Handwoven Scarves Embellished with Flair
- By Karen
- March 31, 2020
- 20 Comments
You could say I finished these scarves too late. Winter in Texas has come and gone. But I prefer to think of it as considerably early. When cool weather comes back around in a few months, I’ll be ready. I began with the draft for the lovely Stardust scarf, designed by Mona Nielsen, published in Happy Weaving, from VävMagasinet, p.74. I simply substituted the yarn and colors in the book with what I had on hand.
The scarves are delightful, but the icing on the cake is the addition of fluffy, furry pompoms, an embellishment with youthful flair. And that is exactly what I will put on at the first sign of autumn chill.
Some things are certain. The sun will rise tomorrow. The seasons will follow their schedule. The faithfulness of the Lord our God will never end.
May you dress in youthful flair.
Warmly,
Karen
20 Comments
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Swedish Art Weaves with Joanne Hall
- By Karen
- March 10, 2020
- 18 Comments
Krabbasnår (or Krabba), Rölakan, Halvkrabba, Dukagång, and Munkabälte (Monksbelt). These unique weaves have intrigued me since I first saw photos of them. Some of the designs look like hand-stitched embroidery. The Swedish Art Weaves workshop with Joanne Hall introduces the simple techniques used for weaving these traditional patterns. I’m thankful to have the opportunity to learn how to weave these beautiful designs for myself.
Joanne’s presentation to the San Antonio Handweavers Guild was enlightening. Photos of her travels to Sweden show how the rich weaving heritage there continues to thrive. That, along with Joanne’s knowledge of Swedish weaving traditions, gives context to these Swedish art weaves.
Väv 2/2013 has instructions for the art weaves. I have the magazine issue, but Joanne’s workshop brings the historical techniques to life and makes them understandable. That is exactly the prompting I needed to begin exploring these fascinating patterns on my own loom.
May something historical be your new interest.
Happy Weaving,
Karen
18 Comments
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Beth says:
Beautiful! I’m curious, how long did it take to weave this piece?
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Hi Beth,
As with most weft-faced weaves, this is not fast weaving. I was happy to be able to finish this much in a 2 1/2-day workshop. I’m eager to do more of this slower-paced weaving at home.
Thanks,
Karen
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Charlotte says:
Brilliant that you were able to take your loom…your beautiful loom…your piece is absolutely lovely. The colors in your top match the colors in your cloth. Fun!!!! And, lovely cloth!!!!
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Hi Charlotte,
I’m fortunate to have a countermarch loom small enough to be dismantled and relocated. It was a satisfying workshop. So enjoyable to make these unique patterns in the cloth!
Thank you,
Karen
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Vivian says:
Your explanation is bright and helpful. I will shelve these weaving methods. I have been interested in the weaves and you have helped untangle the concepts as well as highlight the various groups of Swedish weave structures.
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Hi Vivian, I hope you get a chance to try these interesting weaves. It’s an enjoyable way to spend time at the loom.
Thank you,
Karen
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How timely, I’ve just written my deposit check this morning for a guild workshop we’ll be having with Joanne this coming fall.
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Hi Cindie, I’m sure you will learn a lot. Joanne has a wealth of experience. I love learning from her.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Jane Milner says:
I recently took the same class with Joanne Hall at the Eugene Textile Center in Eugene, Oregon. Lots of fun, and I learned a lot!
Is your small loom a Glimakra? What is it?
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Hi Jane, I agree, this is a really fun workshop.
My little loom is made in the Swedish style. My husband built it for me. He’s pretty amazing.
Karen
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Wow…it’s beautiful! How wide is it? Countermarche or counterbalance?
Jane
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Jane, The loom has a 27” weaving width. It is countermarch, with 4 shafts, 6 treadles. It weaves like a dream.
Karen
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Anonymous says:
I just got myself a 32 in Heddle. I’d like to make small Matt’s and runners. I live in Chilliwack B.C. Can you direct me to a class?
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Hi new weaver, I am not connected with any rigid heddle loom classes. There are some good books on rigid heddle weaving. A book by Syne Mitchell, Liz Gipson, or Jane Patrick would be a great place to start.
All the best,
Karen
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Ladella from Portland Oregon actually knows Joanne Hall! Also she went to college with my cousin! I highly recommend her as a weaver with considerable experience! She has a wealth of knowledge and experience! Happy Weaving! I have been weaving forever it seems!
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Hi Ladella, How wonderful that you have a personal connection with Joanne. Her weaving knowledge and experience can’t be matched. What I love about Joanne is her kind and gentle manner as she patiently passes on her knowledge to her students.
