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6 Cosy Winter Rigid Heddle Weaving Projects

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Winter has a funny way of slowing us down – shorter days, cooler weather, and a natural pull toward cosy, comforting activities. For many of us, that makes it the perfect season for weaving.

If you’re looking for inspiration, winter is a wonderful time to focus on rigid heddle weaving projects that are warm, practical, and satisfying to make. The kind of projects that feel good on the loom and get plenty of use once they’re finished.

Personally, I am a practical person and so I have a great desire for my weaving projects to be very purposeful.

In this post, I’m sharing some of the best winter rigid heddle weaving projects, whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced weaver looking for something cosy and rewarding to work on.

Why Winter Is Perfect for Rigid Heddle Weaving

Winter weaving just hits differently. As soon as Autumn starts to roll in, something stirs within me and my creative mind goes into hyperdrive! By the time Winter arrives, I usually have a list of “must weaves”.

It’s a season that naturally suits:

  • Slower, more mindful making
  • A desire or need to be warm and work with fibres like wool that just feel good in this season
  • Projects you can work on in small or longer pockets of time
  • Textiles that are meant to be physically used, not just admired

Rigid heddle looms are especially well suited to winter projects because they’re:

  • Quick to dress compared to floor looms
  • Ideal for cosy, textured fabrics
  • Easy to leave warped and come back to without fuss
  • Great for thicker yarns like knitting wool

If your energy and mood dips a little in winter (you’re not alone), choosing the right project makes all the difference.

Scarves: A Winter Weaving Classic (for Good Reason)

Scarves are a go-to winter project, and honestly, they deserve their popularity.

They’re:

  • A manageable size for a weaving project, making them a great beginner weaver option
  • Easy to customise
  • Great for experimenting without overwhelm
  • Literally one of the warmest things you can wear! I find that if my neck is warm it really helps the rest of me to feel warm

On a rigid heddle loom, scarves are perfect for playing with:

  • Thicker yarns like wool or wool blends
  • Texture (waffle weave, other pick up patterns, or simple colour changes)
  • You choose the width and length according to personal preference

If you’re newer to weaving, a scarf is an excellent confidence builder. If you’re more experienced, it’s a lovely way to try a new technique without committing to a huge project. If you don’t intend to keep the scarf for yourself (let’s face it, we can’t keep every one!) they may wonderful gifts.

Resources for Scarf Weaving

Rigid Heddle Beginner Scarf Bundle…

The Heart Scarf (Free Project)…

Join My Mailing List to Receive the Free Moroccan Dreams Scarf Pattern…

Shawls and Wraps for Cosy Layering

Winter is also a beautiful time to weave shawls and wraps, especially if you enjoy slightly longer projects that still feel achievable.

Rigid heddle looms are great for:

  • Rectangular wraps
  • Narrower shawls sewn together from panels
  • Lightweight but warm fabrics using wool or alpaca

Shawls are particularly satisfying because they:

  • Feel a little more “special” than a scarf but are basically an upsized scarf!
  • Work well with simple or more complex weave structures
  • Are wonderful gifts (or well-earned keepsakes)
  • Provide many options for exploring colour, pick up techniques or finger controlled techniques

If you tend to weave in the evenings, shawls are a lovely project to have on the loom – steady, rhythmic, and very calming.

Resources for Shawl Weaving

The Anastasia Shawl…

The Midnight Shawl…

The Mobius Shawl (Free Project)…

Blankets and Throws (Yes, You Can on a Rigid Heddle Loom)

Winter is when many weavers start dreaming about blankets (sometimes I think that blankets are a bit of an obsessions for me 🤭) and while large blankets can feel intimidating, rigid heddle looms handle them surprisingly well.

Some winter friendly options include:

  • Baby blankets
  • Lap blankets
  • Throws made from multiple woven panels
  • Even full sized bed blankets

Blanket weaving is well suited to rigid heddle looms because:

  • You can weave narrower panels to seam together off the loom if loom size is an issue
  • Thicker yarns work well and are extra cosy
  • The end result is incredibly satisfying
  • Double width weaving is a great way to weave a larger blanket

Winter is also a great time for these projects because you’re not in a rush. You can let them unfold slowly and consistently.

Resources for Blanket Weaving

Rainbow Lap Blanket…

Double Width Plaid Blanket…

Double Width Baby Blanket…

Cushions and Homewares for Winter Comfort

If wearables aren’t your thing, winter is a wonderful season to weave homewares. Textiles have been used for a very long time to increase warmth, omit drafts and provide happy colours to homes.

