Kelly

I love weaving but I hate warping

One of the most common things I hear from new students is:
“I love weaving… but I hate warping.”

And I get it completely!

Warping can feel tedious, slow, and (if things go wrong) a little discouraging. When you’re excited about starting a new project, it’s tempting to rush through the setup so you can just get to the good part – the weaving!

I wouldn’t say I hate warping – not at all. But I definitely feel that tug of impatience when I’m partway through winding a warp or threading a rigid heddle, and my mind is already dreaming about the fabric to come.

I think it’s fairly natural to just want to get to the good part 😀

But when I hear someone say that they hate warping, my first thought is “then something in your warping process needs to change”. Unless you have a huge weaving school or you’re mega rich and can pay someone to warp your loom for you, the warping is going to come down to you.

Why Warping Feels Like a Roadblock to Some Weavers

Over the years, I’ve realised that what many weavers dislike about warping isn’t the task itself—it’s the fear of making mistakes, or the uncertainty of whether it will all work out. If a weaver lacks confidence and is convinced that warping will be hard then yes, it will feel hard.

Questions like:

Did I calculate this right?
Is my tension going to be uneven?
Why are some threads shorter than others?
Why is this yarn so twisty and tangly?!
What if my tension is off and I won’t know until I start weaving?

Sound familiar?

A Shift in Mindset: Warping is Part of the Weaving

When I started weaving, I saw warping as the boring “set-up” before the real fun began. But over time, my perspective changed. I started seeing warping as part of the creative process, not separate from it.

Here’s what helped:

Taking my time to work through the steps
Having a clear plan before I even touch the loom
Using it as a moment to slow down, focus, and prepare—like priming a canvas before painting
Understanding the warping as an essential part of the process
Viewing the warp as the heart of the loom – a vital component to a happy weaving project

Now, even when I feel a little impatient to start weaving, I remind myself that the care I take in warping lays the foundation for everything to come.

Tips to Make Warping Easier (and Less Stressful)

If you or someone you know struggles with warping, here are a few things that might help:

Use a calculations sheet or online calculator – it helps you stay organised and confident in your numbers
Stick with warp-friendly yarns – smooth, strong yarns are more forgiving for beginners
Start with manageable warps – a short, narrow project is less daunting and easier to troubleshoot
Watch a video tutorial as you go – it can make all the difference to have a visual guide alongside you.

And most importantly—give yourself grace. Warping gets easier with practice. Even if it’s not your favourite part, it doesn’t have to be the thing that stops you from getting to the good part – the weaving!

If you are looking for beginner online courses to get you more comfortable with weaving, be sure to check these out:

Rigid Heddle Weaving Beginner Course

Table Loom Weaving Beginner Course

Floor Loom Weaving Beginner Course

What About You?

Do you enjoy warping? Do you rush through it, or take your time with it?
I’d love to hear what your relationship with warping looks like—and if you have any tips of your own, please share them in the comments!

One Final Thought…

I can’t go away without leaving you with this one very important fact. Years of practice in the art of weaving has taught me this truth: Everything in weaving is fixable!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Krokbragd Inkle Weave Along Student Work

by Kelly Leave a Comment

During the month of June 2025 I released the Krokbragd on an Inkle Loom course. I also ran the Krokbragd Inkle Weave Along – a fun and interactive way for students to start weaving krokbragd together.

There was a private Facebook group for those participating in the Weave Along and it quickly became a thriving space with students sharing their work and troubleshooting common issues.

We also had a super cool giveaway – a Lojan Inkle Loom which was won by one lucky participant.

I wanted to show you some of the beautiful student work that was shared during the weave along. Some students followed the class designs exactly, others branched out and used some different colors and some even took the leap to design their own krokbragd bands! 👏👏👏

Bands by Laura

Bands by Barbara

Bands by Leslie

Bands by Loraine

Bands by Monica

I am always impressed to see the willingness to learn and enthusiasm of students. Even when the technique is brand new, they come into the class with an openness that is wonderful to see.

I think you will agree that these bands are absolutely beautiful. I hope you find them as inspiring as I do!

If you are interested in learning how to weave Krokbragd on an Inkle Loom, check out the comprehensive online course and make a start!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Fallen out of love with weaving?

by Kelly 1 Comment

If you’re feeling uninspired by your weaving lately — or wondering where the passion went, know that you’re not alone. Every creative journey has its ebbs and flows. You’re just not feeling it lately, I get it. But does this mean that you have fallen out of love with weaving?

I want to assure you that it’s very natural to have periods of time where you just don’t feel motivated to weave. For some people it will be a few days long, for others it will be “my loom is in the back of the closet” long!

Taking a break from weaving is absolutely fine and sometimes it’s really necessary. But I feel very sad when someone tells me they are giving up altogether. I feel that, with the right tools, information and motivation, most weavers can reset and get their weaving mojo back.

Today I’m going to take you through a few ideas and mental exercises that may be just what you need to get re-started.

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

It doesn’t really matter whether you’ve been weaving for a shorter or longer time, these methods apply to all weavers.

I want you to think about the time leading up to, and beginning to weave for the first time. Cast your mind back and consider these questions:

What drew you to weaving in the first place?
What were your first projects like?
What excited you most back then?

