Kelly Casanova Weaving Lessons

Rigid heddle weaving

Lojan Flex Rigid Heddle Loom Review

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Lojan Flex Rigid Heddle Loom Review: My Honest Thoughts

I’m so excited to share my review of the soon to be released Lojan Flex Rigid Heddle Loom! Now that I’ve had some time to weave with it, I have plenty to say about its features, benefits, and what you should know before adding it to your weaving loom collection.

First Impressions & Setup

Right out of the box, I noticed some interesting differences with this loom. One of the first things that caught my attention was the metal warping rod—a great feature held in place by texsolv cords. This keeps the rod steady while warping, making the process easier and more secure. If you haven’t already, I recommend checking out my assembly video before diving into this review, as I explain all the parts in more detail.

The loom also comes with little rubber feet that do a great job of keeping it stable on the table without clamping! I pulled the loom out a little so that the back rubber feet were over the edge of the table, keeping it from moving as I was direct warping. That’s a nice touch for those who prefer to warp without extra setup hassle.

Warping the Flex Loom

For my first project, I used lovely variegated green wool, alternating with a soft pink. I chose to use direct warping, and I have to say, the process was smooth. One of my favorite warping techniques is using two warping pegs to minimize yarn waste—a little trick I always recommend!

As I started winding on, I noticed that the texsolv cords played another helpful role. When rolling the warp onto the back beam, the cords held the apron rod in place, preventing shifting and ensuring an even tension. When it was time to start weaving, I simply slipped the cords off and let them hang out of the way until next time.

The plastic warp separators that come with the loom are similar in size to traditional cardboard sticks, but a bit more durable. Still, my personal favorite remains brown craft paper, which I use repeatedly for superior warp separation.

Why I Recommend a Stand

Now, let’s talk about comfort. I typically weave with a stand when using a larger loom, and after working with the 50 cm Flex Loom, I highly recommend getting one! Without a stand, I found the weaving angle a bit awkward, making my arms work harder than usual.

Lojan does offer foldable, height adjustable stands, which can be packed away easily. If you’re investing in this loom, I’d suggest grabbing the stand along with it to make your weaving sessions more enjoyable!

Tensioning: A Standout Feature

One of the biggest highlights of the Lojan Flex is the tensioning system. Just like their inkle loom, which I also love, the tensioning is simple, seamless, and smooth. The loom has front and back bars in addition to the warp and cloth beams, helping to maintain excellent tension throughout the weaving process.

If you’ve ever struggled with keeping tension even, you’ll appreciate this design. Plus, it’s very user-friendly for those with hand or wrist issues, making adjustments easy without strain.

Innovative Rigid Heddle Design

Another unique aspect of this loom is its modular rigid heddle design. Instead of a single, fixed heddle, this loom features individual plastic sections that fit together. This means you can:

  • Mix and match different heddle sizes for varied setts.
  • Swap out sections instead of buying an entirely new rigid heddle.
  • Customize your setup for thick-and-thin weaving with a variety of yarns (similar to a variable dent reed).

I found this to be a super clever feature that adds more options to the weaving experience!

Weaving Experience & Final Thoughts

Initially, I tried weaving with the loom flat on the table, using the extra dowels at the back to create a slight incline. However, I quickly realized that the breast beam and back beam sit quite high, making it a bit tricky to get the right angle without a stand. This reinforced my recommendation—if you’re using the 50 cm size, a stand will make weaving much more comfortable!

Overall, I’m really impressed with the Lojan Flex Rigid Heddle Loom. The smooth tensioning, modular heddle system, and well-thought-out features make it a fantastic option for weavers looking for a high-quality, innovative loom.

The top back beam helps the weaver to achieve a beautifully well ordered and well tensioned warp.

What’s in the box?

