Weaving wool yarn involves interlacing it through a set of stationary threads, creating fabric. The fundamental action is passing the yarn back and forth in a specific pattern.
The Basic Weaving Action
The core movement when weaving yarn, such as wool, is passing the yarn alternately under and over the existing threads. This creates the interwoven structure of the fabric.
A common pattern involves the following sequence for each pass of the yarn:
- Under: Pass the wool yarn beneath a thread.
- Over: Pass the wool yarn over the next thread.
- Under: Pass the wool yarn beneath the following thread.
- Over: Continue this "under over under over" pattern across the width of your weaving.
This repeated motion, row after row, builds the woven textile.
Important Tip: Managing Tension
When weaving with wool yarn, paying attention to how tightly you pull the yarn is crucial. According to weaving guidance, "when you weave you don't want to pull too tight because if you do your whole weave will come in like this." Pulling the yarn too tightly will cause the edges of your weaving to narrow significantly, distorting the shape of your piece. Aim for a consistent, relaxed tension that allows the yarn to lie naturally without pulling the sides inward.
By following the basic "under over" sequence and carefully managing your yarn tension, you can effectively weave wool yarn.
