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Portrait of Emily Werner
by: Emily Werner

New Book: Easy Weaving with Supplemental Warps

supplemental-warps

Supplemental warps? What are those?

I had never heard of supplemental warps before, but after reading Deb Essen’s new book, Easy Weaving with Supplemental Warp , I am itching to try out this new technique!

 

Easy Weaving with Supplemental Warp   Easy Weaving with Supplemental Warp

You may be familiar with supplemental weft patterns such as overshot, in which a “pattern” weft alternates with a “background” weft to weave a pattern over a background of plain fabric. These types of weaves typically require two shuttles and the pattern runs horizontally from selvedge to selvedge. However, by switching the threading and the treadling, a process called “turning the draft,” and adding a supplemental warp, you can weave a pattern which runs lengthwise along the fabric. Best of all, the fabric can now be woven with just one shuttle! You can use this method to create beautiful variations on overshot or monk’s belt, and even three-dimensional fabrics like velvet, terrycloth, and pique.

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Deb provides a thorough “how-to” on the process and possibilities of turning drafts and creating supplemental warp weaves in the first several chapters, and continues with eight projects to lay the groundwork for further exploration of the technique. My personal favorite is the Turned Overshot Scarf project. I am continually fascinated by the complexity of overshot patterns and never dreamed it was possible to weave overshot vertically, and with one shuttle. Deb’s simple method includes how to beam your supplemental warp on your regular floor loom, without additional expensive or specialized equipment!

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Deb learned about supplemental warps while studying to complete the Handweavers Guild of America Certificate of Excellence in Handweaving, Level One. Her inspiration for writing this book was a result of hours of research through old books, magazines, and internet searches and a desire to help future weavers by putting all that information and personal experience in one place. This book is geared towards more experienced weavers, or those who are not afraid of diving further into the mechanics of weave structure.

Deb’s book is a wonderful addition to any weaver’s library! My mind is churning with ideas… now, where is my warping board?

Related items of interest: • Weaving Books