Whether you purchase the 30cm or 50cm Flex, you will receive:

  • Loom parts to assemble, including screwdriver for simple assembly (check out my assembly video here)
  • A 7.5 heddle reed and heddle sections
  • 2 stick shuttles
  • Direct warping peg and clamp
  • Heddle hook for threading
  • Warp separators
  • Apron rod metal rods and texsolv cords

Optional extras

  • Stand
  • Additional rigid heddle frames and heddle segments, available in sizes 2.5 dpi – 15 dpi.
  • Pick up sticks
  • Additional warping pegs and stick shuttles

Even more options!

The Flex can be used purely as a rigid heddle loom but it can also be much more than that! Shortly there will be the option to upgrade the regular Flex to either a 4 or 8 shaft loom through the purchase of conversion kits. Reverting back to the rigid heddle loom is quick and easy so you can weave what you want, when you want!

The Flex is available now for pre-order (March 2025). If you’re in Australia you can re-order through me 😉 or if in the US, check them out at the Woolery. If you are interested in the Lojan Inkle Loom I have a review of that here.

Want to see the loom in action? Check out the review video here –

Have any questions about the Flex Loom? Let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out my assembly video for a closer look at how this loom comes together.

Until next time…

Happy weaving! 🎨✨

Ask Kelly – Heddle rod or more heddles?

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Today’s question springs from the popular online Krokbragd 101 class for rigid heddle weavers. In that class I show you different options for setting up your rigid heddle loom. You can either opt for a single heddle with a heddle rod or pick up sticks OR you can choose to set up with two heddles.

In many of my classes at the Online Weaving School I try to provide more than one option for loom setup because, well, we’re not all the same! What suits one weaver may not suit another.

When I received this question from Milly I realised that no one had asked it of me before. I wanted to share so that all can benefit.

For context, method one refers to setting up the rigid heddle loom with a single heddle, a pick up stick and a heddle rod.

Method two is a two heddle set up.

“Hi Kelly,

Your video is very informative and very easy to comprehend, thanks for making this and I am glad that I have purchased it. Just a quick question. For Method 1 and 2, in terms of preparation of threading and set up and in terms of speed of completing project such as changing shaft 1-3 for each method, which do you feel more smooth to continue the project and which is faster and convenient do you think?

Budgeting wise, rather than purchasing two heddles, if you have a rod and buying a picking stick it is maybe a bit more cheaper right? But I just wondered about in terms of practical convenience, speeding of threading and completing the project which is better I wonder…?? Appreciate if you can give me your opinion on this:)“

Hi Milly!

It might depend a little bit on the weaver. If you prefer one method it’s probably because you can get it set up easily and quickly? For me personally, method two definitely trumps method one in terms of speed of set up and ease of weaving. I have quite a bit of experience with using more than one heddle now and I “get it”.

But many would say the opposite and say they prefer method one. Method one is undeniably more economical as buying additional heddles of the same dent can be expensive. I usually advise students to purchase the extra heddle if:

A) They are already weaving with pick up sticks/heddle rods and find it cumbersome for any reason (eg. some weavers, myself included, will get neck/shoulder strain from repeatedly picking up a heddle rod) then it could be worth investing in another heddle.

B) If they intend to do a lot of weaving that requires more than the regular 2 shafts it would be worth buying a second heddle.

I hope my response to the question is insightful for all of you but perhaps you are at more of a beginner level?

What is a heddle rod?

A heddle rod is a replacement tool for a pick up stick. When you wish to use more than one pick up stick to create texture or patterning on a rigid heddle loom you may find that the two sticks will not slide past each other.

This is a problem because one stick will need to be removed and the threads picked up again each time you need to weave that pick (row). Hello tedium! 😆

A heddle rod completely bypasses this issue because it can pick up the threads you want, sit behind the heddle and still leave a clear path for a pick up stick.

I have a full, free tutorial that shows you how to install a heddle rod, including how to make your own string heddles.

What About More Than One Heddle?