Thank you for chiming in!
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Arlene says:
Facinating.. can you suggest a book but I could follow the technique …thanks in advance Arlene
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Hi Arlene, Yes, I recommend Heirlooms of Skåne: Weaving Techniques, by Gunvor Johansson. Vavstuga.com carries the book. The author covers all these techniques in detail. It’s a beautiful book.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Process Review: From Drawloom to Garment
- By Karen
- January 28, 2020
- 35 Comments
I warped the drawloom with gray 6/2 Tuna wool several months ago with the goal to make fabric for a reversible vest. The beautiful drawloom fabric turned into dreamy garment-worthy fabric after washing! (See Process Review: Drawloom Jewels)
And then I hit two huge hurdles.
Hurdle 1. Fit.
In order to cut into handwoven drawloom fabric, I need assurance that the end result will fit me. My sewing assistant helped me refine a commercial pattern.
After umpteen muslins and two or three mock-ups, I finally got the fit I was after. Confidence to cut!
Hurdle 2. Garment Construction Uncertainties.
Do some detail studies, my dear friend Elisabeth said to me. Her advice got me over the insecurity hurdle. A detail study is making a small sample to test a hypothesis or answer a question. I made a list of everything I wanted to know about constructing a vest from this type of handwoven wool fabric. And then, using some of the extra fabric from the sampling at the beginning of the warp, I did a detail study for each point on the list. Twelve detail studies in all.
(If you are interested in seeing my complete list of 12 detail studies for this project, click HERE to send me an email and ask for my “Detail studies”.)
Here are a few examples of my findings:
- Zigzag before or after cutting? // Zigzag before cutting, stitch width 3, stitch length 2 1/2
- Lapped seams? 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”? // Yes, lapped seams, overlap 1/2”, stitch basted line to guide placement
- Neck and armhole curves – staystitch with hand running stitches or machine stitching? 1 row or 2? // Hand running stitches, 2 rows
From the results of the detail studies I was able to compile a step-by-step garment construction plan. Confidence to sew!
Follow my process pictures of the garment construction to see the results:
May you find ways to leap over your hurdles.
Love,
Karen
35 Comments
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Geri Rickard says:
Oh My! It turned out so well, though there was never any doubt in my mind! You must be so proud! I love how it looks on you. You are so inspiring!
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Hi Geri, Thank you! This was one big learning experience for me.
Thanks for following along,
Karen
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Tena says:
This is so stunning! As a beginner weaver, I hope to aspire to constructing woven garments someday!
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Hi Tena, Constructing woven garments is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I’m glad to see you’re on the same quest!
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Marianne says:
I’ve been peeking at your website for years and have always found it so inspiring! Your creativity seems to be boundless! Your vest turned out beautifully! Thanks for so generously sharing your process in making your projects. I have found so many tips and helpful instruction from you about weaving and also life!
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Marianne, Thank you for your heart-warming comment. It is my delight that someone like you comes along on this journey with me!
Thank you, thank you,
Karen
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Bev Romans says:
An absolutely beautiful result, Karen! And you have taken such care in each step along the way.
Blessings to you!
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Hi Bev! It’s taking time to mind the details that brings about good results, as you know very well in your beautiful quilting projects.
Blessings to you, too!
Karen
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Betsy says:
It’s gorgeous, Karen! I am in awe of your patience, as well as your weaving and sewing skills.
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Hi Betsy, It’s this gorgeous loom of yours that made it possible. I have the pleasure of sitting at the drawloom and making things from it. Yes, it did take an extra degree of patience to push this project to completion.
Thank you, friend,
Karen
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Joanne Hall says:
I really need to get my Tuna yarn drawloom fabric made into a vest. Thanks for showing us yours. I started to think that I needed to make it a pullover to avoid all the hand stitching in the front. Hmmm. I am still thinking.
Joanne-
Hi Joanne, I’m eager to see what you do with your beautiful Tuna yarn drawloom fabric! The hand stitching was very pleasant to do. I enjoyed it. I’d sure like to see a picture of your vest when you complete it.
Happy thinking,
Karen
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LJ Arndt says:
Awesome. Love the pattern and colors.
Question. Was the back done in 1 piece or 2, if 2 could it have been one piece or to fit properly did it have to have a center seam?-
Hi LJ, Thank you!
Great question. I intended the back to be one piece, and the sides to each be a single piece. But I was able to get a better fit by putting in a back seam, and making a seam down the sides. This was part of my fit dilemma. I wove the fabric with those single pieces in mind, but the outcome of the mock-ups was just too boxy for my petite frame. Someone with more fitting experience may be able to make the single back piece work.