Now I want you to write down the words and/or phrases you would use to describe those early feelings. Think of it as a brain dump – you can write whatever emotions you remember feeling at that time, both positive and negative.

I’m going to share my list of words with you as an example, but please use the words that apply best to you.

My Words and Phrases

Happiness, joy, intrigue, fascination, wonder, disbelief, enraptured, amazed, hopeful, confused, frustrated, curious, excitement, immersion, something to look forward to, dreamy.

Now that we have a list, first highlight the words you would consider to be negative. Choose 3 of those words. We’re going to look at those negatives in a different way to turn them into positives:

Felt Then	Positive Outcome
Confused	Learning and understanding, clarity
Frustrated	Patience, learning through further research
Overwhelmed	Slowing down, one step at a time

Now we’ll take a look at the rest of the words and again, choose 3 to work with. This time think about how that positive emotion has contributed to your overall weaving journey, and where it has allowed you to get to.

Felt Then	Where it took me
Fascination	A habit of curiosity and interest
Hopeful	Kept me going when it was hard
Immersion	Allowed to expand my skills

The point of this exercise is to remind you of the positives surrounding your creative journey and to illustrate that even the perceived negatives have a necessary place in learning.

Why Do We Lose Enthusiasm?

There are so many reasons why we might find ourselves at a point of thinking we have fallen out of love with weaving. Some reasons may include:

Repetitiveness leading to boredom

Pressure to be productive or guilt that you’re not using your loom/s

Comparison or perfectionism

Lack of time/energy

Not knowing what to weave next

Poor health or chronic illness

Sometimes you need to go backwards in order to go forwards. That is why we did the exercise of words and emotions, it’s a strong reminder of you as a newbie weaver.

Practical Ideas to Reignite Joy

Here are a few ideas that can help to kickstart a little reset and have you feel that joy for weaving like you used to:

Try a new technique
Make a gift that blesses someone you love
Weave with a child or a friend
Reorganize your yarn stash—rediscover old favourites and donate what you don’t intend to use
Set up your loom just for play—no outcome required. A sample is perfect or maybe an arty wallhanging.
Take a fun quiz to give you a fresh perspective
Watch inspiring weaving videos or documentaries
Join a weaving challenge or class

Student Wisdom

I asked some students of the Online Weaving School to share their own thoughts and advice when it comes to the concept of falling out of love with weaving.

Inga has some great advice about acceptance:

“I know that falling out of love with weaving (or any craft) will happen. I also know the spark will come back, so I try not to sweat it if I’m in a slump. I have everything I need to jump right back in as soon as the spark hits.“

Gai had some wonderful ideas about keeping the spark alive in a small way when you can’t be working on bigger things:

“I had never used a pin loom before, but this loom arrived when I was at the start of a year-long health issue that left me, both physically and mentally, unable to use my RH or inkle looms. This little loom took no effort to warp and weave, and I believe it kept me sane during a very difficult time. I literally made hundreds of 4” squares during this time, beginning with just random squares in any colour wool or cotton that I laid hands on.

The humble pin loom kept me in the creative realm by giving me something new, simple and undemanding to do and, I believe, it inspired me to explore even more on my other looms when I was able to start weaving on them again.“

Katie found that the rediscovery of a special yarn she had purchased as a new weaver, plus discovering another beautiful alpaca yarn to go with it, was the perfect solution to getting out of a weaving rut.

“I found that, for me, even switching out my choice of fiber could jump start the creative process again!”

Are You Ready to Fall Back in Love With Weaving?

Consider the possibility that you haven’t lost your love for weaving—it’s just waiting for you to notice it again, perhaps from a different angle. The spark is still there and can be reignited.

I hope this article has helped or inspired you to consider ways that you might fall back in love with weaving!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

3 Fears Stopping You From Starting Your Creative Business (And How to Start Anyway)

by Kelly 2 Comments

You dream of turning your weaving or handmade craft into a business—but something keeps holding you back. I have noticed over time that there tends to be 3 fears stopping you from starting your creative business.

When I asked my YouTube audience if they wanted to start their own business, over half said yes. So why don’t more people get started? Why are they stuck and can’t get their business idea from their head into reality?

I have been running my own six figure weaving business for 10 years now and you could say that I’ve learned a thing or two about how to start and run a successful business.

The 3 Biggest Fears

Today, I want to walk you through what I perceive to be the 3 biggest fears that stop most creative people from starting. I want to also give you some simple baby steps you can take to begin— no need to quit your job, spend a fortune, or announce anything big to the world.

Fear 1: Fear of What You Don’t Know

“I don’t know how to start a business.”
“I don’t understand websites, email, marketing…”

This fear is totally normal. You’ve never done this before—and guess what? Neither had I when I started. Have you ever started a new job and known exactly what to do, right away? Starting a business is no different – of course you don’t know what you don’t know!

My business started as a micro movement. Just me, myself and I, one step at a time. No money, literally none. I worked around my young family, investing time in the business around existing commitments and utilising free and very low cost online tools.

When I think back, I knew nothing about starting and running a business. The benefit of starting super small is that you can baby step your way in, learning what you need to know, when you need to know it.

