So I am hoping for this group that those of us with Dorset looms can get together (figurativly) and discuss them To discuss why you have one and what you primarly use one for Also to share where to get parts for them Also if someone wants to sell one Hope others join.

Comments

Sat, 03/17/2012 - 12:24

cindybeck@mind…

here is a question for everyone. How much should a dorset cost? I have seen them on the net 20" 4/4 from $350 to $700 and more. I know condition has alot to do with it. And maybe the area u live in. I am really want to get a dorset just not sure what a good price is. I am in Michigan. What do u all think???

Thu, 03/22/2012 - 20:01

minnimom

After learning how to weave on a rigid heddle loom, I got a Dorset last summer for a mere $150. I bought it from a member of the local guild and thought I got a real deal. I still do, though when I started weaving with it, I realized that it needed some work. I was fortunate to find a fellow who is an expert in antique wood restoration whose wife is a spinner and weaver, and who works on looms in his spare time. His charges are mercifully reasonable!
Tue, 03/27/2012 - 02:03

Elk Ridge Orch… (not verified)

I paid a little more for mine Its was built in the early 70's and in great shape Only thing I need to do is put a cloth apron on it You can put out that you are looking for one - they are hard to find
Fri, 04/27/2012 - 21:32

mendomyco

Greetings!  I came home with a Dorset loom yesterday!!  While spending a week in our previous hometown (now 5 hours of driving time away), I visited a longtime fiber-friend.  Near the end of out time together, she invited me to see a loom she had and that she needed to find a new home for to make room in a shared workspace.  She showed me the loom, knowing I had some interest in learning to weave.  So, I am borrowing this little beauty. 

I read Learning to Weave a few years ago, which this same friend sent to me, and I was pleasantly surprised how much I remembered.  The mechanics of it all just makes sense.   And doubly-fortunately, it is already warped with others' learning on it (it was used as a demonstration loom for years) so I can play and not put this off until I research, plan, purchase and generally overthink the whole thing!  Which I love to do as well but that tends to make new hobbies take a loooong time to root.

So, after arriving home last night with the loom, I did a google search before bed and found you all.  Tips, techniques, resources, etc., will be things I am after and will likely google first and ask once I need some final advice instead of blasting you  fire-hose-style with broad questions!  I do know that I will need to borrow a warping board and a sleying tool, at minimum, to start from scratch once I finish playing on the existing warp.  I have a 'local' (over an hour away) weaving guild I am a member of and they are generous and knowledgable.  Fortunate, I am!

I look forward to learning to weave and reading and learning online here.

Nancy

Fri, 05/18/2012 - 03:24

Elk Ridge Orch… (not verified)

So happy to hear from you I love my dorset Right now I have it warped up to do demos at two upcoming festivals I am doing locally next two Saturdays Its all nice and folded and ready to go so i can let people try it out Becky
Fri, 11/30/2012 - 01:21

Cindy Harris (not verified)

Hi all - a friend of mine has a 25ish" weaving width Dorset loom she would like to sell. What would be a good price? The loom is in good condition. I may buy it and then sell my 36" Harrisville 4S 4T. Thank you for any help! Cindy
Fri, 11/30/2012 - 04:12

Elk Ridge Orch… (not verified)

They sell about 500-700 each Does that help any?Look on line to see how much people are selling them for

Fri, 11/30/2012 - 04:43

Cindy Harris (not verified)

Thanks for getting back to me. I did look on-line and most of the sales were on Weavolution, but many posts didn't have weaving width or actual asking price. Most of the prices I saw we're more like $400 to $500, but this may be regional? Thanks for your help!
Fri, 11/30/2012 - 11:56

LShinn

I got an 18" Dorset for about $300 but it needed some major repair. I got a 24" in great shape for $600.
Fri, 12/28/2012 - 23:13

mendomyco

Busy year and finally ready to warp the Dorset for myself.  I think.  I wish my friend was closer to assist and expedite this.  I will be perusing this site for ideas for first projects and to determine what I need to borrow or buy to set me up for success.  I must not have checked the box to let me know when there were responses/comments so sorry I missed out along the way. Happy New Year!