Think:

  • Cushion covers
  • Table runners
  • Wall hangings with a warmer, textural feel

These projects are ideal if you:

  • Want something that will make a difference to your living space/s
  • Enjoy playing with texture or colour
  • Like seeing your weaving used every day

Thicker yarns, weft faced weaving, and simple patterns really shine here, and rigid heddle looms are perfect for creating sturdy, practical fabrics that hold up well to use.

Resources for Cushions and Homewares

Log Cabin Table Runner…

Pick Up Perfection Cushion…

Krokbragd Wall Hanging…

Cowls and Neck Warmers: Small but Mighty Projects

If winter energy is low, and your need to feel warm and cosy is high,  cowls and neck warmers are a fantastic choice.

They’re:

  • Quick to weave
  • Easy to finish
  • Are very yarn friendly
  • Very wearable

A short warp, a cosy yarn, and a simple weave structure can still produce something beautiful and are very welcome on cold mornings.

These are also excellent projects if you:

  • Want fast finishes
  • Are weaving for gifts
  • Need to warm up fast!
  • Need a “palette cleanser” between larger projects

Resources for Neck Warmer and Cowls

The Jewel Cowl…

Neck Warmers Two Ways…

Tips for Choosing the Right Winter Weaving Project

When deciding what to weave in winter, it helps to ask yourself a few simple questions:

  • Do I want something quick or something slow and steady?
  • Do I want to learn, or just enjoy the process?
  • Will I actually use this when it’s finished?
  • Do I need a low yarn project or is a bit more yarn ok?

Winter Is for Cosy, Enjoyable Weaving

Winter is a time for hot tea, warmth, comfort, and making things that feel good to create in the season.

The right project can turn winter weaving into something you genuinely look forward to – hot drink nearby, loom waiting patiently, no pressure at all.

If you’ve been wondering what to weave this winter, I hope this list has sparked a few ideas and reminded you that simple, cosy rigid heddle weaving projects are a great way to keep you warm and happy!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

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

Support My Free Articles Here 😀

Waffle Weave Made Easy: Step by Step Guide for Rigid Heddle Looms

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Waffle weave is a beautiful structure that adds texture and softness to your handwoven projects. In this step-by-step photo tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to create waffle weave using your rigid heddle loom and a pick up stick.

Waffle weave is fun for beginners or any rigid heddle weaver looking to expand their rigid heddle skills. This guide will walk you through the setup and the weaving process so that you can incorporate waffle weave into your repertoire in no time at all.

If you would like to see a video tutorial with closed captions and a free printable PDF that includes the pick up, weaving sequence and yarn details, head over to the Online Weaving School to enrol in the free class.

The Pick Up

The first thing we need to do is insert our pick up stick to create the additional shed we need to weave our waffle weave. Make sure your pick up stick is wider than your warp.

For this particular pattern we’re doing a 2/2 pick up, which means 2 warp threads will be on top of your stick and 2 will be underneath, alternating across the warp.

Ensure that your heddle is in the DOWN position to begin your pick up.

When your pick up stick is in place you can place the heddle back in neutral. Feel free to secure your pick up stick with some waste yarn if you feel concerned that it might slip out of place.

The Weaving Sequence

Load your stick shuttle with yarn. Waffle weave looks great with both contrasting or muted colours, because the texture still makes it pop.

Place your heddle in the DOWN position and weave one pick (row). Beat.

Place the heddle into the UP position. Bring your pick up stick forward to behind the heddle but leave it laying flat. Weave one pick and beat.

* HANDY TIP –

You may need to take the shuttle manually around the edge of your outermost warp thread to prevent it drawing in too far and skipping an edge thread. I have an article that explains this method here.

Place the heddle in the DOWN position once more. Weave one pick and beat.

Place the heddle in UP. Weave one pick and beat.

This step is a bit different. We leave the heddle in the neutral position, slide the pick up stick forward until it sits behind the heddle, then turn the pick up stick on edge to create the shed.

Weave one pick, then beat.

HANDY TIP –

Your pick up stick, once turned on edge may, or may not stay in place. If it keeps wanting to flip down rather than stay on edge, simply hold it with one hand while the other hand holds the pick up stick on edge.

The last shed in the weaving sequence is – heddle UP. Weave one pick, beat.