Baby Step 1 : Start a blog.

Setting up a blog is one of the easiest, safest ways to build an online presence without needing social media or pressure to sell anything yet. I have been blogging since 2008 (yes, really!!) and it started as a free and satisfying hobby. It gave me a way to share my creative life with an online audience.

✅ WordPress is a free way to get started quickly. You do need some sort of blog hosting though, I have used Bluehost for many years and am happy with their service. They are very low cost to get started with.
✅ You can begin by just writing about your craft, what you’re working on, or what you’re learning. No pressure to “sell” anything. This helps you to gather an interested audience. You can even begin selling directly from your blog if you want to.

Why it works:
Blogging helps you build confidence, get comfortable sharing online (including familiarity with writing good copy, taking clear and quality photos and fielding queries), and slowly grow an audience that trusts you.

A blog can be monetised in a variety of ways, but the most simple beginner way is to sign up with a media company. They will place ads on your blog and pay for the privilege. I started out using Google Adsense and now I use Journey by Mediavine.

Fear 2: Fear of Failure

“What if I try and nobody buys?”
“What if I waste time or money?”
“What if I fail in public?”

Starting small is your antidote. You don’t need to launch a full business. You just need to test the waters. When my business was starting to grow bigger and at times I felt overwhelmed with the work, someone recommended Company of One by Paul Jarvis. This book resonated so much with me that I spent some time re-evaluating the kind of business I wanted to have. Paul encourages you to stay small as a business rather than growing to the point of needing a team, if that speaks to your heart. It surely does to mine!

Baby Step 2 : Start collecting emails.
Your email list is the single most important tool you’ll ever use to grow your business. I can not overstate this enough!

Once you have built a mailing list, it belongs to you. That means you will always have a way to contact your audience directly.

And it makes sense, right? You want to be in contact with the people who are genuinely interested in what you do.

✅ I use Kit (formerly known as Convertkit) — it’s free for your first 10,000 subscribers (that’s an amazing deal!) and built for creators.
✅ You can put a simple opt-in form on your blog: “Want to see behind the scenes of my weaving life?” Or use your blog to mention your newsletter/mailing list and get sign ups that way.

Why it works:
You’re not “selling” yet. You’re just building a list of people who are interested in what you do. No pressure. You can figure out what to offer later.

Fear 3: Fear of the Work

“This sounds like a lot. I don’t have time.”
“I already have a job/kids/health issues…”

Totally fair. That was me when I started, a busy Mum, homeschooling her kids and running a household. You don’t need to do it all. The beauty of being your own boss is that you decide how much or how little you put in to the business.

Admittedly, the work will increase as the business grows, this is inevitable and is actually a good thing because it means you’re succeeding. Again, keeping the business small initially and taking baby steps is the way to go to prevent work overwhelm.

Baby Step 3: Start sharing casually.
If you’re already on Instagram, YouTube (this topic needs it’s own post, it has been so instrumental in building my business!), or Pinterest, just start saying things like:

“I’ve been thinking about turning my weaving into a business…”
“Testing out email marketing to share more of my weaving journey…”
“Just started a blog to document my process—excited and nervous!”

✅ This arouses curiosity. People will start following along naturally.
✅ You’re not launching anything—you’re just documenting and sharing.

*This post contains affiliate links. For further information please see my disclosure policy.

Wrap-Up: You Don’t Need to Jump—Just Take the Next Step

You don’t need a “launch plan”, business plan, products, or a perfect website. You just need to start showing up in a consistent, gentle way that feels right to you.

Here’s your 3-step starter kit:

Start a blog with Bluehost
Collect emails with ConvertKit
Talk about your journey naturally on social media

More Resources

3 Ways to Start Selling Online For Free

Do You Want To Start Selling Your Weaving?

Etsy V’s Shopify

Selling For Weavers (online class)

And if you want to see what tools I use to run my own creative business, grab my free PDF (scroll to the download button underneath 😉):

Tools I use to grow my weaving business!Download

Would you like to continue the discussion? Check out my Youtube video and leave a comment to share your thoughts 👇

Have questions you need answered? I can help with that. Make your booking here to work with me in a one on one email consultation:

Book Your Consultation Here

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

How Many Projects Is Too Many?

by Kelly 11 Comments

How many projects is too many? 🤔 If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably got more than one project on the go at any given time. Maybe it’s a rigid heddle scarf on the loom, a tapestry sampler, some floor loom experiments, or even a non-weaving project like knitting or sewing. And maybe—just maybe—some of those projects have been “in progress” for quite a while.

Is that a problem? Not necessarily.

In fact, I’ve found that having multiple creative projects on the go can actually be a good thing—for creativity, productivity, and even self-care. But I’ve also learned that this approach doesn’t work for everyone, and even for those of us who love variety, there are a few important things to consider.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of juggling multiple projects at once, and how to make it work for you (rather than against you).

The Upside: Why More Than One Project Can Be a Great Thing

There are several reasons why I personally enjoy and benefit from having multiple projects in motion.

💡 It keeps me creatively inspired

When I switch between different techniques, fibres, or project types, I find it actually fuels my motivation. If I feel a bit stuck or bored with one thing, I can take a break and pick up something else that excites me.

