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Weft Pile Techniques 

Weft pile adds interesting textures to textiles. Rugs and tapestries benefit from pile weaves as well as fabrics such as upholstery, pillows, bed coverings and even outer wear. Weft piles differ from warp pile weaves such as corduroy and velvet in that the weft creates the texture.

This class consists of variations of weft pile techniques such as knotted cut pile, looped pile including pull-up loops and knotted loops, and combination of textures and pile heights.

Class participants will work on their own looms with an opportunity to collaborate with other students. This is a self-paced class with students open to pick and choose which techniques they wish to concentrate on.

Instructor: Dawn Ahlert
Duration: 3 day
Level: All
Categories: Weaving, Tapestry, Rugs

Supplies that students will bring:

  • Rigid heddle, 4 harness table or floor loom, dressed and ready to weave
  • Warp yarn can be any of the following: 8/4 cotton carpet warp, 3/2 cotton, 8/5 linen, 12/9 cotton seine twine
  • Warp should measure a minimum of 8 inches weaving width on the loom and a minimum of 2 yards
  • Sett appropriate to weft faced dominate thread warp for plain weave
  • A variety of wool weaving yarns for weft, including novelty yarns. No yarns larger than knitting DK or Sport weight.
  • Several stick shuttles and/or several bobbins and a boat shuttle
  • Any size (or a variety) straight knitting needle (aluminum or wood) a minimum of 1 inch longer than weaving warp width
  • Crochet hook appropriate size for weft
  • Tapestry fork or table fork (eating utensil)
  • Scissors
  • Tapestry needle
  • Pencil and paper to take notes
  • Anything else that helps you with your weaving such as reader glasses and a small light

Optional Supplies

  • Bobbin winder if available – if not we should be able to share with other class members
  • Pick-up stick or weaving sword
  • Extra stick shuttles
  • Extra bobbins filled with a variety of yarns, including novelty yarns. No yarns larger than knitting DK or Aran weight.

Material Fee: $10
Materials Included: The material fee provides a 14 page color spiral bound instruction booklet, illustrated with diagrams and pictures.