Scott & Deb's Place

Outline of Steps in Tablet Weaving

In preparing for a class on tablet weaving I quickly realized that this simple craft isn't quite so simple. Each step of the process involves a different set of skills and tools. The following is an overview of the process from start to finish. I hope this article will serve as a useful starting point for those teaching a class or anyone wanting to try tablet weaving on their own.

Acquire a Loom/Cards

Before you can weave you need a loom and cards. There are three options here: borrow them, buy them, or make them.

Decide on a Design

This is the artistic part of weaving. The design should be sketched out in rough, preferably with colored pens or pencils that approximate the thread you will be using.

Draft the Design

This is the process of converting the design to a weaving draft. This can be the hardest part of the process. As you get experience in weaving and learn how different techniques affect the weaving you will get better at drafting. Consulting another weaver at this step may help, as they may be able to assist with the draft or teach you a new technique that allows you to get the design you want.

Warp the Loom

This is the longest part of the process. This involves cutting all the threads to length and setting up the cards according to the draft you've made.

Weaving

Once the loom is warped the next step is the actual weaving. This is the fun part since you get to actually see the results of all your planning above.

Finish the Ends

The ends of the weaving need some sort of finishing to keep the weaving from coming undone. There are many techniques that you can use to fancy up the ends of your weaving.