Sat, 12/29/2012 - 21:05

JennieHawkey (not verified)

I love my Dorset, it is my favorite loom! There are many reasons, but it just seems to have a character all of its own, it is pretty and easily moved around and taken places.

One problem that I have and am wondering if anyone knows a solution. My back brake releases (slips) quite often on its own, especially under tension. I don't think that this used to be a problem so wonder if I need to tighten bolts or something to get it better. Any advice?

Jennie

Sun, 12/30/2012 - 00:51

weaver-dyer (not verified)

I'm away from home and can't recall if the Dorset has a single or double pawl with the ratchet that tensions the brake. In any case you may want to make sure that the pawl(s) are placed securely in the ratchet teeth after releasing them to advance the warp. Check the alignment. Perhaps a simple adjustment is all that is needed. Janet
Mon, 01/07/2013 - 05:48

Jennmargot

Hi everybody.  I'm new to Dorsets and to these forums; I created a Group Post but don't see it here so I'm not sure where it went.  So I'll repeat my question here - sorry for the repetition.  I have a question about my new - to me - Dorset loom, which I love!  It is so cute.  There is a stick attached to the back beam by two removable screws and springy things - what is it??  I originally thought that this might be the missing apron rod but it's too wide for that.  Anybody have any thoughts about what it is?  

Thanks all! 

 - Jennifer

Thu, 01/07/2021 - 20:55

Dorset Weaver Mimi

I had the same question and found the answer somewhere on line.  It is sometimes a little difficult to find Dorset information.  I was relieved to know exactly the purpose of the stick as my other looms had never had that feature.  But, of course, they were not folding looms.  Here is the info I found:  "That strip of wood that is attached to the back beam is removable and you can take it off and put your warp under it and therefore when you fold up your loom the warp threads stay in place where they were weaving."  Hope this helps.  Happy weaving,   Mimi  

Fri, 03/05/2021 - 19:11

MAGICKAL HANDS

You want to have your warp run under that stick and you can tighten the wing nuts down after the warp is wond on your back beam I believe it was to help with tension and keeping your threads in order I cringe when i see folks warp over it. And i have seen images like that on line. the Dorset do not come with a traditional cloth apron rod but with three strings and a salt to tie on to. I did once see a photo of a Dorset with an added cloth apron but it is not nessacary to add one

Sun, 01/20/2013 - 20:54

Maribeth

I have a 4 harness Dorset.  Does anyone know how to get the treadles and harnesses to line up as in: 1/1, 2/2, 3/3 4/4.  My loom came backwards as in: from left to right 4,3,2,1.  Thank you.

Sun, 01/27/2013 - 04:01

Maribeth

I have a 4 harness Dorset.  Does anyone know how to get the treadles to line up with the harnesses to line up as in: 1/1, 2/2, 3/3, 4/4.  My loom came backwards as in from left to right: 4, 3, 2, 1.  We tried to rectify this and ended up with criss crossed ties going from treadles to harnesses.  Thank you!

Mon, 01/21/2013 - 01:25

loomroomcat (not verified)

A gal I sold a Dorset to,  told me that she put a small bungee cord around the back beam and hooks it in 2 places to the frame.  Acts as a friction brake so that the back beam does not spin when you release the ratchet brake.  I added one to mine and it is great.  I sell 20" Dorsets for $450-$550 depending on the condition and extras, 26" for $550-$650.  Mine is the one loom I have that I would not sell.

