Weaving (1969)

[Music] Weaving is a process of making fabrics by interlocking two sets of threads or [Music] fibers. The long stretch threads are called the warp. The interlocking threads make up the weft. [Music] Stretching the warp threads in this manner makes what is called a backstrap loom. This is the weft yarn which will be interwoven. [Music] Here, lengths of soda straws are being put on each of the warp [Music] threads. This prevents the warp threads from being drawn too close together during the weaving process. Heat. Heat. [Music] Tying the ends of the warp threads holds the weft in place. [Music] In this backstrap loom, the warp threads are tied at each end to a wooden [Music] rod. This makes it possible to weave a wider fabric. [Music] Heavy cardboard makes another kind of simple loom. [Music] To make a firm, even fabric, the weft threads must be brushed tightly into place. This box loom has a row of nails at each end around which the warp is wrapped. [Music] A smooth stick separates the warp threads so that the weft can be passed through more easily. [Music] The green fringe is made by tying short lengths of yarn to the warp. [Music] Hey, [Music] Wrapping sections of the warp gives the variety of an Open area. [Music] The wooden hedle is another device for separating the warp threads. [Music] A hedle can be made with four strips of wood and a number of tongue depressors. [Music] Each tongue depressor has a hole drilled in its center. [Music] Yarns can be interwoven in a variety of patterns. This simple under and over pattern is called the tabby weave. Over two and under two makes a basket weave. The twill weave gives a diagonal pattern. Using different patterns is one way to achieve variety in weaving. [Music] But the greatest excitement in weaving comes from combining different materials. [Music] Even with the simple looms that have been shown here, you can find many new ways to combine the patterns and the materials of weaving. [Music]