I'm about to weave a scarf in a "log cabin" design using a lambs wool that is shown as 2/11.3 nm, 5650m/kg, 2800yds/lb and 28 wpi. My question is what should I do about the floating selvedge? Do I just need to double up the warp thread in the two outer dents, or do I need to double the warp threads in the 2 outermost dents on both sides, or is there another option to consider?

Comments

Sat, 12/24/2011 - 20:55

WeaverDave (not verified)

You are wondering if you just include extra warp threads with the outermost threads through the heddles, vs. adding 2 extra threads beyond the heddles?  Don't put them through the heddles.

Floating selvedge means the warp threads float and are not used in any of the harnesses.  That's the method I would use.  In fact, I have a scarf in log cabin on my loom right now.  I added one extra thread on each side and used a weight off of the back beam since they are not part of the warp.  But my scarf is only about 10 threads per inch. 

I always go under the selvedge thread comming out of the shed, and over the selvedge thread going into the shed.  Makes a very nice edge.  This is especially helpful with tweed weaves since not all of the warp threads are included at the edges. 

Sat, 12/24/2011 - 21:31

Mike (not verified)

Thank you weaver Dave. Another way of asking the question is do I need 1x2warp threads outside of the heddles or 2x2 threads outside the heddles at either side of the warp.
Sat, 12/24/2011 - 22:51

mneligh

I use 2x2 outside, but I don't think it's what you want.  You actually only need one float (doubled) on either side, and use it as Dave states. 

If you use 2x2 on each side, that's the setup for a twined selvage.  In that case, go through a single dent and leave the back ends loose, attached to weights.  Each row, give the pair of doubled threads a twist.  This is not a normal floating selvage and is used for heavy textiles such as rugs and saddle blankets, not scarves.

Sat, 12/24/2011 - 22:56

WeaverDave (not verified)

I haven't seen a twined selvage.  Got any pictures?

I did see that some adventerous weavers have added a card-woven selvage on some blankets.  It's a lot of work, but looks really neat.  Slow to weave though.