Thu, 01/24/2013 - 16:38

ruthieanderson (not verified)

I love Dorset looms for many reasons. They were originally made in Dorset Vermont (hence the name Dorset) in a basement of a house owned by Cliff and Mary Woods. They made frequent trips to see Berta Frey to show her how the design was developing. Changes were made and it became the Dorset as we now know it. The Woods felt cramped in their basement and moved to over the border into NY and had a home there with a workshop where they made the Dorsets. After many years they retired and sold the business, however it was abandoned after several years. The looms are still coveted today, especially in New England area.
Fri, 02/01/2013 - 19:42

morright

There has been some confusion on my part as to whether or not my email was sent. So, just in case it was not, here goes again:

About 10 years ago I purchased my Dorset ($400), unaware that it had an odd quirk. On 1/27/13, Maribeth wrote that her Dorset's treadles line up, left to right, 4,3,2,1.  So did mine with the exception that 3 and 2 were also switched.  So, mine lined up left to right, 4,2,3,1.  My husband untied the cords from the treadles, removed the section of wood with the pulleys that the cords go through and turned it 90 degrees which,from left to right, lined up treadle 1 with heddle 1 and treadle 4 with heddle 4. That left treadle 2 lined up with heddle 3 and treadle 3 lined up with heddle 2.  I asked several experienced weavers in my guild about the problem and just got blank looks and head shaking. No one had ever had experience with this predicament.  So, I tried switching the threadings for heddles 2 and 3 and it works!  The loom can be used as if it is a 1,1/2,2/3,3/4,4 tie up.  The only problem is that my Dorset continues to baffle weavers at workshops if they notice that the 2 & 3 treadles are lifting 3 & 2 heddles.If Maribeth's loom is constructed the same as mine, and she can turn that section of wood 90 degrees, by untying the cords, she should have a "normal" Dorset.  Stamped on the top beam of my loom is "By F.C. WOOD". Does anyone have any suggestions about finding information about him and his manufacturing process?  I would dearly like to know why the loom was constructed in this manner or if he was just having a bad day.  -Phyllis

Sat, 02/02/2013 - 19:43

warpology

I've used the direct tie up ones at workshops off and on. Loved the loom! Does anyone know if the company ever make looms that weren't direct tie ups? 

Fri, 06/14/2013 - 21:56

noviceweaver

Hi,

Just joining this group as I am awaiting my Dorsett looms, yep, more than one.  I need to know if there are any manuals for the Dorsett looms.

Thanks

Joan

Fri, 03/05/2021 - 19:19

MAGICKAL HANDS

I bought my frist one brand new though my high school weaving teacher randy darwell back in the early 1980’s it did not come with a manual becuse there was no need it was folded in the box all you needed to do was pull it out, unfold it and start weaving
Wed, 06/19/2013 - 01:17

ridgewoodweaver

Hi,

My weaving teacher told me this tie-up is called a "walking tie-up" and is great for treadling twill. You will initially place two feet on each of the, say, 1 and 2 treadles, then move your left foot to the number 4, for 14, then move your right foot to the 3, for 34, and then your left to the 2, for 23. It's very rhythmic! I learned on a loom tied up, from the left, 2,4,3,1, so I "walked" 14, 12, 23, 34, and so on. 

Hope this helped.

Sherrill (ridgewoodweaver) [email protected]

 

Mon, 08/19/2013 - 17:16

JocelynGB (not verified)

So glad to see these posts on the beloved Dorset loom. I am in search of a Dorset--anyone selling or know of anyone who wants to sell one? I used to have one, and now wish to own one again. Can anyone help?

Jocelyn

Sat, 11/02/2013 - 18:19

noviceweaver

Hi Jennmargot,

 

I answer this question sometime back but have not seen it anywhere so thought I would reply again.

 

That strip of wood that is attached to the back beam is removable and you can take it off and put your warp under it and therefore when you fold up your loom the warp threads stay in place where they were .  At least that is what I have been told.

 

Hope this helps.

Joan

Mon, 11/11/2013 - 22:23

stargazer5590

I just posted a dorset loom by FC Wood in the For sale forum. It has a 21" wide work area and needs a reed. Please contact me if anyone is interested. It was refurbished about 5 years ago and hasn't been used since the refurbishing.

Wed, 06/18/2014 - 23:31

drodeghiero

Hi:  I just got a "steal" I feel, on a folding Dorset loom, 24-26" with 4 harnesses & 4 peddles.  She was originally asking $300 but told me if I wanted it for $200 she'd let me have it for that.  She included some extra needle eye heddles, some booklets, bobbins and a shuttle and hook.  She told me all that was ever woven on it was a couple sample pieces and 2 rugs, and she claims it is all there and all original.  I haven't done any weaving in decades, and never owned my own loom, but I'm thrilled.  Hope you find as good a deal as what I did.  