Weaving with a single heddle, lowering and raising it to weave with, can achieve 2 shafts. But we can add an additional heddle (or heddles) to achieve even more.

For weaving a 3 shaft krokbragd like we do in the Krokbragd 101 online class, this means we can set up the rigid heddle loom with two heddles to achieve the three shafts we need for the weave structure.

As I already pointed out to Milly, I love weaving with two heddles but I understand it’s not the best solution for everyone.

The heddles must be the same size, so if you want to weave your krokbragd with a 7.5 dent heddle, you need two of the exact same size. Naturally, this is a more expensive option than using a piece of dowel or similar for a heddle rod.

There are so many options for weaving with two heddles though, beyond just krokbragd. For some weavers, an additional heddle opens up the world of weaving on a rigid heddle loom in a new way, I know it did for me when I discovered it!

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

Let me know if you found this article helpful by commenting below ⬇️ Heddle rods or two heddles? Do you have a preference?

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.

While you’re here, grab my free Finger Controlled Weaving ebooklet to introduce you to some of the varieties you can weave ⬇

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!

Rigid Heddle Loom Warp & Weft Calculator

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Planning your weaving projects just got easier! This free Rigid Heddle Loom Warp & Weft Calculator takes the guesswork out of determining how much yarn you need for your rigid heddle loom.

Simply enter your project dimensions, sett, and other simple weaving details, and the calculator will automatically determine your warp and weft yardage.

No more running out of yarn mid-project or buying too much—get precise calculations for warp length, weft requirements, and shrinkage allowance all in one place. Try it out below!

If you prefer the old school method of pen and paper, I have you covered for that too! Check out my free printable calculations sheet that also includes a mini class to walk you through filling out the calculations!

Please note, the calculator is not perfect, for example, the weft section at the bottom does overestimate slightly. Hopefully I can fine-tune that!

Warp Calculation Quiz

Calculate Your Warp & Weft Requirements

Width Calculation

Length Calculation

Yarn Requirements

Yarn Required for Warp

Yarn Required for Weft

Love the calculator? I gratefully accept donations ❤️

Need some help to understand and use the calculator? Check out this free tutorial to get you started:

I hope this calculator is super helpful and helps you get started on your weaving project quickly and easily!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Click to support my free resources – thank you! 🤩

The Joy of Rigid Heddle Weaving: A Beginner’s Adventure

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I still remember the thrill of waiting for my very first rigid heddle loom to arrive. The idea that I could create my own handwoven fabric felt like magic. I’d seen weaving videos online, mostly featuring floor looms, and dreamed of starting my own weaving journey, imagining the joy of weaving.

When the box finally arrived, I was filled with excitement—and a little bit of trepidation. I didn’t know any other weavers, and back then, online resources were scarce. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case! Today, rigid heddle weaving is more accessible than ever, and I’m here to help you get started.

Why Rigid Heddle Weaving?

Rigid heddle weaving is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Its accessibility and versatility make it a great choice for anyone eager to explore the art of weaving. Whether you’re looking for a creative outlet or a way to relax, the rigid heddle loom is a wonderful companion and excellent starting point.

What Is Rigid Heddle Weaving?

A rigid heddle loom is a simple, portable loom with a rigid heddle (a frame with slots and holes) that serves as both a beater and a shed maker. It allows you to weave fabrics quickly and easily without the complexity of a large multi shaft loom.

Compared to Other Looms:

  • Rigid Heddle Loom: Affordable, compact, and beginner-friendly.
  • Floor Loom: Larger and more complex, designed for advanced weavers and larger projects.
  • Inkle Loom: Ideal for narrow projects like belts and straps.

Why It’s Fun and Accessible

Simple Setup and Use
One of the best things about a rigid heddle loom is its simplicity. The setup is straightforward, making it easy to get started even if you’re completely new to weaving. With a bit of practice most weavers find that they improve very quickly.