🧘‍♀️ It gives my body a break

Different projects involve different movements and muscle groups. For example, weaving at a floor loom can be demanding on the legs and back, while spinning or hand-sewing is more gentle and seated. Rotating between them helps avoid repetitive strain and gives parts of my body a rest.

🎯 It helps me be more productive overall

This might sound counterintuitive, but I often finish more projects when I allow myself to work on a few at once. Why? Because I stay in the flow of creativity rather than getting bogged down in frustration or boredom with a single task.

*Turned Tacquete on my Louet David 8 Shaft Floor Loom*

The Downside: What to Watch Out For

Of course, having too many projects can come with its own set of challenges.

🕳️ The danger of the “unfinished” pile

Longer-term or more difficult projects can easily end up languishing while I focus on newer, shinier things. Sometimes, they’re forgotten entirely—or feel like a burden when I do remember them.

🏠 The clutter adds up

Let’s be honest—every project takes up space. If you don’t have dedicated storage, and adequate space, things can get messy fast. (Ask me how I know, I have my own studio and things still get out of hand!)

🤹 It can feel mentally overwhelming

Even when projects are tucked away, they take up mental space. That little voice saying “You really should finish that…” can start to sound pretty loud when it’s multiplied by five or six projects.

Are You a One-Thing-at-a-Time or Many-Things-at-Once Kind of Person?

This is the key question. Some people feel scattered and anxious when they have too many projects on the go. Others (like me!) thrive on at least some measure of variety.

Ask yourself:

Do you feel inspired or overwhelmed by multiple projects?
Are you good at coming back to things, or do you tend to move on permanently?
Does your environment support multiple projects, or is it stressing you out?

Being honest about your tendencies, preferences and living situation can help you make better decisions for your creativity and well-being.

A Few Things to Consider Before Starting “Just One More”

Before you jump into another project, it’s worth asking:

💰 Can I afford it right now?

Some projects require buying new tools, yarns, or supplies. Do you have the budget to support more than one at a time?

📦 Do I have the space to store it?

Even small projects take up room. Is there somewhere safe and organised you can keep your work-in-progress?

📅 Am I likely to finish it—or will it join the WIP graveyard?

You know yourself best. If you’ve started five projects in the past month and finished none, it might be time to pause and focus. Be honest and know yourself for the best outcome.

What Works for Me

Over time, I’ve found a rhythm that suits both my creative energy and my practical limits.

I usually have one main weaving project on the loom, plus one or two side weaving projects plus some other activities like dyeing, sewing, spinning, knitting or crochet.
I use small baskets, zip pouches and tote bags (handwoven of course!) to keep WIPs organised and tidy.
I allow myself to start something new only if it serves a creative need or solves a problem (not just to avoid a tricky bit on something else!). If there is something I’m feeling super passionate about, I will allow myself to go with that motivation and ride the wave at least some of the time.
I keep a simple notebook list of active projects so I can easily jump back in when I have time or energy. I also add future desired projects to this list.

And most importantly—I try not to beat myself up if something takes a long time. Creativity isn’t always linear, and that’s okay.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About the Number, It’s About the Balance

There’s no magic number of “allowed” projects. What matters is whether your projects are serving you—your creativity, your energy, your enjoyment.

If you’re the kind of person who thrives with multiple projects, embrace it (with some boundaries if needed). If you prefer one at a time, that’s great too. Either way, tune into what works for YOU in this season, and don’t be afraid to change your approach if needed.

*This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

If you’re challenged by availability of space, consider whether small loom weaving would be well suited to your situation.

If you find it hard to focus or get anything done with the time that you have, check out the 10 Minute Rule to increase productivity.

I hope you enjoyed this post and feel free to share with us your own thoughts and experiences in the comments below ⬇️

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Is Talent or Knowledge More Important? The Real Answer Might Surprise You!

by Kelly 12 Comments

Is talent or knowledge more important? Or is there something else that helps us achieve our goals?

We love to talk about talent.
From a young age, we’re told that some people are “naturally gifted”—as if success in life, art, or work hinges on whether you were lucky enough to be born with a certain spark.

But is talent really the guaranteed key to success?
What about knowledge—what you learn and earn through experience?
Or is there something even more powerful than both?

Here’s the truth: Talent and knowledge both fall short without one essential trait.

And that trait is curiosity.

Talent Sounds Glamorous… But It’s Not Enough

Let’s be honest: talent can feel like a shortcut. When we see someone do something effortlessly—whether it’s painting, singing, coding, or crafting, weaving—it’s tempting to believe they were just born that way.

But talent alone doesn’t build skill. It doesn’t guarantee growth.
In fact, people who rely solely on talent often plateau early. They avoid challenges that might expose their limits, and they may never learn how to push through difficulty.

Talent is a wonderful gift to be given, but on its own it doesn’t necessarily go anywhere. Talent must be driven, challenged and honed.

Knowledge is Powerful, But Passive

On the other side, we have knowledge—something we can all gain over time.
Books, courses, teachers, and life itself give us endless opportunities to learn. And yes, knowledge matters. Deeply.

But knowledge without application? That’s just trivia.
Knowing how something should work doesn’t mean you’ll actually do the work, or that you’ll keep going when it gets hard or boring.