Wed, 06/18/2014 - 23:31

drodeghiero

Hi:  I just got a "steal" I feel, on a folding Dorset loom, 24-26" with 4 harnesses & 4 peddles.  She was originally asking $300 but told me if I wanted it for $200 she'd let me have it for that.  She included some extra needle eye heddles, some booklets, bobbins and a shuttle and hook.  She told me all that was ever woven on it was a couple sample pieces and 2 rugs, and she claims it is all there and all original.  I haven't done any weaving in decades, and never owned my own loom, but I'm thrilled.  Hope you find as good a deal as what I did.  

Thu, 07/17/2014 - 19:08

cmerritt923 (not verified)

This is so confusing. Have tried to post 3 times now. Hope this one takes. Anyway, I just got a Dorset loom, and want a new reed. Will the Schacht reeds fit?

Fri, 03/05/2021 - 19:36

MAGICKAL HANDS

I think the small https://harrisville.com/products/stainless-steel-reeds. the 22 inch reed will fit the Dorset at least i know it fits the 26 and 22 beaters back in school we had both Dorset and small 22 harrisvile looms for our classes and i recall reeds worked on both at least you can still buy the reed from harsiville and they are around 75.00 not to bad and you want a verity on dents and replaceable sizes like 8 10 or 12 you would have to look at the sight to see what they have available Hope that helps

Thu, 07/17/2014 - 19:44

Elk Ridge Orch… (not verified)

What I have done in the past is call the Woolery They had me measure the weaving width and they sold me reeds They are a no blame brand and work great Give them a. All and they can help you I just had to order some heddles and they set me up as well
Sun, 08/10/2014 - 12:58

Drkwood

I am the granddaughter of FC Wood, the maker of the Dorset Looms.  I was gifted a loom by my grandfather as a teenager and have never even taken it out of the box.  I have little knowledge of the looms, other than what I learned watching my grandfather make these in his shop.  It seems to be a 20" standing loom.  I am selling this for $500 and am located in Portland Maine.  If anyone has any questions, please contact me.

Thu, 01/07/2021 - 21:07

Dorset Weaver Mimi

Hello Drkwood!  What a legacy you have of being the granddaughter of F. D. Wood.  You post is an old one but I am just seeing it.  Is there history written on the Dorset Looms.  I do have the article by Ruth Anderson from The Spinning Wheel Sleuth, May 2010, supplement 13.  I am particularly interested in how the Schacht Loom Company obtained the Dorset design for their Baby Wolf looms.  Also, any other historical antecdotes for my Dorset file.  Was there ever a manual produced?  Thank you so much for responding to me - I have an adorable Dorset named Dorabelle!!  Mimi  

Fri, 03/05/2021 - 19:38

MAGICKAL HANDS

Is it still available I am always looking for Dorset looms your grandparents made an amazing loom!!

Wed, 03/10/2021 - 05:14

MAGICKAL HANDS

wow I have so many questions , I would so love to know anything about the history of your family and the loom!!! I just picked up a older one that is so different from the three others I have it has a little cooper plate on the top and with his name and the latches are different from the later models and there is no ratchet crank bar on the cloth beam. looks like it is going to need some major repair it was stored in horrible conditions but it is well worth the work to restor it. I just love these looms do you know what your grandad used to finish the looms I just picked up some rejuvenating oil I have a feeling it i going to need a lot of it. Oh and i would drive to Portland for it if you still are selling your Dorset . Amanda

Sun, 08/10/2014 - 17:37

noviceweaver

Oh, how sad that you will not use it.  I would love to have it, but I already have 2 Dorset looms.  One of which is the 20".

I am totally sure that someone will be happy to buy it from you.