Quick Results
Weaving on a rigid heddle loom allows you to see progress quickly, which is incredibly motivating for beginners. Imagine weaving your first scarf or table runner in just a few hours to a day or two!

Creative Freedom
The rigid heddle loom is versatile enough to let your creativity shine. You can experiment with different yarns, textures, and patterns without needing advanced techniques. Even if you just learn plain weave and decide to mostly stick with that, there are other techniques, such as Color and Weave or Clasped Weft to jazz up your plain weave.

Hands-On Satisfaction
There’s something deeply satisfying about working with your hands. Watching your project take shape on the loom is a tangible reminder of your creativity and effort. Weaving is calming and therapeutic.

Creative Possibilities

Rigid heddle weaving opens up a world of possibilities. You can create:

  • Scarves: Perfect for trying out new yarns and color combinations.
  • Table Runners: Add a handmade touch to your home décor.
  • Wall Hangings: Combine textures and patterns for stunning art pieces.
  • Dish Towels: Practical and beautiful gifts for family and friends.
  • Blankets: Cosy up on cold winter evenings with a bespoke handwoven blanket 🖤

You can also experiment with specialty yarns, hand-dyed fibers, and weaving patterns to make each piece uniquely yours.

A Social Craft

Weaving doesn’t have to be a solitary activity—it’s a way to connect. Many online weaving communities and local guilds welcome weavers of all skill levels. Sharing your progress and learning from others can make your weaving journey even more rewarding.

At the Online Weaving School we have a private member’s group where students share and troubleshoot. It’s a wonderfully supportive and safe space for weavers!

A Source of Income

Yes, you really can make money from your weaving if that is something that interests you. Check out these posts to get you started:

Do you want to start selling your weaving?

3 ways to start selling online for free

Etsy vs Shopify – which is best for selling online?

Getting Started

Ready to dive in? Here’s what you’ll need:

Check out this article for all the basic essential tools I use frequently.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Many weaving stores offer beginner kits or sometimes secondhand looms. Check online marketplaces or local weaving groups and guilds for deals.

Rigid heddle weaving is more than a craft—it’s a way to express your creativity, make beautifully unique items, and connect with a vibrant community of makers. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating your own fabric, there’s no better time to start.

Until next time…

Happy weaving!

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

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.

“Seasonal Weaving Projects: Welcome Spring with Colorful Home Décor”

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Spring is such a wonderful season, bringing with it a sense of renewal and fresh inspiration! It’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your home décor with seasonal weaving projects that celebrate the colors and lightness of the season.

Whether you’re just beginning your weaving journey or have been creating for years, weaving for spring offers endless opportunities to play with vibrant hues, pretty fabrics, and cheerful designs. From brightening up your living spaces to adding handmade touches to your décor, these projects are a wonderful way to welcome the season in style.

Let’s explore how you can bring the beauty of spring into your home with a few simple yet stunning weaving project ideas!

Spring-Inspired Color Palettes: Pastels, Floral Tones, and Fresh Greens

Spring provides weavers with so much inspiration when it comes to color – it feels like all of a sudden color is all around us, bursting to life! Here are some ideas for getting started:

  1. Pastels: Soft and Serene
    Pastels are a hallmark of spring, offering a gentle yet uplifting aesthetic. Shades like lavender, blush pink, baby blue, and buttery yellow evoke the softness of new blooms and fresh mornings. These colors work beautifully in projects where you want a light, airy feel. Pair pastel hues with white or cream for a classic springtime look, or blend multiple pastels for a dreamy, watercolor effect.
  2. Floral Tones: Bright and Cheerful
    For a bolder take, draw inspiration from the vivid colors of spring flowers. Tulip red, daffodil yellow, hyacinth purple, and rose pink can infuse your weaving projects with joyful energy. These colors work well as accents or focal points, especially when paired with more subdued tones like gray or beige to balance their brightness.
  3. Fresh Greens: A Nod to Nature
    Nothing says spring quite like green! From soft sage to vibrant emerald, green hues symbolize growth and renewal. Incorporating fresh greens into your weaving not only mirrors the season’s natural beauty but also adds a grounding element to your designs. Pair greens with floral tones for a garden-inspired look or mix them with neutrals for a calm, earthy feel.

