and fix errors by fluffing threads. Which key words should I look for in the description that would tell me a yarn would not do this or maybe not as well as others?

 

 

Comments

Sat, 07/02/2016 - 17:15

Erica J

I know wool can achieve a wide variety of fluffing/fulling in the wet finishing process depending on how much aggitation is used. We are fortunate to host the digital version of Laura Fry's Magic in the Water, which is one of the definitive guides on wet finishing and a vareity of fibers.

For the amount of information in the book it is honestly a steal at $25.

Sat, 07/02/2016 - 21:19

laurafry

All fibres/yarns will benefit from wet finishing.  The steps are simple, but can be applied to a variety of degrees, depending (there's that word again!)

Not all wools will full, but they will bloom.  All yarns will benefit from scouring (removing any spin oil or other 'dirt'), then agitation (to more or less degree) which will help the yarn slip to areas of least resistance (which is where slight inconsistencies in beat and reed marks tend to reduce if not disappear entirely).  Wools that will full can be fulled to greater or lesser degree depending on the effect desired.

Sometimes a good hard press will help to 'lock' the warp/weft into place, especially in the case of yarns that don't full - like cotton/linen/silk.  A hard press will also increase shine on those yarns where we look for shine - like linen, silk, rayons.

It's not finished until it's wet finished!

Sun, 07/03/2016 - 05:44

10ashus

Another aspect of weaving to learn -the wet finish factors. I must have heard the kindergarten explanation in my beginner books. Put in warm water; swish gently with mild soap; rinse; roll in towel; lay flat to dry.

Magic in the Water has been added to my wish list.