 

Joan

 

Fri, 08/22/2014 - 00:36

dukie362 (not verified)

Hi, I just acquired a dorset loom 22" or 24 " that needs a beater bar...does anyone could help me reproduce it? I d like to know what kind of wood to use, the dimensions...was is one iece of wood or several put together...?

pictures would be awesome!

thank you!

Sat, 01/10/2015 - 22:57

Cosima22

Please let me know if you hear of anyone wishing to sell a Dorset loom. I'm looking and looking for one!!

Mon, 01/12/2015 - 00:48

Jang

Does anyone have an owner care manual for their dorset?? I'm wondering if I need to maintain any of the parts except for dusting?? Do you need to do anything to the nylon cords or plastic rollers??
Mon, 01/12/2015 - 15:41

noviceweaver

As far as I can find out, there is no manual specifically for the Dorset.  You can use the Wolf Pup Lite, I think that is the name, for information as they are very similar.  As far as cleaning it, I just follow the regular dusting and keeping the rust off.  Sorry, I can't help any better.

Joan

Mon, 06/08/2015 - 12:30

Ruthw

I am in SE Michigan with a 20" Dorset loom for sale. It's a 4-harness folding floor loom. Reeds:  6 and 10-dent. Email with inquiries. I can send pictures if you're inteested. Asking:  $500. Shipping not included.

 

Ruth W.

Thu, 12/17/2015 - 17:09

bnnyweaver (not verified)

I have a 20" Dorset for sale in really nice condition. 15 dent reed, flat steel heddles. Asking $500. Local pickup welcome or would be willing to meet someone a reasonable distance. I am in Joshua Tree, CA. Please pm me for photos or more details. Thanks :)

Thu, 12/17/2015 - 17:07

bnnyweaver (not verified)

I have a 20" Dorset for sale in really nice condition. 15 dent reed, flat steel heddles. Asking $500. Local pickup welcome or would be willing to meet someone a reasonable distance. I am in Joshua Tree, CA. Please pm me for photos or more details. Thanks :)

Thu, 12/17/2015 - 17:07

bnnyweaver (not verified)

I have a 20" Dorset for sale in really nice condition. 15 dent reed, flat steel heddles. Asking $500. Local pickup welcome or would be willing to meet someone a reasonable distance. I am in Joshua Tree, CA. Please pm me for photos or more details. Thanks :)

Wed, 07/13/2016 - 01:21

georgianna

We had a housefire in March and my Macomber was destroyed, but my Dorset was salvageable. It had major soot and water damage which was removed with simple green and a power wash. It needs restoration, the wood is now clean but the finish is destroyed. I want to take it apart and clean the rusty metal pieces, buy new heddles, but I am looking for suggestions on what to use and how to refinish this precious loom. Any ideas will be appreciated. Has anyone ever tackled this project before?

Sun, 07/24/2016 - 17:14

SMnNM

I got my Dorset over 30 years ago at an auction in Cambridge, MA when a large yarn store went out of business. The top of the castle is stamped  "1  09" in the upper left corner. In the middle is "DORSET LOOM" and in the lower right corner "BY F.C. WOOD".   I'm just wondering if there's any way of knowing how old it is.  And if anyone has good experience refreshing the finish on theirs, I'd love to know what you used. Thanks!

Sun, 07/24/2016 - 17:15

SMnNM

I got my Dorset over 30 years ago at an auction in Cambridge, MA when a large yarn store went out of business. The top of the castle is stamped  "1  09" in the upper left corner. In the middle is "DORSET LOOM" and in the lower right corner "BY F.C. WOOD".   I'm just wondering if there's any way of knowing how old it is.  And if anyone has good experience refreshing the finish on theirs, I'd love to know what you used. Thanks!

Mon, 08/01/2016 - 17:31

Hazel Fyrebird

I know many people use Danish oil, Tung oil, or wax to finish looms, rather than something like a polyurethane. I haven't done anything like that myself, so I have no experience to offer as to what is best. I am so sorry for your losses, and I hope that this salvage operation goes well for you! 

Group Audience
Dorset loom
Loom repair, maintenance, renovation