Thanks for asking,
Karen
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Annie says:
I can’t decide which side I like best! Both look great on you, Karen.
I am going to download your steps because I hope to get the courage to try sewing with my handwoven fabric someday soon. As I am just a beginning level sewer, I was surprised at all the consideration needed; such as the width of seams, length of stitches, etc.. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
Oh, and I recently purchased the book you recommended to me, Karen. The Big Book of Weaving by Laila Lundell. My plan is to do as you recommended and follow through from the beginning.
Looking forward to your future posts.
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Hi Annie, I’ve always been partial to reversible garments. It’s fun to have two garments in one!
Happy weaving journey to you!
Karen
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Shari says:
You are truly amazing and so capable! How timely to talk about embracing your hurdles! Can’t imagine KI would have hurdles! You and your vest look lovely! There is a woman sheep farmer, weaver environmentalist in CA who has raised the sheep and wove the fiber into yardage and sold the yardage on a limited basis. I bought a small amount and have been thinking about what to make with it. It’s a beautiful white, unused fabric! Your experience and blog posting here will be immensely useful for my sewing project. Thanks!
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Hi Shari, Me and hurdles? oh yes, more than you’ll ever know!
Your undyed wool yardage sounds lovely! I know you’ll make it into something memorable. I’d love to see pictures when you’re done.
Thanks for all your kind words,
Karen
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The above posting has a typo. The yardage is natural, undyed yardage. I think the weave structure is twill.
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D'Anne says:
Beautiful work, Karen! I wish you were here to model it for us at WOW. We miss you!
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Mary Still says:
Wow! Beautiful!
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Allison Grove says:
Gorgeous fabric! Thanks for sharing your process and how you worked through it.
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Nancy Martin says:
Dear Karen, what a find to have found you in cyber space! So enjoy your website and your talents and your sharing and blogs etc. Wow, your work is an inspiration and the vest is beautiful. What a wonderful experience it must be to have totally created this wearable garment from simple thread to weaving to designing and cutting and sewing. Amazing!! God bless you and so glad I “tuned” in. Best regards, Nancy
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Hi Nancy, You have touched my heart. You so perfectly captured my sentiments! – It is extremely satisfying to start with thread and design actual fabric, and end up with a wearable garment. It feels like a dream come true.
God bless you,
Karen
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Kristin Girod says:
Your vest is beautiful and looks so lovely on you! Thank you for your generosity in sharing your project experience with us. Your blog is a treasure!
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Hi Kristin, Your kind words are a treasure to me. I’m so happy to have like-minded friends to share these things with.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Lovely work, it’s nice to see someone doing woven garments rather than tea towels or scarves; much as I love those things I started weaving in order to make my own fabric for sewing.
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Hi Rachelle, How fascinating that you started weaving so you could make garment fabric. It’s something I’ve been interested in for quite a while, too. It’s tricky to get all those skills to work together, but it’s fun to keep learning.
Thanks for chiming in!
Karen
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Karen,
You are such a detail person.
BEAUTIFUL vest!!!!
Perfect to go over a sequined gown or jeans.
I hope you wear it often.Nanette
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Hi Nannette, You’re right, I do enjoy paying attention to detail.
I don’t have a sequined gown, so mostly it will go with jeans or a simple skirt.
Thank you so much!
Karen
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Ladella Williams says:
Very interesting to see this view. I recognize many of the responders names. In awe as I only weave on an 8 shaft Bergman. I have woven on others drawlooms though! So am familiar with the process. At least four projects or more. I can enumerate many including one that is in one magazine.
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Hi Ladella, Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Drawlooms are very interesting looms to weave on. There are projects in some Väv Magazine issues that I would like to try.
All the best,
Karen
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Weaving Ideas – Year in Review Video
- By Karen
- January 7, 2020
- 16 Comments
Everything starts with an idea. And some of those ideas become tangible expressions of dreams come true. Who knew that a simple idea in 2012 would lead to a seven-year exploration of weaving through The Big Book of Weaving? (See Weaving through The Big Book.) Who knew that weaving on a drawloom in 2016 at Homestead Fiber Crafts would plant the idea of weaving on a drawloom of my own? (see Quiet Friday: Day at the Drawloom.) And who knew that an idea in 2013 to write about my weaving journey, calling it Warped for Good, would bring friends like you to come and enjoy the journey with me? For these things and so much more, I am truly grateful.
