The weaving technique clasped weft is simple with dramatic effects. Two weft yarn colors interlock and double back on themselves in each pick, lending a tapestry-like appearance to the weave.
Generally, clasped weft is woven in plain weave, but for this project, we tried 1/3 twill for a more textural look. I paired the clasped weft twill with alternating stripes of plain weave in carpet warp so that the dimensional quality of the clasped weft twill would be emphasized by the flatness of the plain weave. As in any aspect of art and design, contrast is a great asset for refining composition.
When I am working on a new project, I focus on finding the balance between action space and resting space. This balance is often found through contrast. One of the reasons to strive for this, is that it helps the viewer’s eye to move through the cloth instead of being visually overloaded or getting stuck in a static area. Try out this project or tell us how you create contrast and balance in your weaving!
Weave Structure:
Straight draw, twill weave
Finished Size:
1 15×15 -Plain-weave backing; 1 15×15 -Clasped weft pillow front.
Yarn:
Warp—1 tube carpet warp (Navy Blue) Weft—1 skein each Lamb’s Pride Yarn in Sable, Jaded Lagoon, Warm Carmel; and 1 tube carpet warp (Black)
Equipment:
Wolf Pup 4S Loom, boat shuttle, bobbins, sewing machine for finishing pillow
Number of Warp Ends:
170
Warp Length:
3 yds
Width in Reed:
17”
EPI:
10
Draft:
The threading for this project is a straight draw.
Weaving Instructions:
Step1: Weave Back. Begin with 17” of plain weave Lamb’s Pride Warm Carmel yarn.
Step 2: Weave Front. Weave 1” of plain weave with black carpet warp for hem or zipper.
Step 3: Weave Front Continued. For the next section, use the twill treadling1,2,3,4,3,2, repeat. Use clasped weft to create an interlocking color change.
Step 4: Weave 5 picks of plain weave with the black cotton carpet warp.
Step 5: Continue to alternate between twill clasped weft with wool yarn and sections of 5 carpet warp picks until you have 17”. Finish with 1” of black carpet warp.
Step 6: Remove from loom and secure ends. Wash in room temperature water with a drop of soap. Dry flat. Hand or machine sew sides, insert pillow form and sew the top closed.
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