LET’S PRETEND…

Imagine that, unlike me, you want to make a project—sew squares together and arrive at something useful. Our imaginary project involves weaving “Companion Squares” that, when combined, contribute to a “Bigger Picture.” (The terms “Companion Squares” and “Bigger Picture” will be used throughout this article to describe the type of squares referred to—see photo caption.)

Example of a “Bigger Picture” made by combining “Companion Squares.” (Squares woven and photo by Bonnie Visser; used with permission. Pattern design by Suzanne Eakin.)

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It’s helpful to know which corner is which when reading my blog posts because I often refer to corners and sides of the loom (or squares).

This information is also useful when it comes to joining your squares.

Please note: Corner 1 (cr1) and Corner 4 are usually interchangeable. There may be times when it matters that your squares are right side up (meaning cr1 at the bottom left), so please take care!

This post begins a series of two-layer warping (2LW) instructions. I haven’t done much exploring of this weaving method, and haven’t invented many patterns yet. There are a number of patterns available in 100 Pin Loom Squares by Florencia Campos Correa and there are a few available in the vintage pattern booklets on eLoomaNation.com. And I’m in the process of inventing more.

Please check out my video series demonstrating the techniques described in this and the following posts.

2LW Part 1—Basic Twill
2LW Part 2—Twill Changing Direction

INSTRUCTIONS FOR ONE-COLOR SQUARE—two options

(I’m using stretchy wool for these squares, so it’s OK to warp more snugly.)

Samples featuring pink yarn and the Zoom Loom are the most basic method for 2LW. If you want to eliminate all the fancy distractions, follow those photos. By the way, if you are a Zoom Loom user, I strongly recommend you purchase a longer needle to make weaving more comfortable with its wide frame.

The turquoise yarn/cream-colored Weave-It photos will show how to prepare the loom if you wish to work the beginning yarn tail in as you weave. It also shows a warping variation at Cr2 that might make weaving a bit easier.

1) BASIC ONE-COLOR WARPING

Anchor the yarn tail in the notch at Cr1. (If using a different loom you can tie a slip knot, leave the yarn tail hanging, or use a method that suits you.) Warp L1 as usual. Finish at Cr2.

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An interesting question came up on the Facebook Pin Loom Weaving Support Group in response to yesterday’s post about using cotton yarn on the pin loom. Is there a way to add a little bulk, so as not to have a too-open weave, and still make weaving with cotton easier?

We also had a request for a demo using two colors and plain weave on the Zoom Loom. As many of you know, I don’t like the Zoom Loom—that extra wide frame (inner and outer edges) gets in my way and cramps my weaving style. So at great personal sacrifice of comfort (hee hee) I will demonstrate on the Zoom Loom:

  • How to use two different thicknesses of cotton
  • How to use two colors of yarn
  • How to use two different warping set-ups

Keep your packing fork handy because you’re going to NEED it! Read More →