That is one complete weaving sequence. To continue, you just head back to step 1 and start all over again. Don’t forget that there is a free printable for the pick up sequence, weaving sequence and some yarn details plus a free, closed captioned video tutorial available here.

Ways to use Waffle Weave

Waffle weave has such a lovely texture and can be either eye catching or understated, depending on the aesthetic you’re going for.

The appearance can also be altered according to your chosen yarns. With a thicker yarn (like the DK weight wool I use in this tutorial) your pattern will be bold and spacious. With a lighter weight yarn (like an 8/2 cotton) the pattern will be fine and detailed.

Waffle weave is terrific for utilitarian items, as the texture creates absorbent cloth. Think dish cloths, kitchen towels and hand towels.

A baby blanket (or even burp cloths!) would also be a beautiful item to utilise the loftiness of waffle weave. I’m thinking of a very soft fingering weight or DK knitting cotton to weave a sumptuous fabric fit to be close to delicate baby skin.

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

You can check out a free video tutorial for this technique here –

I hope you can now see the potential and versatility that waffle weave could bring to your rigid heddle weaving projects! For more ideas on how to use pick up sticks in rigid heddle weaving, you won’t want to miss this resource!

Exclusive Printable!

Would you love this tutorial in a printable PDF format? I have a 6 page printable PDF available so that all the steps are at your fingertips. This is an exclusive printable and only available right here ⬇️

Grab the low cost printable here!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Mobius Shawl 10 Year Celebration Project

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This project is designed for the adventurous beginner up to the more advanced weaver.

In this article you will see the basic calculations for the Mobius Shawl Project. There is a Deluxe Printable Version of the pattern available here which includes full calculations, step by step instructions with colour photos and also gives the option of calculations for a full shawl or scarf project to give you more choices and options.

Rigid Heddle Loom Project

To complete this project you do need to know how to warp and weave on your rigid heddle loom, and have ideally completed a project or two (or at least a sample or two).

If you want to learn more about rigid heddle weaving or gain more confidence with your loom before attempting this project, I recommend my online course, Woe to Go Beginner Rigid Heddle Weaving.

You have a lot of yarn choices for a project like this, but when choosing colours I recommend that your warp/ plain weave weft contrasts well with your pattern weft to make your Danish Medallions pop.

For my shawl I used a fingering weight wool for the warp and plain weave weft and a dk weight wool for the pattern weft.

Be sure to follow along with the video for more specific instructions, and grab the printable 15 page Deluxe pattern if you feel you need step by step instructions.

What you need to complete this project:

* Rigid heddle loom 24” weaving width or wider

* 1 x 10 dent heddle

* 2 stick shuttles longer than the width of the project

* Crochet hook or threading hook

* Direct warping peg or warping board

* Reed and threading hook

MOBIUS SHAWL PROJECT INFORMATION

Sett – 10

Number of ends – 238

Number of slots – 119

Width on the loom – 23”

Total warp length – 88”

Weave structure – plain weave with Danish Medallions

Shawl length off the loom – 75”

Wet finishing – Soak garment in warm, mildly soapy water (don’t agitate) for at least 1 hour. Warm rinse, press out excess water between clean, dry towels, gently pull into shape and dry flat in the shade. Dry completely and cut off tails. Press on appropriate iron setting if needed.

Sewing – Flat felled seam, use sewing machine or hand sew

YARNS:

I chose to use Bendigo Woollen Mills 4 ply Luxury (fingering weight) for warp and plain weave.

I used Bendigo Woollen Mills Prism Mystic 8 ply (DK weight) for the pattern weft.

For the warp-

  • Fingering weight (navy) – 145 grams

For the plain weave weft-

  • Fingering weight (navy) – 109 grams

For the pattern weft-

* DK weight (variegated) –   49 grams

The wraps per inch for the fingering weight yarn: 20 wpi

The wraps per inch for the DK weight yarn:  15 wpi

Possible Yarn Substitutes-

Fingering weight-

Jubilee Yarn Merino Fingering weight

Cascade Heritage Sock Yarn

Berroco Ultra Wool Fine fingering

DK weight-

Wool Weave Hand Dyed Merino dk

Nice Wool Gradient

Be sure to watch the video tutorial on Youtube to follow along with:

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

I hope you really enjoy weaving this Danish Medallion Mobius Shawl. Thank you for all your support over the last 10 years, I’m looking forward to the next 10 💕

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

How Many Projects Is Too Many?

