so I've set up my new loom stand; and I'm trying string heddles on a much grander scale than my earlier sample. The goal of the project is to test the use of foot operated string heddles, experiment with clasped weft, and create a full blown project (i.e. bag) from start to finish.
You might find more frequent updates on my blog as the project progresses.
30 Jan 10
Phase I complete.
The fabric for the bag is now off the loom. The clasped weft worked really well. In hindsight I ought to have used both heddles it would have made a denser fabric (I chose not to being slighly afraid that with the doubled weft it would look odd, be too difficult to manage, or both). Using boat shuttles with the clasped weft is the best way to go - zip zip zip and you get a really good speed & rythm going. I am also very pleased with the nice even selvage I got on this one - whether that's up to using a stand, and boat shuttles, or just that I'm getting better at this weaving thing is up for debate.
Phase II - the strap and trimmings commences in a day or so.
***UPDATE - 21 Feb 2010 ****
Huray! It's finally done. Cutting your home-made fabric for the first time is a bit nervewracking - but you adapt. The trick is to zig zag stitch the cut edges *BEFORE* you actually cut them.
The hardest part was assembly - I did not expect this project to actually get this far before unwravelling in a horrid tornado of multi-coloured knots. So I did not actually do much on the "planning" front for the bag. So I failed to account for how to finish the flap until . . .well. . . it was time to finish the flap.
In the end I'm exctatic with the end result. My other half now has bag-envy.
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