Project Ideas for Spring Home Décor

Many of us dive into spring cleaning with a strong urge to refresh our spaces and embrace the opportunities of a new season. Why not channel that same spirit into weaving projects that enhance your home with clean, airy, and light-filled aesthetics? From soft textiles to cheerful pops of color, weaving offers endless ways to complement the fresh start spring inspires.

  1. Handwoven Table Runners
    • Perfect for springtime gatherings or brunches or just to show off your shiny clean dining table!
    • Try a beautiful, light cotton or cottolin.
    • My free rigid heddle weaving project, The Spring Table Runner incorporates soft cottons in light colors with floral embroidered embellishments.
    • The Log Cabin Table Runner is also a great project for this time of year with a bold design and customisable colors.
  2. Wall Hangings with Floral or Abstract Pastel Themes
    • A pop of colour or harmonious artistic piece to adorn your wall.
    • There is so much licence for creativity when you weave a wall hanging. It can be completely understated to blend with your surroundings or it can be a bold stand out piece.
    • The Art Cloth Workshop is the perfect starting point for a truly unique project that could easily become a wall hanging.
    • If you’re interested in circle weaving, a round hoop also makes a unique decor piece.
  3. Lightweight Throw Blankets
  4. Weaving Cushion Covers
    • Create textured or patterned cushions with bright pops of color. This is such a fantastic way to bring splashes of color that draw the eye but don’t overwhelm.
    • There are many possibilities for design, from a simple and classic plain weave to a more busy twill to a show stopping overshot.
    • The Pick Up Perfection Class project is a gorgeously contrasted cushion cover using thick and bold cottons.
  5. Light Spring Scarf
    • You may not be ready to rug up with a wooly winter scarf just yet but how about transitional garments?
    • The Garden Path Scarf is great for this time of year as the design has a very light, airy and open texture.

Quick Spring Weaving Tips

  • Move outdoors! If you have a loom that is portable, try taking it outside when the weather is pleasant. Weaving outdoors is a wonderful way to relax, enjoy the fresh air and birdsong.
  • Try something new! Experiment with patterns like stripes, plaids, color and weave and so much more.
  • Clean and organise your weaving space! Nothing makes you feel more motivated than a well arranged space where you can find what you need and know what materials you have to work with.

Find your Style

  • Make a Spring Inspired board on Pinterest. Check out what other weavers or interior designers are working on and be inspired by them.
  • Take photographs, especially outdoors. Then you can use an app to generate a color palette for you based on your photo!
  • Get familiar with the basics of color theory.
  • Use online resources like color generators or spring color palette choosers to help you choose colors you love.
For this color palette I used the app Palette Cam and one of my photos from our garden.

Embrace the Season

As the days grow warmer and nature comes to life, there’s no better time to embrace the season with your own handmade creations. Spring is all about renewal, and weaving allows you to infuse your home with fresh colors, light textures, and a touch of personal artistry.

A change in the season is a wonderful opportunity to recharge and reassess. So gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and welcome spring with the beauty of your handmade décor!

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

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.

Troubleshooting Common Rigid Heddle Weaving Issues

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Weaving on a rigid heddle loom is an incredibly rewarding craft, but it’s not without its challenges. Like mastering any new skill, learning to weave takes a bit of time and patience to reach your goals.

In my years as a weaving teacher, I’ve noticed that most beginners encounter the same rigid heddle weaving problems. This is actually a good thing! From a teaching perspective, I can often identify weaving mistakes just by glancing at a piece. From a learning perspective, it means you aren’t alone. Countless weavers have navigated these same hurdles and found the best weaving troubleshooting solutions.

