I'm fairly new to weaving and am starting my first project that uses a floating selvedge. My question is related to the proper tension of the floating selvedge.  Should the tension be similar to the rest of the warp or should it be just tight enough so it doesn't sag. The tension I currently have is probably too tight as my selvedges seemed to be "frowning" after about an inch of weaving.  Your help would be appreciated.

Comments

Tue, 10/04/2016 - 22:34

Sara von Tresckow

The floating selvedge should be about the same as the rest of the warp. If too tight, the fabric can bow out at the bottom if hung (think curtains that get a round bottom). If too loose, they don't bind the edge properly.

Wed, 10/05/2016 - 01:15

Queezle

Hi Kitty,

Its my experience that over time, the floating selvedge tends to get looser, I think because the weft goes around it rather that over and under it.  So - start with the FS tensioned the same as the rest of the warp, and if it gets looser, you can hang weights off it behind the harnesses (eg. S hooks).