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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.

Bright & Beautiful Towels PDF Pattern

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.

Theo Moorman Technique Online Course

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!

Feeling Stuck? 5 Quick 10-Minute Fixes to Break Through Your Weaving Plateau

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Have you ever sat down at your loom and just… stared at it?

You want to weave. You love weaving. But nothing’s sparking your creativity, and everything feels like too much effort.

You’re not alone. Every weaver hits a plateau now and then. Sometimes it’s not enough time or decision fatigue. Maybe it’s a busy time in your life and the creative energy is lacking. Or maybe you just feel a little bored with the whole thing!

The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your whole setup, buy new equipment or start a huge new project to get inspired again.

Here are five quick, low-pressure ideas that take just 10 minutes—but can completely shift your mindset and help you fall back in love with weaving.

1. Switch Up Your Yarn or Color Combo

Sometimes all it takes to reignite your excitement is a little color play. Spend 10 minutes digging through your stash and pull out 3–5 yarns you wouldn’t usually use together—bold contrasts, unexpected textures, or that one skein you’ve been “saving.”

Lay them out, snap a photo, or warp up a quick sample. A fresh palette can open up a whole new direction.

Tip: Look for color inspirations – they are everywhere! In nature, manmade objects, you will even see color when you close your eyes 😀 Try taking inspiration from the color wheel and explore some basic color theory.

2. Test a New Weave Structure (On a small scale)

Trying something new doesn’t have to mean committing to a large project. Choose a weave structure or technique you’ve been curious about—like waffle weave, finger controlled techniques, or krokbragd—and do a tiny sample on a new or leftover warp.

Ten minutes of experimentation can be just the spark you need.

Tip-  For small project ideas, check out this list.

3. Weave a Just-for-Fun Project

Give yourself permission to weave just because. A mini coaster, mug rug, or bookmark can be finished quickly and without pressure—and often leads to surprising bursts of creativity.

Don’t overthink it. Choose whatever yarns catch your eye, and just go.

Tip- If you’re time poor, check out the principles of the 10 Minute Rule and see if it’s something that could be beneficial in your life.

4. Refresh Your Creative Space

It may sound simple, but cleaning up your weaving space has a powerful mental effect. In just 10 minutes you can:

Weaving is as much about mindset as it is about materials—and a tidy, inviting space can make all the difference. A cluttered room makes a cluttered mind!

5. Revisit a Favorite Pattern — But Change One Thing

Remember that pattern or project you loved making? Try it again—but switch up one element. Change the colors, yarn weight, or sett. Add stripes. Try a different finishing technique.

Familiar patterns offer a safe, low-stress way to explore something with a new twist.

Need inspiration? Browse my Pattern Store or check out some student work to see how they made the patterns their own.

The Stepping Up Scarf PDF Pattern for rigid heddle weavers

Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong—it just means your creative brain needs a reset. These 10-minute changes aren’t just about weaving differently; they’re about rediscovering why you love weaving in the first place.

So pick one today. Set aside a little time. And let the joy come back in!

Which fix do you plan to implement in your weaving life? Let me know down in the comments 👇

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

5 Beautiful Leno Weaving Project Ideas for the Rigid Heddle Loom

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If you loved learning how to weave Leno lace on your rigid heddle loom in my previous article, you’re going to be excited about today’s post!

Leno is a beautiful, open-weave technique that adds texture and lightness to your projects. It’s a finger controlled technique that can easily be woven on a plain weave threading and with very minimal tools – all you need is your rigid heddle loom and a pick up stick!

In this post, I’ll share five gorgeous Leno weaving project ideas to inspire your Leno journey.

Let’s dive in!

1. Airy Leno Scarf

A lightweight, lacy scarf is a perfect way to showcase Leno weaving. Use a soft cotton, wool or silk for a breezy, elegant accessory. To add interest, you could use contrasting warp and weft colours. The Garden Path Scarf uses the Brook’s Bouquet weave structure, but is a lovely example of how special a lace weave scarf can look.

2. Leno Market Bag

A sturdy yet flexible string bag is a fantastic use of Leno lace! The open weave allows for some stretch, making it ideal for carrying groceries, beach essentials, books or even yarn. Use a strong cotton or linen yarn for durability. A tapestry cotton or seine twine is the kind of hard wearing yarn you need for a project like this 😉

Check out the digital download PDF pattern for The Farmer’s Market Bag for an easy to follow project.