Weaving should be a relaxing escape, but common issues can quickly unravel your peace. Whether you’re struggling with uneven edges (selvedges) or frustrating warp tension issues, these hurdles can leave you scratching your head.

The good news? Most of these problems are preventable with a little extra care and the right weaving techniques.

What This Guide is About

In this guide, we’ll explore why a well-tensioned warp is the foundation of a successful project, how a slow and steady loom setup saves you from headaches later, and how troubleshooting can actually make you a more confident, skilled weaver. Let’s turn those “fix-it” moments into your best learning opportunities!

1. Why a Well-Tensioned Warp is Non-Negotiable

I have no data to qualify this statement, but I feel confident is saying that at least 90% of negative issues encountered in the weaving process are due to something being off with the warp.

Consistency is more important than firmness of tension.

By this I mean that in the warping process you should aim to have all of your warp threads under approximately the same amount of tension, or as near as you can get it.

It’s no good achieving great tension on your edge threads and poor tension in the middle. Or vice versa. The idea being that if your tension is consistent while warping you can then focus on the tightness of the tension afterwards and all the warp threads will be under the same amount of tension.

Uneven tension causes a huge range of headaches to the weaver. Skipped threads, inconsistent edges, uneven or wavy weft picks, snagged or diving shuttles, heddle positions not holding correctly… I could go on!

How To Achieve Great Warp Tension

There are so many methods for warping your rigid heddle loom and it’s definitely not a “one size fits all” process. In my last article I discussed the importance of great warp tension in more detail, so be sure to check that out.

I also recommend that you check out this playlist on Youtube for a variety of methods to consider:

Quick Tips for Good Warp Tension

  • Adjust tension gradually and evenly.
  • Test warp tension by bouncing your hand across the warp once it’s tied on.
  • Separate your warp prior to weaving
  • Take your time and explore different methods to find one that works well for you.
  • If using a slippery yarn like silk or tencel, the lashing on method will stop your tie on knots from slipping.

2. The Virtue of Patience in Setting Up Your Loom – Don’t Rush!

There are many things in life that can be rushed and completed quickly. Weaving is not one of them 😆 Rushing will inevitably cause mistakes due to overlooking an important step or process, trust me on this one!

There is so much more to weaving than simply throwing a shuttle back and forth.

There is the planning of the project, sampling if necessary to ensure appropriate yarns and setts. There is the careful warping, threading and readying of the loom prior to weaving. There is the double checking to ensure correctness of threading and steps (especially important for newer weavers!) And that is all before we actually get to the weaving!

Embrace the process:

  • If you feel impatient initially, try to let the process envelop you and teach you to go slowly.
  • Setting up the loom is an integral part of the craft, enjoy it!
  • Take breaks if you feel frustrated—it helps avoid costly errors and gives you a breather.
  • Try to do your warping in a space where you can leave the loom if needed.

Tips for setup success:

  • Create a checklist (or use my free printable checklist at the bottom of this article!) for each setup stage so you don’t miss any steps.
  • It can be great to have a helper for your first project at least. They can hold the warp for you so you don’t have to focus on more than one thing at once. Another set of eyes can also help to pick up errors you may overlook.

3. Giving Yourself Time to Learn and Reflect

This ties in very closely with the last point on patience, but is less about the physical weaving and more about your learning journey.

We all learn in different ways and to be effective we need to give ourselves a lot of grace when learning something new. Perhaps you are the type of learner who just “get’s it” right away or perhaps you are more like me and need more time.

One thing that I do frequently, and have since I started weaving, is to grab one of my weaving books off the shelf and quietly flick through to see what strikes me that day.

Repetition is so good and necessary for learning. There have been many concepts that I had convinced myself I was not smart enough to learn, but it just takes persistence and not giving up on yourself.

Weaving is a journey, not a race:

  • Learning takes practice; each project builds skills. Start small and grow as you go.
  • Mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow.

