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materials & details
warping information:
You will be weaving an 8
"
square tapestry,
or a 16
"
x 8
"
piece to fold in half to make
a pillow.
6 epi x 9 = 54 ends (or 8 epi x 9 = 72 ends)
Yardage: 2 yards for warp
yarns for the warp
These must be very strong as they are under
great tension while one is weaving. The weft
needs to be packed tightly, which can cause
the warp to break if is not strong. Cotton twine
is a great warp yarn that is very strong. The
Navajo weavers use a tightly spun wool warp
for their tapestries. Linen is a strong yarn, but
it can be a bit harder to use and can be brittle.
The color of the warp yarns is not important,
as they will not show. The weft yarns should
completely cover the warp yarns. If the warp
showing is part of the design, then it can
be taken into consideration. The majority
of tapestries are woven using white warp,
but a grey or beige could be more restful
to the eyes.
yarns for the weft
A soft-spun yarn will cover the warp ends
more easily than a hard-twisted yarn. On
the other hand, a more twisted yarn would
give the tapestry more body and stiffness.
A 3-ply crewel or tapestry wool is good for
a beginner. It usually is a good idea to use
the same type of yarn throughout the weaving,
so it lies evenly.
For my finished sample tapestry, I used a nice
100% wool yarn called “Peer Gynt.” It has a
nice twist to it, yet it is soft enough that it is
also used as a knitting yarn for Norwegian
sweaters. I used one ball of yarn for each
color in the tapestry.
For many of my tapestries, I have used my
handspun yarns, usually “singles.” I may use
many different kinds of yarns, but usually try
to keep them close to the same weight or
size of yarn. Otherwise, your warp may show.
weaving wisdom
116
Alpacas
Magazine
Tying a double half-hitch knot to secure the warp threads.
double half hitch knot