Just like talent, knowledge requires a driving force to be put into action.

So What Really Drives Success?

Curiosity!
It’s the overlooked secret behind talent and hard work.
It’s the thing that gets you started and keeps you going.

Curiosity is what makes you:

Ask questions others aren’t asking
Try something new without fear of failure
Dive deep into a topic or craft without being pushed
Stick with it, not because you “have to” but because you want to know more
Be willing to see out a project and learn from it, even if it’s difficult

It turns learning into a game. Practice into play. Repetition into discovery.

Why Curiosity Beats Both Talent and Knowledge

Let’s break it down:

Trait	Strength	Limitation
Talent	Gives a head start	Fades without effort
Knowledge	Builds understanding	Stagnates without action
Curiosity	Fuels both learning and effort	Leads to progress regardless of starting point

Curiosity is active. It doesn’t wait for perfect timing or permission.
It creates momentum—and momentum is what moves you forward, even when you feel stuck or unsure.

My Experience: How Curiosity Carried Me

In my own creative journey, I’ve had seasons where I felt untalented.
And times when I had no idea what I was doing.
But what I did have was an inner spark—the drive to figure things out. To try. To explore. To keep going, not because I had all the answers, but because I was curious.

That’s what has made the biggest difference.
Not talent. Not perfect knowledge. But the willingness to learn, fail, adjust, and try again.

A curious person sees the barriers, they acknowledge the reasons to not persist, but they brush them aside and forge ahead.

When you’re curious it doesn’t matter how you learn, it just matters that you do.

So many times in my weaving journey I have almost convinced myself that I’m not talented enough, not smart enough, that I’ll never be able to learn this new technique or weave structure.

But that driving force keeps driving me forward, it replaces the lack of talent or knowledge with determination and eventually (sometimes a long time later!) I achieve the goal.

What This Means for You

If you’ve ever thought:

“I’m not talented enough”
“It seems so easy for others”
“I don’t know enough”
“I’m too far behind/ too old to start”

Let me gently challenge you.

Ask yourself instead: “What am I curious about?”
That single question can shift everything.

Because curiosity doesn’t care where you begin. It only cares that you begin.
And that’s where real growth lives—not in being perfect, but in being interested enough to keep going.

Final Thought

Talent may open a door. Knowledge may show you where it leads.
But curiosity? Curiosity gets you to turn the handle and walk through it.

Ready to Explore Your Curiosity?

Download my free 7-Day Creative Exploration Journal Prompter and start following your curiosity—one small step at a time.

ʘ Click here to get the printable journal sent to your inbox.

You’ll also get occasional emails with tips, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes from my creative world.

Now I’d love to hear from you:
Have you ever followed your curiosity into something unexpected or life-changing?
What’s something you’ve always wanted to explore, even if you’re not “naturally good” at it?

So, what has your experience been? Has curiosity played a big role in your life? Or has something else been your driving force?

Let me know in the comments, I love to hear from you and share experiences!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Boat Shuttle vs Stick Shuttle: Which Should You Use on a Rigid Heddle Loom?

by Kelly 7 Comments

If you’re a rigid heddle weaver and you’ve ever looked at a boat shuttle and wondered, “Can I use that on my loom?” — this post is for you!

When you first purchase a rigid heddle loom, it almost always comes with a stick shuttle to get you started. But then, you might notice other weavers using a boat shuttle instead and wonder why.

Today I’m going to walk you through the key differences between these two types of weaving shuttles, how I decide which one to use, and whether a boat shuttle is worth the investment for your weaving journey.

Can You Use a Boat Shuttle on a Rigid Heddle Loom?

Yes, absolutely! While a stick shuttle is what most rigid heddle looms come with, a boat shuttle is a wonderful tool that can be used on these looms — you just need to know when and why it might be helpful.

Let’s look at the differences so you can decide which shuttle is right for your projects.

Boat Shuttle vs Stick Shuttle: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick comparison of the two:

1. Cost

Stick Shuttle: Usually inexpensive — you can even make your own or improvise with a paint stirring stick or similar.
Boat Shuttle: Although prices vary significantly, a boat shuttle is more of an investment — In addition to the shuttle, you’ll likely want extra bobbins, which are an additional cost.

💡 Tip: Some weavers make their own bobbins from cardboard or stiff paper!

2. Ease of Use

Stick shuttles are quick and simple for thicker yarns. I like to use mine when I’m weaving with anything thicker than fingering weight.
A stick shuttle involves passing the shuttle through the shed.
Boat shuttles shine when working with finer yarns (like Tencel, lace weight or 8/2 cotton). They feed yarn more smoothly and save a lot of time.
A boat shuttle (depending on the width of the warp) involves throwing the shuttle through the shed.

One of my favorite things? I can pre-wind multiple bobbins and just swap them out quickly mid-project. So satisfying and keeps you in “the zone”!

3. Efficiency

With a boat shuttle:

Winding yarn is fast — especially if you use a hand bobbin winder or electric bobbin winder.
Weaving is smoother. No need to stop and unwind yarn manually like with a stick shuttle.
It glides beautifully through the shed, especially when you’re working with fine, smooth yarns. You do need to ensure that you have good warp tension, especially on a wider warp where you might need to throw your boat shuttle further.

