block 'n tackle knitting

My sweetie made me the most thoughtful present: one that I'd been meaning to make for myself for over a year, now. So I can start the year out by learning some new techniques! First on the list is tapestry weaving, using simple crochet cotton as the warp and some thicker cotton as the weft. I'm finding I really enjoy the texture and look of the slightly uneven weave, and I'm also really happy I learned how to make that  weaver's knot!  I'm using a plastic ruler as a heddle and a darning needle to weave with. Look at the pretty texture of the different cotton threads!

Last week a few new friends joined my Facebook page and liked and commented on some of my older posts. One of them specifically asked to learn how I'd woven this sampler: I told her I'd be happy to show her (though I'm only a beginner myself) and if she brought a piece of cardboard, nothing could be easier. To prove it, here's a pic of the loom I made (and recycled afterwards): So all you need to make your own is a flat piece of cardboard as long and wide as you want your piece to be (Refrigerator box kicking around? Hello, area rug!) along with some masking tape to reinforce the edges, a pair of scissors to cut notches in the top and bottom to wind the horizontal warp yarn or string, and some yarn to weave with. Have fun!

This was fun, and easy!

I tried something new, making my own cardboard loom -- fun!