3. Sheer Leno Curtains

Leno is a very popular structure for weaving airy, light-filtering curtains. Because you are already threaded for plain weave, a hem and top section for hanging are easy to include on each end of your Leno panel. Choose natural fibers like cotton or linen.

4. Table Runner with Leno accent

Although Leno is not really appropriate for a table runner due to its need for some sturdiness and the ability to sit flat on a table, it is very lovely when used as an accent. You could choose to weave a plain weave table runner with recurring repeats of Leno, strategically placed.

Or you could place your Leno in particularly places rather than doing a full row to create Leno sections or windows in your runner.

Coupled with an Italian Hemstich, your table runner would be a real show stopper!

5. Lightweight Leno Wrap or Shawl

A Leno-woven wrap or shawl is perfect for layering over outfits in warmer weather or draped with an evening dress on cooler nights. You could try a sheeny and soft yarn like tencel or bamboo for a luxurious drape. Using the same colour for both warp and weft would create a classy and bold statement piece. Introducing Mexican Lace (a type of Leno as demonstrated in this online class) would make a truly beautiful shawl.

There is a lovely shrug project in Jane Patrick’s The Weaver’s Idea Book on page 74.

More About Leno

Want to undertake one of these projects but you’re not sure if Leno is for you? Check out my free tutorial to get started weaving Leno on an open shed.

And if you’re interested in delving into some more finger controlled techniques like Mexican Lace, Brook’s Bouquet and Spanish Lace, you need the Lovely and Lacey Online Workshop. In this workshop we weave a sampler to practice the techniques, so there is no need to commit to a full sized project.

Leno weaving is a fantastic way to add texture, lightness, and a touch of elegance to your rigid heddle loom projects. Whether you’re weaving a breezy scarf, a sturdy market bag, or delicate curtains, this technique opens up so many creative possibilities and variations.

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

I hope these project ideas inspire you to try Leno in new and exciting ways! Have you woven with Leno before? I’d love to hear about your favourite projects—share your thoughts in the comments below 👇

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Rigid Heddle Weaving Techniques

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The rigid heddle loom is often celebrated as a beginner-friendly weaving tool, but don’t let its simplicity fool you—it’s a versatile loom capable of producing intricate and advanced designs. In this article, we’ll dive into advanced rigid heddle weaving techniques that will elevate your weaving skills and inspire your next project.

Double Heddle Weaving

What It Is:

Double heddle weaving allows you to expand the capabilities of your rigid heddle loom, enabling you to weave with finer threads, create double-width fabrics, or experiment with more complex patterns.

How It Works:

  • Add a second heddle to your loom and thread your warp through both heddles. The exact threading will depend on what you want to do.
  • With two heddles, you can weave a fabric with a doubled sett. Or you can use the extra heddle for additional patterning possibilities. Or you can weave double width, even tubular! There are so many options!

Possible Applications:

  • Patterned scarves or shawls.
  • Double width blankets or throws.
  • Table linens with finer threads.

Tips for Success:

  • Practice warping with two heddles on a small project before tackling larger designs. Consider making just a sample to start with using inexpensive yarn.
  • Follow a quality class or PDF instructions to ensure correct threading and to give you a roadmap.

Resources:

Weaving with Two Heddles (online class)

Plaid Blanket Double Width Ebook

Diamond Stripe Towels PDF Pattern

Pickup Stick Patterns

What It Is:

Pickup sticks allow you to create intricate patterns like lace, floats, and supplemental weft designs by selectively raising warp threads.

How It Works:

  • Insert a pickup stick behind the heddle, with the heddle in the down position and lift specific threads to form a pattern.
  • Combine pickup patterns with plain weave for added texture.
  • As you become familiar with the pick up stick you may want to add more. You can then learn to use heddle rods to enable multiple pick up stick configurations.
  • You can also use a pick up stick with your heddle in neutral to pick up warp threads in front of the heddle for branoe/overshot style weaving.

Possible Applications:

  • Table runners with decorative borders.
  • Wall hangings featuring geometric designs.

Tips for Success:

  • Experiment with a sampler to understand how different pickup patterns work. There are so many different arrangements and patterns to explore. All you need is a plain weave sample and a pick up stick to get started.
  • Keep notes on the sequence of your designs and take photos for future projects.