💡 Tip: You can even use a hand drill to wind bobbins!

A stick shuttle:

It’s fairly quick to wind a thicker yarn onto a stick shuttle
Once you’ve had some practice, you can kind of “shoot” the shuttle from one side of the warp to the other, making the transfer quicker. You will need a good firm tension and straight angle to ensure the “prongs” of the shuttle don’t catch on any warp threads.

Does a Boat Shuttle Fit Through the Shed on a Rigid Heddle Loom?

Great question — and yes, it absolutely does!

I often hear weavers worry that the shed (the opening between raised and lowered threads) won’t be large enough for a boat shuttle. But on my rigid heddle looms, I’ve had no issues at all. The boat shuttle fits through easily, and its smooth design helps it glide through like a dream.

If you were using a boat shuttle with a higher profile, you may run into issues. For that reason, I recommend a low profile boat shuttle (about an inch high is perfect).

💡 Tip: Just make sure you’re advancing your warp often so your shed stays nice and open!

Which Boat Shuttle Should You Buy?

There are so many boat shuttles out there, it can feel a bit like picking your first loom all over again!

A great entry level shuttle is the Ashford 13 or 15 inch open boat shuttle:

Lightweight but sturdy
Tapered ends for easy gliding
Works beautifully for both narrow and slightly wider projects
Affordable

It comes with one plastic bobbin, but I definitely recommend grabbing a few extras if you can.

A mid range shuttle would be this 13″ open boat shuttle from Pickers Ridge.

Handcrafted in Australia but affordable
Quality, sustainable New Guinea Rosewood
Light and lovely to hold
Magnetic spindle
Regular sized Ashford bobbin fits this shuttle

And for a high end, one of a kind shuttle check out the 13″ open boat shuttle from Pickers Ridge.

Handcrafted in Australia
Stunning appearance
Quality, sustainable Figured Silkwood maple
Magnetic spindle
A special piece for your weaving studio
Regular sized Ashford bobbin fits this shuttle

So… Do You Need a Boat Shuttle?

Nope — but you might really enjoy having one in your weaving toolbox.

If you mostly work with thicker yarns, don’t mind winding by hand and need to be budget conscious, your stick shuttle might be all you ever need. But if you’re venturing into finer yarns, love having pre-wound weft ready to go, or just want to make your weaving more efficient — the boat shuttle is a game-changer.

I love having both shuttle options available — and using them based on the yarn and project I’m working on. Like most weaving tools, it’s all about finding what works best for you.

If you’re interested in learning more about different types of boat shuttles, check out this article I wrote on open boat shuttles v’s closed boat shuttles.

*This post contains affiliate links. For more information, please see my disclosure policy.

Let me know in the comments below:
Do you use a boat shuttle on your rigid heddle loom? Or are you tempted to give one a try?

If you found this post helpful, feel free to share it or subscribe to my YouTube channel for more weaving tips and tutorials.

Check out the video below to see the boat shuttle in action with a rigid heddle loom:

Until next time…

Happy weaving!
— Kelly 💛

Open vs Closed Boat Shuttle: What’s the Difference & Which Should You Use?

by Kelly Leave a Comment

If you’re new to weaving or upgrading your toolkit, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between an open and closed boat shuttle—and does it really matter which one I choose? In this post, I’ll walk you through the key differences, the pros and cons of each style, and tips on choosing the best shuttle for your weaving projects.

🧵 What Is a Boat Shuttle?

A boat shuttle is a weaving tool used to pass weft yarn through the shed (the opening created when you raise or lower the warp threads). It typically holds a bobbin or quill on a metal spindle that allows the yarn to feed off smoothly as you weave.

Boat shuttles are most commonly used with floor looms or table looms, but can also be advantageous for rigid heddle weaving.

There are many types of boat shuttle but today we’re going to discuss open and closed boat shuttles with a side feed.

What is warp diving?

I have to explain what I mean by “warp diving” as I’m going to use the term a number of times! It sounds like a whole lot of fun but it’s really not! 😆 So, a warp dive is when your shuttle angles downward at some point during it’s transition from your hand to the opposite side of the loom.

This causes the tip of the shuttle to break through the bottom shed of the weaving and, well, you can probably imagine the outcome.

Warp dives range from minor (phew, the cloth beam fabric caught it in mid dive) to spectacular (picture yourself, or me if you like, crawling around under the loom trying to locate the exact landing position of the shuttle).

OK, that should be crystal clear to everyone now? 😆

What Is an Open Boat Shuttle?

An open boat shuttle is open on the top and the bottom, allowing the bobbin to be visible and easily accessible. You can pop the bobbin in and out quickly, because you can push on it from underneath, which makes unloading and reloading a breeze.

✅ Pros of an Open Boat Shuttle:

Easy bobbin changes – slide one out and another in with minimal fuss.
Good visibility – see how much weft yarn you have left at a glance.
Lightweight shuttle – Without the additional wood to enclose the bottom of the shuttle, an open boat shuttle will usually weigh less and be light to handle.
Finger control – Some weavers (I don’t use this technique myself, but many do) like an open shuttle for it’s tactile aspect. They like to have more of a feel for how the thread is feeding off the shuttle.
Slimline design – The height of an open shuttle is usually lower, making it great for a small shed.