Your ideas are priceless. That’s because you are priceless. You were made in God’s image, with the ability to imagine wonderful intricacies through creative thinking. In fact, you began as God’s idea. As we walk with him, we become the tangible expression of his dream come true.
Grab a cup of coffee or tea and sit here with me to reminisce over the past weaving year.
May this year bring your best ideas ever.
For you,
Karen
16 Comments
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Joyce Lowder says:
Karen: You are such an awesome servant and ambassador for God! Your comments have always captured my attention, but this one really spoke to me! I even wrote your words down to read to a friend who has a birthday today. I respect and admired your creativity and the effort you invest in sharing! It all takes time and effort, but I can see that your heart is in what you do…and your heart belongs to God. May God continue to bless you in this year of 2020! 🙂
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Hi Joyce, It’s a pleasure to be able to share what I enjoy. Thanks for your thoughtful words. I’m glad to have you along with me.
Happy weaving new year,
Karen
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It was fun to see all that you have done this past year. And I enjoyed seeing that photo of our winter drawloom class and the samplers on the drawlooms. You have done a lot of weaving already in your new home. I look forward to what you weave after our art weaves workshop next month. See you then.
Joanne-
Hi Joanne, That drawloom class was a highlight for the year. I’m thankful to be in a place and season of life that suits my weaving endeavors.
I am looking forward to the art weaves class. I still have so much to learn!
See you soon,
Karen
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Cynthia H. says:
Karen, what an amazing artist you are, beautiful work. Cant wait to see what you will be working on next. Say hi to Steve for me. Cynthia H.
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Hi, Cynthia, It’s so special to have you along on this journey. Thanks for your encouragement!
All the best,
Karen and Steve
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lanora dodson says:
This was inspiring on SO many levels! It brought a sense of peace, wonder, and excitement all at the same time. Thank you for sharing and cannot wait for the coming year to see what you’ll be creating!
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Lanora, I feel like I just received a big hug! Thank you so much.
Happy you are here,
Karen
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Karen,
Thank you for sharing!
I will need to watch the video a 4 or 8 or 10 more times to absorb everything you did in 2019.
The close ups are welcome.
Nannette-
Hi Nannette, You make me smile. Thanks for walking along with me all through the year.
Karen
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You’ve had a beautiful, productive year! You and your work are so inspiring, bringing excitement, curiosity, and clam all at the same time. I can’t wait to see the siblings completed and what’s to come in 2020.
Happy New Year, Karen!
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Hi Beth, It’s good to have a sense of accomplishment. I always enjoy seeing your beautiful woven creations on IG. We both had a year rich with weaving. I’m glad to have your friendship on this journey.
Happy New Weaving Year,
Karen
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Johanna McGuirk says:
Dear Karen
I am very keen to get the details for the electric bobbin winder as I am frustrated using the hand drill. Would it be possible to supply me with more details please? Hopefully my husband or son can put one together for me.
Kind regards
Johanna-
Hi Johanna, I am happy to share the details for the electric bobbin winder that Steve made for me.
I will send you an email with the information.
All the best,
Karen
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Karen, thank you so much for sharing your video. It was both inspiring and calming. A beautiful expression of pure creativity expressed through our traditional craft. Love your work.
Barbara-
Hi Barbara, I’m so glad the video meant something to you. It’s a treat to share these things among like-minded handcrafters.
Thank you,
Karen
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Looms Quietly Waiting
- By Karen
- December 24, 2019
- 17 Comments
Merry Christmas Eve to you. Looms are quietly waiting to resume their rhythm. Meanwhile, songs of joy and hope fill the air because the Savior of the world is born.
Pictorial tapestry, with only 6 centimeters of the cartoon remaining.
Second rosepath rag rug completed. Two short rugs yet to be woven on this warp.
First of two scarves is started. I am using the Stardust draft by Mona Nielsen, published in Happy Weaving, from Vävmagasinet, but with yarn and colors of my choosing.
Warp is threaded and tied-on. Single-unit draw cords have been prepared. Next step: Attaching draw cords to pattern units. And then, tie up treadles and start weaving!
May your night be silent and holy, calm and bright.
Happy Holy-days,
Karen
17 Comments
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Glad your looms are waiting and that you are too, to enjoy this sacred, special holiday! Enjoy the peace and love and joy that only this Savior of ours can offer! God Bless you in this new year and Happy Weaving! 🙂
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ellen b santana says:
Dear karen–God bless you also, and Merry Christmas, and thank you. ellen
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Merry Christmas! Your words are as beautiful as your weaving.