Resources:

How to use Pick Up Sticks

Converting Pattern Drafts to the Rigid Heddle Loom online class

The Branoe Collection

Pick Up Perfection online class

Supplementary Weft and Warp Techniques

What It Is:

Supplementary techniques involve adding extra threads to the warp or weft to create designs that stand out against the background weave.

How It Works:

  • Use a shuttle or yarn butterfly to weave additional threads into specific sections of the fabric.
  • These threads can be in contrasting colors or textures for added dimension.
  • For the warp, you can plan the supplementary threads as part of the warping process, but they are frequently added after the loom is warped. They can be threaded where desired and weighted over the back of the loom, making them independent of the warp and easy to manipulate.

Possible Applications:

  • Embellished shawls or scarves.
  • Highlighting specific motifs in larger textiles.
  • Making unique designs.

Tips for Success:

  • Keep the supplementary threads loose enough to avoid puckering the fabric.
  • Experiment with different weights and types of yarns (ribbon can be beautiful!)
  • If you need to weight supplementary warps at the back of the loom, these “S” hooks are perfect.

Resources:

Supplementary Weft Tutorial

The Maria Scarf

Exploring Lace Weaves

What It Is:

Lace weaving techniques like leno or Brooks Bouquet create open, airy patterns that are perfect for lightweight, decorative fabrics.

How It Works:

  • Most lace techniques are finger controlled and worked on a plain weave background. Some also use a pick up stick.

Possible Applications:

  • Curtains, scarves, or table linens.
  • Projects that benefit from a delicate, decorative touch.
  • Lace weaves make wonderful scarves and shawls.

Tips for Success:

  • Many lace weaves have a large amount of draw in so be sure to factor that in before starting your project.
  • Lace can be slow to weave up, as much of the manipulation is manual. Don’t let that put you off though, the results are worth the effort!

Resources:

Lovely and Lacy online workshop

The Garden Path Scarf PDF pattern

The Farmer’s Market Bag PDF pattern

All about finger controlled techniques

More Than Two Heddles

What It Is:

Most rigid heddle looms have enough space to fit 3 heddles, enabling the weaver to weave 4 shaft patterns.

How It Works:

  • Use a double heddle block to hold the first 2 heddles. Use a single heddle block along with spring clamps to hold the 3rd heddle for threading. The 3rd heddle can then be suspended by the warp after tie on.

Tips for Success:

  • This is an advanced technique so be patient with your learning journey. Understand that the threading for the 3 heddles can be configured to your own preferences and according to the weaving draft – there is not just one way to go about it.
  • Sometimes a pick up stick will also need to be added to allow for a flow of the weaving.
  • Your 3 heddles must all be the same size (dent).

Resources:

Three Heddle Adventures online course

Weaving 3 & 4 Shaft Patterns on a Rigid Heddle Loom

Combining Techniques for Unique Results

Weaving becomes really exciting when you start to combine techniques you have learned.

  • Use color and weave to create pattern or highlight areas of your weaving
  • Pair lace weaves with supplementary weft for a blend of texture and openness.
  • Add a pickup stick to 3 heddles for even more patterning possibilities
  • Pair a twill pattern with clasped weft

With these advanced techniques, your rigid heddle loom can become a powerful tool for crafting really unique and exciting woven pieces. Whether you’re creating wider fabrics, experimenting with lace, using a 3 or 4 shaft draft, or exploring color and texture, the possibilities are endless. Push your creative boundaries and take your weaving to the next level!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

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

How to Use Pick-Up Sticks: Unlock New Possibilities on Your Rigid Heddle Loom

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Pick-up sticks are a game-changer for rigid heddle weaving. These simple tools expand your loom’s capabilities, allowing you to create intricate patterns beyond plain weave. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to elevate your skills, this guide will help you understand how to use pick-up sticks effectively.

What Are Pick-Up Sticks?

Pick-up sticks are flat, smooth lengths of wood designed to manipulate warp threads on your loom. They allow you to create patterns that mimic the capabilities of multi-shaft looms without adding complex equipment.

On a rigid heddle loom, the warp is divided into two “shafts”—slot threads and hole threads. By incorporating pick-up sticks, you can manipulate the slot threads to create additional “shafts,” opening up a world of pattern possibilities.

Why Use Pick-Up Sticks?

  1. Expand Your Weaving Capabilities:
    • One pick-up stick = 3 shafts.
    • Two pick-up sticks = 4 shafts.
    • Add more for even greater complexity!
  2. Create Beautiful Patterns:
    From simple designs to intricate motifs, pick-up sticks make it possible to weave beyond plain weave.
  3. Learn, Experiment and have Fun:
    They’re an excellent way to play, experiment, and grow as a weaver.

