I would like to propose a new Weave Along (WAL) for the backstrap group starting mid-August to September. We will see what you all think about the start date but I figured giving a lot of notice would be good as many people are on summer hols and there are also those who will need time to get their looms together.
Jennifer (jordanj) and I have been talking and we have two ideas which we can run as WALs together.
ONE: A plain-weave color and stripes challenge.
No pick-up, just a plain warp-faced weave. There are many cool designs that can be incorporated in the warping. Once the loom is set up, it's all plain weave and your design magically appears on its own. Combs, spots, checkerboards, horizontal and stripes can all be set up as you wind your warps. Challenge yourself with colors, using and combining those that you wouldn't normally, and see what you can create.
This could be a nice project for some of those handspun yarns that people have been making in the Tour de Fleece. Get used to using handspun without having to fuss over pick up.
We can post some starter warping plans and then set up a file of the different warping arrangements as people come up with new ideas. This will be a great resource for everyone.
Here is what esmecat wove in a similar WAL we ran on Weavolution ages ago.
She made this piece into a backstrap. Here are some other small pieces and ideas for these "warped designs".
Several bands can be sewn together to create nice bags and pouches.
TWO: Use a rigid heddle segment on your backstrap loom to create a balanced weave piece. Make a scarf or sew your piece into something useful. Rigid heddle segments can be bought here.
Look at what fiberdance1 just completed as a first-ever backstrap project using a rigid heddle segment.
Let us know if you are interested in joining in or need help gathering the pieces to make your loom.To think about:- Make sure you have a stable set up for making your warp.
- Choose suitable yarn. Not all yarns are good for the warp-faced weaving in proposal #1. There is more freedom in the yarns you can use in proposal #2.
- Find a stable place to attach the end of your warp and make sure that you are comfortable. Try different places and angles of warp to see what suits you best.