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Joanna says:
God Jul! May 2020 be truly Light filled.
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Merry Christmas, Karen!
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Merry Christmas, Karen! May the season bring peace and joy to you and your loved ones.
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Karen Simpson says:
A most merry and blessed Christmas….thank you for being part of our lives!
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Merry Christmas Karen,
We celebrated my husband’s 1st annual birthday bonfire last night. Picture perfect snow cover in wausaukee. First time I was not able to blast up the snow covered driveway. A 4WD is in my future.
Today is a travel day back to our other home in time to spend Christmas day with grandchildren. The snow was gone by Green Bay. Small price for being loved on by little people.
My loom is silent. But, I am blessed to gorge on life this year.
May you enjoy life away from your looms.
Nannette
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Cindy Bills says:
Merry Christmas, Karen!
Thanks you for creating this inspirational weaving blog and delighting us all year with your projects. May the blessings of our Lord be with you this holiday season as we celebrate our Savior’s birth!
Copyright © 2020
Very pretty! I love the pompoms!
Take care!!
Good morning, Beth, The pompoms are my favorite part.
Thanks,
Karen
So, so, so precious! And! Your scarf is pretty special, as well!!!
Hi Charlotte, Thank you! We have so much to be thankful for, don’t we?
Be blessed with health and well-being,
Karen
It’s gorgeous! What a clever way to add Pom poms!
Hi Marianne, Thank you so much! The idea for the pompoms came from the book Happy Weaving. That’s what drew me to this scarf pattern.
All the best,
Karen
Hi, Karen!
I love the colors and pattern of this scarf. And the pom poms are the perfect touch. Thank you telling us how they were made and attached. I always learn from you.
Please stay safe and healthy.
Annie
Hi Annie, I’m glad you can learn something here. That’s always my hope.
Thank you,
Karen
Love the addition of Pom Poms. I haven’t used tuna wool before but recently purchased many skeins for a throw. I know you’ve used quite often, what do you find the best sett for a lovely drape for a twill structure?
Hi Janet, My favorite twill blanket from Tuna wool is the one I made at Vävstuga. You can see the info for the project here: Swedish Wool Blanket.
Tuna wool is an excellent choice for a throw. I think you will enjoy weaving with it, too!
Happy weaving,
Karen
What a beautiful and “happy” scarf I have never seen this pom pom maker before, a neat tool, thank you for showing us!
Elisabeth
Hi Elisabeth, I happened upon the pompom maker while browsing at Hobby Lobby. I knew I wanted this embellishment for my scarves, so I was happy to find a helpful tool. It beats cutting out cardboard circles to wrap with yarn–one fluff ball at a time. It wouldn’t be hard to make a similar tool at home.
I, too, think of this as a “happy” scarf.
Thank you,
Karen
Such a fun scarf!
Hi Betsy, I agree. It may be the funnest scarf I’ve ever made. 🙂
All the best to you,
Karen
Hi Karen,
What a pretty scarf. With the early Spring in Wisconsin, it is too warm to wear it here until November. More time for anticipation.
My looms were taken to the retirement home Friday. The chipper was brought back so my sister can dispatch the 5 mature trees she dropped.
Now I am going through my sewing room. Oh My, Why did I buy some of the things I am finding? Three piles. Donate, Sell, Take with me. Too many decisions. Where did I get all those cards of snaps from 1960?
Are any of your readers in health care? I am wondering if the cloth face masks being shown as projects are something that can be used in the medical system, or are they just fashion statements? When the other grandchildren were born I would take a home made treat to leave with the nurses. This year I could leave some cheerful cloth masks…
This latest grandson can come at any time.
Blessings to all.
Hi Nannette, Congratulations on your coming grandson. Life is full of twists and turns. I’m glad you have a place for looms in your new home. That gives you something to look forward to.
Blessings to you,
Karen
Beautiful! May I ask, when weaving with a stretchy wool warp, do you tension it tightly so the stretch is maxed out?
The pom poms are a great use of ends. Thank you for your kindness, always.
Betty
Hi Betty, Great question! No, I don’t tension tightly to max out the stretch of the wool. I don’t want to over-stretch the wool. You have to find a happy medium so that it is tight enough that the shuttle doesn’t fall through, but not so tight that it will stretch the fibers out too far.
I’m always happy when I can find a good use for some of the thrums. Who knows, maybe I’ll start putting pompoms on everything. 🙂
Happy weaving,
Karen
These are gorgeous. I am so inspired by your weaving and sharing.
Thank you
Hi Jan, I appreciate your encouraging words.
Thank you,
Karen