How to Use Pick-Up Sticks

Tools You’ll Need:

  • Pick-up sticks: Slightly longer than the width of your warp.
  • Rigid heddle loom: Set up for plain weave.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start with the Heddle in the Down Position:
    • This raises the slot threads (shaft 2), making them easier to pick up.
    • The hole threads (shaft 1) remain fixed and cannot be manipulated.
  2. Pick Up Warp Threads:
    • Slide your pick-up stick under the threads you want to manipulate.
    • For basic patterns, follow a “1 up, 1 down” sequence (alternate threads over and under the stick).
  3. Position the Pick-Up Stick:
    • Push the stick to the back of your loom when not in use. It will rest flat between the warp threads without interfering with your weaving.
  4. Engage the Pick-Up Stick:
    • When ready to weave a pick-up pattern, bring the stick forward, turn it on its edge, and pass your shuttle through the shed.

Here is a simple weaving sequence as an example:

  1. Up (heddle up)
  2. Down (heddle down)
  3. Up, pick up stick (heddle up and slide pick up stick behind the heddle, leaving flat).

Tips for Beginners

  • Experiment Freely: Don’t worry about understanding all the technical details at first. Play with different sequences and see how the patterns emerge.
  • Follow Patterns: Written instructions like “1 up, 1 down” are straightforward and a great way to learn.
  • Start with Simple Projects: Try my Wash Your Hands Towel Set Project or Lux Hand Towels pattern for guided practice.

Explore More Pick-Up Stick Resources

Would you like this guide in a printable format? How about an 11 page printable guide with 5 additional pick up patterns for you to try? Check out this low cost printable here ⬇️

Grab the Pick Up printable here!

Why You’ll Love Pick-Up Stick Weaving

Pick-up sticks let you unlock the full potential of your rigid heddle loom. Whether you’re weaving a simple scarf or an absorbent kitchen towel, these tools are a must-have for any weaver.

If this guide has been helpful or if you have questions, leave a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

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

5 easy rigid heddle weaving projects for beginners

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Getting your very first rigid heddle loom is such an exciting experience! There are so many possibilities but at the same time, so much to learn. Keep it simple but fun and check out his list of 5 easy rigid heddle weaving projects for beginners.

It’s important to choose projects that are going to be suitable for your weaving level. Be realistic, we all start as absolute beginners and it makes sense to start with an easy project.

This will help you to start to get to know your loom without the stress and pressure of needing to weave at an advanced level.

Let’s get started on the 5 easy project ideas:

Weave a Sampler

A sampler is not necessarily a finished, functional object but it will teach you so very much! Not only does it give you a chance to get familiar with your new loom, it also allows you to try out yarns, practice your weaving and get a better idea of what to expect.

Yes, you do need to use a bit of yarn to warp up a sampler, but I look at it the same way I would look at purchasing a weaving book or class. It’s an investment in my own weaving journey.

Very early on in my rigid heddle weaving journey, I warped a fairly long warp (for a sampler), grabbed my copy of Jane Patrick’s The Weaver’s Idea Book, flipped through until I found something I wanted to try and just went for it!

This was such a valuable project for me, just look at the variety of designs, yarns and colours I got to try! Many from the book, many were my own experiments. I still think of this project, all these years later, as one of the most fun I’ve undertaken.

A sampler can also become a useable item if you wish – a small purse, a mug rug, a notebook cover, there are lots of possibilities.

A Set of Placemats

Placemats are such a perfect beginner’s project. They look great in plain weave and if you want to jazz them up you can always use a fun variegated yarn. Placemats are also a great opportunity to practice finishing techniques, whether that is by knotting, hemstitching or hand hemming and machine stitching.

In my beginner rigid heddle class we complete some simple but beautiful placemats. This is my most popular class as it shows you how to take a bare rigid heddle loom and complete a woven project. You are guided through, step by step on warping, threading, weaving and completing the project as well plenty of tips and encouragement along the way.

How About Weaving Some Towels?

Towels can be a little like an overgrown placemat, and can be a simple project for newer rigid heddle weavers. I do have some advice though, as not all towels are created equal!

As a beginner, I do not recommend that you try to launch into your first towels with a thin and light yarn, like 8/2 cotton. It is better to get some experience and practice under your belt first, as generally a lighter yarn is more challenging to use with a rigid heddle loom.

