I got KM’s wrap started. She asked me to weave the tails with a different color pattern. The rest of the weft is all black.
I’m now about halfway through the weaving. I have a long meeting to go to tomorrow, so I don’t expect to be able to finish it and move on to SB’s till Wednesday.
A few posts ago I mentioned Kati Reeder Meek‘s book and her live weight tensioning system. I wasn’t able to try it immediately, but I’m using it on this warp.
Oh. My. God. It is such a beautifully simple concept, so wonderful to weave with, so much easier on me, my warp, and probably my loom. It basically replaces the brake on your loom during weaving, although you still use the brake during beaming, threading, & tie on. I won’t explain exactly how to do it here — Kati’s book does it beautifully, plus she’s great at responding to email questions.
I’m using a broom handle I had hanging around with a total of about 22.5 pounds on it, with counterweights of only 1.25 pounds on each end. This is on a warp of 760 ends of 8/2 cotton, 31″ wide, 18 yards long. I admit it would have been easier to set up initially with another pair of hands, but it obviously wasn’t impossible to do alone. Although this is my first use of the live weight tensioning system, I am positive I’ll be using it in the future – maybe for every warp on the Macomber. So thanks to Kati for the concept & help, and Laura Fry to pointing me to her. Other weavers are a constant source of inspiration, instruction, and support.
[…] bit ago I told you I’ve started using a live weight system for my Macomber. I really do like it. A lot. But the roll of heavy paper I’ve used for […]
Hi Peg. I’m still tweaking the system but once I’ve done that I think I’m going to love it. 🙂
Cheers
Laura
Yeah, Laura, I have a little issue with my paper roll. Next time I’m in town I’m going to find some bamboo blinds, hopefully at the thrift store, and try that, but I have to say that I’m already loving it. I KNOW it’s more efficient, and consistent, than the brake release/tighten.
I read about this method, but have yet to try it. I’ll keep watch on your progress.
It’s very cool, Perry. I really like it, at least for this warp. Stay tuned….
peg, your inbox full..lol..
Sorry, Hani. It must have been a temporary glitch, ‘cuz it’s working now. I also did some mailbox cleanup, just to be sure. 🙂
Well, I’m glad you found a method that makes life easier for you!!
I’m loving the colors in your current project — so dramatic!!
Awe, thanks Peg. I’m so happy that you have the live-weight system working so well for you, and thanks you so much for the endorsement. Welcome to the world of ‘lazy weavers’. Kati