How To Set Up A Traditional Loom

Method

As shown in the previous guide, the "up and down" or "warp" threads are set up on a warping board, passing through two sticks in a figure of eight, to keep the colours in order. These threads are spread across the back beam of the loom in this order.

Next the warp threads are passed through hundreds of heddles which are attached to four shafts, in a particular configuration, passing through these heddles into the reed.

The reed is encased in the beater and each thread is passed through a space in the reed. Here you are spreading out the threads to the width you want your cloth to be.

Finally you tie the foot pedals to the lams in the middle of the loom, and then to the shafts mentioned in the second step. By pressing the foot pedals you are creating a space for the shuttle to pass through. Some time and care can be spent at this last stage adjusting the loom to ensure everything moves and works smoothly.