⚠️ Cons:

Slightly more exposed, so the bobbin can jump around a little if the shuttle isn’t smooth-running. It’s important not to overload your bobbin so that it ends up protruding beyond the bottom of the shuttle and rubbing up against your warp threads.
May not be as suitable for wider warps – Due to the light weight of the shuttle, some weavers may find it difficult to throw far enough when weaving on a wide warp. This can depend on the length of the shuttle too. A longer shuttle is more appropriate for a wider warp.
More likely to warp dive – This can depend on the design of the shuttle, but my experience has been that warp diving is more common with an open shuttle.

What Is a Closed Boat Shuttle?

A closed boat shuttle has a more enclosed body with smaller slots or holes where the yarn exits. The bobbin is housed inside, which can give a smoother glide through the shed in some setups.

✅ Pros of a Closed Boat Shuttle:

Smooth and solid – glides easily over the warp, especially on high-tension looms.
Protects the bobbin – less chance of yarn catching or bobbin misalignment.
Prevents warp diving! – A nicely shaped closed shuttle can glide so straight and smooth that you will never have to experience the pain of a warp dive!
Heavier construction – Due to being enclosed, the closed shuttle will be slightly weighted than an open shuttle.

⚠️ Cons:

Can be slightly slower to change bobbins – If there is no finger hole, changing a bobbin can be fiddly as you can’t adjust from underneath.
Heavier – this is not necessarily a con, just something to point out for consideration!

*This closed shuttle by Pickers Ridge has a super handy finger hole for pushing the spindle up to load a new bobbin.*

Size and Weight Comparison

Here are a few examples from boat shuttles I personally own:

Ashford 11″ open boat shuttle – 71 grams

Ashford 13″ open boat shuttle – 113 grams

Ashford 15″ open boat shuttle – 181 grams

Pickers Ridge hand crafted 13″ closed boat shuttle – 117 grams

Pickers Ridge hand crafted 13″ open boat shuttle – 105 grams

Leclerc 15″ flying shuttle – 494 grams

Schacht 15″ end feed shuttle – 189 grams

Which Shuttle Should You Choose?

Here are a few quick tips to help you decide. Take these with a grain of salt because at the end of the day, shuttle choice is heavily influenced by personal preference and specific project needs:

Situation	Best Shuttle
You are challenged by warp dives	Closed boat shuttle
Your loom has a smallish shed	Open boat shuttle (lower profile)
You like to see and feel how much yarn is left	Open boat shuttle
You use a high-tension floor loom with a wider weaving width	Closed boat shuttle
You want a quick and convenient workflow for narrower warps	Open boat shuttle

Of course, many weavers like to own both types and switch depending on the project.

Bonus Tip: Choose Quality

Whether you choose open or closed, make sure your shuttle is:

Well-balanced and glides easily across the warp.
Made of smooth, durable wood to be long-lasting.
Compatible with your loom’s shed height.
Not just pretty to look at but also comfortable and practical to use.

A good-quality shuttle can make a big difference in your weaving speed and enjoyment.

*This post contains affiliate links. For further information, please see my disclosure policy.

Make the choice that fits you best!

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but understanding the pros and cons of open vs closed boat shuttles helps you make an informed decision that suits your weaving style. If you’ve never used a boat shuttle before, see if you can try one out at a weaving supplier, guild or with a friend.

If you are a rigid heddle weaver you might be wondering if boat shuttles are a tool that you could use? Well, head on over to this article next to find out all about using a boat shuttle with a rigid heddle loom!

👉 Have a favorite shuttle? Let me know in the comments! Share the details so other readers can learn and make informed choices 😊

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

What is a weaver? (Hint: It’s About More Than Making Cloth)

by Kelly 7 Comments

When you think of a weaver, what comes to mind? Someone sitting at a loom, throwing the shuttle back and forth, quietly creating cloth from yarn? That’s true—but it’s only the beginning.

After years immersed in the world of weaving—teaching, learning, and connecting with thousands of weavers—I’ve come to realize that being a weaver is as much about who you are as what you make.

I’ve been pondering the question “What is a weaver?” Does weaving shape who we are or do we shape the way we weave?

Here are my thoughts on the heart of a weaver:

A Weaver Is Generous

Weavers are givers. You’ll rarely meet a weaver who hasn’t gifted their handmade creations to friends, family, neighbors, or total strangers. Whether it’s a handwoven tea towel, a scarf, or something as intricate as a baby blanket, their joy is in the giving.

But the generosity doesn’t stop with finished pieces. Many weavers freely share their time, knowledge, and experience with others. It’s a craft rooted in community.

Many weavers are involved in charitable organisations. They may weave tiny blankets for babies born early, or weave prayer shawls as part of their church ministry. Some will weave and sell items so they can then donate to their favourite charities.

A Weaver Is Curious

Weavers love to learn. Whether it’s trying a new technique, exploring color combinations, or diving into historical weave structures, curiosity is a common thread.

Weaving is full of possibilities, and a weaver is always asking, “What if?” “Can I bend that rule?” “What will happen if I change this?”

