Small Loom Weaving EASY PROJECTS FOR BEGINNERS ichi.co TUTTLE Publishing Tokyo Rutland, Vermont Singapore C o n t e n t s Why I Wrote This Book 5 Green Coaster 10 Mustard Coaster 10 Vertical Stripes Coaster 11 Instructions on page 49 Instructions on page 65 Instructions on page 66 Horizontal Stripes Block Weave Trivet 12 Tea Mat 14 Coaster 11 Instructions on page 68 Instructions on page 69 Instructions on page 67 Triangle Trivet 15 Woven Ornaments and Card Case with Instructions on page 70 Tassels 18 Tie Closure 20 Instructions on page 71 Instructions on page 74 Stripey Pouch 21 Planter Cover 22 Flowerpot Cover 23 Instructions on page 75 Instructions on page 76 Instructions on page 77 Basket Cover 24 Warp Float Weave One-handle Bag 30 Instructions on page 78 Flower Vase Mat 26 Instructions on page 80 Instructions on page 79 Mini Bag 32 Patchwork Floor Geometric Seat Cover Instructions on page 82 Mat 34 35 Instructions on page 84 Instructions on page 86 Wool Roving Wall Framed Sheep 38 Bird Tapestry 39 Hanging 36 Instructions on page 90 Instructions on page 91 Instructions on pages 87 & 88 Reddish Brown Scarf 40 Gray Scarf 42 Before You Begin 45 Instructions on page 92 Instructions on page 93 A Guide to the Page Layout 48 4 Why I Wrote This Book In the beginning, I had no idea what textile work involves; I just thought that it seemed vaguely difficult. I figured that it would certainly require a degree of perseverance, and though I am someone who tends to get bored easily, there was something about the sound of “hand weaving” that appealed to me. Now I am completely immersed in and fascinated by the world of weaving. I’m continuously fueled by curiosity and the infinite potential of creating textiles and somehow, it has become my livelihood. I didn’t have a well-laid map or vision, but my path revealed itself as I pursued what I liked, what made my heart sing, what I wanted to learn. A desire to share this enthusiasm and to create a community around weaving led me to teaching workshops. When asked why they attend my workshops, many people offer up something like, “I didn’t know how to start weaving or what to do, really, so I experimented with a random wooden frame and I’ve come to learn more.” Many others say something to the effect of, “On one of my trips, I saw a woven textile that I loved and wanted to try making one myself.” Other attendees comment that weaving is “surprisingly complex with hidden depth.” Even if my workshop participants struggle a bit in the beginning, the vast majority find the process of weaving very enjoyable, and I’m delighted that they continue to practice and create. The basics of weaving are very simple: a piece of thread is horizontally woven under and over vertically positioned threads, and this is repeated over and over. And to do this, you will need a loom. Traditional looms are expensive and cumbersome in size, which can be prohibitive for most people. To make weaving more accessible, this book focuses on using a smaller, less expensive frame loom for making easy weaving projects. Although a loom with a wooden frame will require a little bit of extra effort, the basic tools will still yield a multitude of designs. Imagine a life surrounded by lovely hand-woven textiles. Envision how enriching and rewarding it will feel when your gaze lands on a small accessory or bit of decor made by your own two hands. You may find yourself smiling, your heart fluttering and humming, your spirit sighing contentedly. I would be most honored to be your guide as you embark on the beautiful art of weaving. —ichi.co 5