Tips for cultivating a learning mindset:

  • Keep a weaving journal to note challenges and solutions.
  • Reflect on what worked and what didn’t after each project, and why.
  • Seek out advice and resources from weaving communities.
  • Have good quality books in your weaving library to refer to over and over.

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues (and How to Avoid Them)

These are what I typically see to be the most common issues that new rigid heddle weavers will encounter. Don’t forget – everything is fixable in weaving! 😀

Uneven edges (selvedges):

  • Causes: inconsistent weft and/or warp tension, improper beating, fraying edge threads, inappropriate warp threads used.
  • Solutions: Ensure proper warp tension to begin with, try to beat evenly, be sure to use a yarn that is suitable for warping. If edge threads are too loose, try using weights on those threads over the back of the loom. If they are too tight and middle threads are looser, try some wedging techniques as demonstrated in this video.

Broken warp threads:

  • Causes: tension too tight or uneven (so some threads end up super tight while others are loose), friction from the heddle (some yarns are more susceptible to this than others).
  • Warp yarn is not strong enough to be suitable for warping.
  • Solutions: choose a suitable warping yarn, ensure warp tension is not exceedingly tight, angle your weft before beating so it has room to settle rather than drawing in too much at the edges.

Skipped threads:

  • Causes: threading errors, uneven tension, incorrect angling of a stick shuttle as it travels through the thread. These problems will create floats and imperfections in your work.
  • Solutions: check threading, rethread problem areas if needed. Be vigilant with how you use your shuttle so it’s not inadvertently picking up warp threads it shouldn’t.

Gaps, uneven and slightly scrappy weaving:

  • Causes: uneven beat, inappropriate sett, slippery yarns, inconsistent warp tension.
  • Solutions: Getting a feel for a correct beat takes time and practice. For a balanced weave, you want a balanced beat. Try to think of pressing your weft into place, we are not whacking here! Hop up and view your work from a few different angles every now and then. Take photos of your progress and review. (Why? For some reason, mistakes stick out like a sore thumb when viewed as a photo! 🤷‍♀️) Again, an uneven warp will impact how your weaving appears. An incorrect sett will have a big effect on your finished weaving, so make sure you figure out the ideal sett before commencing.

It’s good to remember that challenges are part of the weaving journey. I have never personally made a weaving mistake that I couldn’t fix, which is very encouraging!

Having a community to turn to when your weaving is not going so well is invaluable. If you can’t meet with other weavers in person, online groups like my free Facebook group are wonderful for networking and inspiration.

Perhaps you’re ready to level up your weaving in a really supportive atmosphere with a library of online classes at your fingertips? Check out the Online Weaving School!

I hope these tips have been helpful to you, feel free to share your favourites in the comments below.

I have also put together a downloadable Rigid Heddle Loom Setup Checklist as a free resource just for you, enjoy!

Rigid Heddle Loom Setup ChecklistDownload

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!

Support My Free Content Here 😀

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

Why Rigid Heddle Looms Are Perfect for Creative Souls

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For those with a passion for creativity, the rigid heddle loom can be a tool that bridges the gap between artistry and craft. Whether you’re a fibre art novice or an experienced weaver looking for freedom, this versatile loom opens up endless possibilities for expression.

Here’s why rigid heddle looms are the perfect companion for creative souls:

1. Simplicity Meets Flexibility

Rigid heddle looms are delightfully simple. They’re approachable for beginners with minimal setup, yet they offer flexibility for more complex weaves. This combination gives creative minds the freedom to experiment without getting overwhelmed.

Once you have the basics down you can choose to either keep your rigid heddle weaving simple or expand in a multitude of ways.