However, weaving towels with a thicker cotton yarn can be a wonderful experience. Again, you can make it as simple as plain weave or you could incorporate either warp or weft stripes (or both!)

A thicker cotton will result in a light hand towels rather than a kitchen/dish towel.

My free project, the Wash Your Hands Towels pattern could be just what you’ve looking for. While some of the techniques may be considered a little more advance (like pick up sticks and colour placement) the weaver has the option of weaving both towels in plain weave if not ready for other techniques.

Some of the cottons that are suitable for this kind of towel would be:

Bendigo Woollen Mills 10ply cotton

I Love This Cotton

Sugar n Cream

Knit Picks Dishie

Notebook Covers are Fabulous!

Notebook covers in their most simple, low sew format are just a rectangle. The fun thing about a project like this is it can really be customised to reflect your own tastes. You can use a variety of yarns in plain weave and it just looks fantastic.

Weave a sampler that is large enough and you could repurpose that as a notebook cover too!

If the thought of sewing with your hand woven fabric is a bit scary to you, rest assured that it can be a very simple process. If you have a needle and thread, that is enough!

Check out my free Notebook Covers project which guides you through the full process, from weaving the fabric to fitting and sewing it to an existing notebook, all the information is there for you.

I Love Freestyle Tapestry

Oh boy, is this fun! The idea is similar to weaving a sampler, but this time you are weaving a weft faced item.

What on earth does that mean?

It just means that you’re going to use an additional beater (a household fork works just fine!) to beat your weft down to cover all the warp threads.

So, all the colour, texture and excitement happens in the weft threads.

What I really love about this kind of project is you need very little pre-planning. All the designing can be done on the loom, if you want to.

You get to use a variety of yarns from your stash and you have pretty free reign. As long as the weft packs down and stays down, you’re good to go!

Your design could be planned and pictorial or completely abstract and “made up on the spot”.

My free Freestyle Tapestry series was designed on the loom, just by building colour, bit by bit. My Van Gogh inspired tapestry was a little more planned but followed very similar principles.

I have a Tapestry on a Rigid Heddle Loom online class that shows you all the basic tapestry techniques.

I hope you feel super inspired by these 5 easy rigid heddle weaving projects for beginners!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

This post contains affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for further information.

How to weave krokbragd crosses

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Here we are with yet another krokbragd weaving tutorial! It is close to Easter and so the design I chose to weave is in honour of our Lord Jesus Christ ❤️

I won’t explain what krokbragd is, because I have done that already, many times! Instead, if you want to know more, check out some of these links below:

How to weave krokbragd…

Krokbragd 101 Online Course…

Krokbragd Youtube Playlist…

In this tutorial I am weaving krokbragd with two heddles, but you can absolutely use another setup such as a single heddle, pick up stick and heddle rod. Both of these methods are outlined in detail in my Krokbragd 101 course.

What you need for this tutorial

There are all kinds of tapestry or additional beaters, and yes, a household fork works just fine. An additional beater is really essential for krokbragd though, as it is a weft faced weave structure and a regular rigid heddle/reed is not sufficient to beat the weft right down.

I beat the weft down every 3 weft rows – it saves time and is just as effective. Use your heddle to “place” the weft but use the additional beater to pack it down.

We only need 2 weft colours for weaving, so choose one colour that you would like your crosses to be and the other as the background. Make sure your colours have enough contrast to ensure boldness of the design.

You can place your weft yarns on stick shuttles, roll little balls or use yarn butterflies – all these methods work just fine.

Here is how the weft looks after weaving 3 weft rows and prior to packing the weft down.

And here is how it looks once packed down. You want to aim to cover the warp completely.

Now, how to weave.

If using two heddles, your heddle positions will be:

  1. Heddles 1 & 2 up
  2. Heddle 1 down
  3. Heddle 2 down

The colour sequences will be as follows (check colour key for abbreviations):

Colour key: Yellow (Y), Navy (N)

  1. Y,N,N x 5
  2. Y,N,Y x 2
  3. Y,N,N x 2
  4. N,N,N x 3

Exactly how you use the design is up to you – You can weave bands of crosses or repeats of crosses or a row of crosses embedded in strategically, there are so many options!

If you would like to see this sequence in action, check out the following video on Youtube:

I hope you enjoy weaving this design, if you have any questions or comments please leave them down below ⬇️

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!