OK, this is probably stretching the stated goals a little bit but I think it is noteworthy.  I ran a cross a loom from Japan called a Saori Loom and it is interesting in that the warp can be purchased pre-loaded and the project can be removed from the loom any time and another project started.  The loom also has the capacity to spin fibers as well as an integral spool winder. The Saori concept was started by Misao Jo in 1968 and seems to be heading for a little bit of cult status in that with the "free style" hand weaving program which is self described as "We weave and learn together in search of our true, hidden selves".  The site is interesting and viewed from the difference in perspectives between different cultures and philosophies provides an interesting look into the way others may consider what we do.  The machines seem to be well made and while I don't see that there is a huge advantage in using them over our more traditional looms it may be an easier way to start weaving since some of the steps appear to be foolproof and the lack of perfection in the fabric is an actual asset in thier philosophy.  

I'll leave you with a quote from the site and then a set of links for your erudition and pleasure.

"No two weavers are alike, and it is very natural that every single cloth freely woven by people with different personalities is beautiful in a different way.The irregular selvage and accidental skip of thread add the unprogrammed beauty to the SAORI cloths; and we admire this irregularity as "the beauty with lack of intentions" created by our natural creativity" 

The Saori organization site is located here: http://www.saoriglobal.com/tabid/36/Default.aspx

The loom manufacturer's website is located here: http://www.sakaiseiki.com/Default.aspx?alias=www.sakaiseiki.com/eng

Some sites stateside: http://www.saoriworcester.com/home.htm, and http://www.saorisantacruz.com/, and http://www.saoriberkeley.com/

Regards, Charles

 

Comments

endorph

style weaving on my RH loom - there are a couple of Saori groups over on Ravelry. The Saori loom are pretty cool but you don't need one to weave in Saori style. Now the idea of pre-wound warps is attractive. . . . Although you do still have to thread the heddles and sley the reed.