  • Perfect for Play: Quickly try new yarns, colors, and patterns. Many weavers will use a rigid heddle loom like a Sampleit to weave either small items (it’s wide enough to weave a scarf!) or just to try out new yarns, setts and patterns by simply sampling.
  • Faster Gratification: Small projects can be finished in a day, sparking momentum for your next idea. A rigid heddle loom is super fast to warp and thread, letting you get to the weaving quickly!

2. Portable Weaving Freedom

For those who see creativity as a lifestyle, portability is key. Rigid heddle looms come in a great variety of sizes and the smaller ones are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for:

  • Creating at home (even if you’re lacking space), on vacation, or during creative retreats.
  • Weaving wherever inspiration strikes—your studio, living room, or garden.
  • Taking your loom out to guild or weaving group meet ups

3. A Canvas for Color and Texture

Rigid heddle looms provide so much opportunity for experimentation with colour, texture, and yarn. They’re a dream for fibre artists who:

  • Love mixing hand-dyed yarns, textures, or even unconventional materials.
  • Enjoy colorwork techniques like stripes, gradients, and clasped weft weaving.
  • Love the idea of weaving with their handspun yarn

Your loom becomes a blank canvas ready to showcase your artistic flair, however that may look for you!

4. Affordable and Accessible

Rigid heddle looms are among the most budget-friendly looms available, making them perfect for creatives who want to dip their toes into weaving without a hefty investment. With only a starter rigid heddle loom, shuttle, and some yarn, you’re ready to create.

Rigid heddle looms are used by many weavers who have mental or physical disabilities as they are so accessible.

Rigid heddle looms have great resale value. If you find that weaving is not for you, you decide to upgrade or your circumstances change, it is not hard to find a keen buyer.

5. Endless Room for Growth

Creative souls crave new challenges. The rigid heddle loom grows with you:

  • Simple Techniques: Start with plain weave. You can begin with solid coloured yarn or switch it up with different colours or variegated yarn.
  • Building Skills: Explore colour and weave. Add pick-up sticks, hand-manipulated lace, or tapestry-style accents.
  • Advanced Exploration: Try double heddle weaving for more complex patterns. You can even weave with three or more heddles or make extra shafts with pick up sticks and/or heddle rods.

6. Mindful Creativity

Weaving on a rigid heddle loom is a soothing, meditative process. The rhythmic movement of the heddle and shuttle creates a sense of peace and relaxation. Many weavers find that weaving helps them through difficult life periods as it switches their focus as they become immersed in the process.

  • Calm your mind and relax after a busy day.
  • Find joy in slowing down and savoring each thread you weave.

7. Small Loom, Big Potential

Rigid heddle looms encourage small projects that inspire big ideas. Scarves, wall hangings, table runners, or even fabric yardage—every project becomes a mini-experiment in design.

A huge variety of yarns can be used with a rigid heddle loom. I usually recommend that new weavers start out with some inexpensive and simple knitting wool around a dk weight, which is perfect for the 7.5 or 8 dent heddle that comes with your loom.

Knitting yarns are very accessible, whether you purchase online or in a physical store and the choices for colour and style are massive.

Unleash Your Inner Artist

Whether you’re a painter, knitter, a maker of all kinds, or don’t even consider yourself to be creative, rigid heddle weaving invites you to think outside the box and inside the loom. Let your creativity flow as you blend fibers, colors, and techniques into one-of-a-kind masterpieces.

Ready to try weaving? A rigid heddle loom might just become your next favourite creative tool. I have so many resources to get you started!

Check out my best selling Beginner Rigid Heddle Weaving Online Course to learn all about your rigid heddle loom and weave a beautiful placemats project from start to finish.

“Kelly, thank you very much for this course. I watched a trillion of free youtube tutorials before deciding to take your course. All is in the details! For so many little problems a beginner can meet you are giving explanations and solutions. Much worth its money.”

Frieda

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You will also find many helpful articles to explore right here.

And don’t forget to check out my Youtube channel for hundreds of rigid heddle beginner friendly videos:

Until next time…

Happy Weaving!