A Weaver Is Patient

Weaving takes time. A lot of time.

Warping the loom, threading heddles, sleying the reed, fixing mistakes—it all requires focus and patience. Many weavers spend long hours in solitude, and it shows in their calm, centered presence. The process itself often becomes a form of quiet meditation.

If you consider yourself and impatient person, does that mean that weaving won’t suit you? Of course not! Weaving will help you develop patience naturally as you work to achieve your goals.

A Weaver Is a Problem Solver

Tangled warp? Uneven tension? A threading error discovered ten inches into your cloth?

Weavers are skilled at troubleshooting and adapting. The craft naturally develops resilience and creativity. A weaver rarely gives up—they pause, reflect, and try again.

If a weaver cannot figure something out they strive to find out more. Online communities have been a wonderful support for many weavers.

A Weaver Is Willing to Share

The weaving community is one of the most open and supportive I’ve ever known.

Whether online or in person, weavers are always ready to lend a hand, offer advice, or cheer you on. Ask a question in a weaving group, and you’ll get answers, encouragement, and maybe even a photo tutorial or links to further resources!

A Weaver Is Passionate

Once weaving grabs your heart, it doesn’t let go.

Weavers are deeply connected to their craft. Yarn, texture, structure—it’s more than just a hobby. Many weavers describe it as a lifelong journey of discovery, challenge, and joy.

So… What Is a Weaver?

A weaver is someone who turns threads into cloth—but more than that, a weaver is:

A generous spirit
A curious mind
A patient soul
A creative problem solver
A passionate maker
A thoughtful giver
And a valuable part of a rich, global community

If you’re just starting your weaving journey, welcome. You’re joining a long line of extraordinary makers who don’t just weave cloth—they weave meaning, kindness, and connection into everything they create.

To put it really simply, weavers make the world a better place ❤️

Want to Join the Weaving Community?

If this post resonates with you, you might already be a weaver at heart. Browse my Youtube channel, sign up for a class, or subscribe to my newsletter for inspiration, patterns, and tips sent straight to your inbox.

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

5 Ways to Make Any Weaving Pattern Your Own (Creative Tips for Every Weaver)

by Kelly Leave a Comment

Following a weaving pattern can be a great way to build skills and confidence—but what if you could make any weaving pattern your own? Whether you’re new to weaving or have years of experience under your belt, there’s something deeply satisfying about making a piece that’s unmistakably you.

Why You Should Make Any Weaving Pattern Your Own

Following a pattern exactly is an excellent learning tool for a beginner. Just like following a recipe, you’re given all the ingredients and method to help you obtain a successful outcome and learn a great deal along the way.

But some weavers will want to branch out and try new things, still with the support and guidance of an exisiting pattern to ensure predictable results.

In this post, I’ll walk you through five simple but powerful ways to take any weaving pattern and infuse it with your personal style. These tips are inspired by the incredible work of my students, who have taken patterns from my classes and turned them into their very own one-of-a-kind creations.

1. Play With Color

Color is one of the most powerful tools you have as a weaver. Even if you’re following a pattern exactly, changing the color palette can completely transform the look and feel of your finished piece.

Try using your favorite colors, draw inspiration from nature, photos, or even interior design trends. Perhaps you are interested in delving into some basic color theory for even more inspiration.

*8/2 cotton comes in a fabulous range of colors!*

2. Adjust the Fiber

The type of yarn you use can make a big difference. Swap in natural fibers for a rustic or organic look, or go with something glossy and smooth for a modern feel. You could even mix fibers to create texture, interest and possibly shape and form. Think outside the box—cottolin, wool, bamboo and silk each bring something unique to your weaving.

*This glorious shawl was achieved by using hand dyed tencel in the warp, mercerised cotton for the weft and a wonderful advancing twill weave structure from The Handweaver’s Pattern Directory.*

3. Modify the Scale

Small changes in yarn weight or sett can dramatically affect the scale of your pattern. Want something bold and graphic? Go with thicker yarn and a looser sett. Prefer something more delicate? Use finer yarns and a tighter sett. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

*Same weaving draft, different yarns, sett, color and scale!* *Woven on my Louet David Floor Loom.*

4. Add Embellishments

Rya knots, fringe, beads, or embroidery stitches can add a pop of personality to even the most traditional pattern. Embellishments are a great way to tell your own story or highlight a favorite part of the design. A little detail can go a long way.

*Danish Medallions weave structure embellished with Swarovski Crystal Beads.*

5. Mix It Up

Combine different patterns, techniques, or structures to create something totally new. Maybe you add a stripe of plain weave to break up a complex pattern, or alternate sections of different color schemes. You’re not limited to what’s on the page—your loom is your canvas.

*Combining pick up with plain weave for eye catching design. This design is from the Pick Up Perfection online course.*

Ready to Make a Pattern Your Own?

Want to dive even deeper and see more to inspire? Check out this blog post showcasing some of the incredible student work that inspired this guide—and see just how beautifully a pattern can transform in the hands of a creative weaver!

Check out my design store for digital download patterns and ebooks for a variety of weaving disciplines.

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

*This post contains affiliate links. For more information please see my disclosure policy.