Do you fancy trying a new pattern?
I've been exploring different weave patterns lately beyond a simple plain darn that is perfectly suited to a Speedweve. I started off with something a little simple and was blown away with the finished result - so much so I just had to share it with you all!
Under 2, Over 2
The basis of this pattern is created in the weft (horizontal lines). Remember weft sounds like left so it refers to the lines of thread running left to right, and the vertical (up/down) threads are known as the warp threads. To create this pattern you simply weave over and then under two threads at a time which magically creates diagonal lines.
First Steps
This pattern can be created with or without a Speedweve loom; however using a Speedweve tends to give a neater finished darn.
Begin by inserting your warp threads. It's easier (but not essential) if you can add an even number of warp threads in multiples of 4 when it comes to following the pattern i.e. 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28 and so on. And if you use just one colour for your warp threads then it makes the overall effect much more striking, but feel free to experiment.
Once you're done you're ready to start creating the twill pattern within the weft threads.
Weft Threads
This pattern is made up of 4 rows which are then repeated until you've covered the area you need to repair or reached the bottom of the Speedweve hooks.
For those of you who are confident reading weaving patterns then the above diagram should be straightforward. I've made it available as a free PDF download (see the link at the bottom of this post) which you use as an electronic version or print out if you would prefer.
For those of you who are thinking "Where on earth do I start?!" then don't panic, I've got it covered- just scroll down to the next image!!
All you need to do is simply follow these written instructions and return to the first line after you've completed 4 rows. You can stop at any point - you don't have you finish a row of 4 if you run out of space.
If you do forget what point you've got to in the pattern it's easy to work it out, all you need to do is count the number of rows you have from the bottom up and then divide it by 4.
Alternatively, look at the pattern you created on your last row and compare it to the written instructions to work out your next row.
Tips!
It's much easier if you stick to a square or rectangle shape for your darn rather than a circle or anything else more fancy - any shape with uneven sides will mean you will need to adjust the point at which you start the pattern.
If you want to change the colour of the weft threads then perhaps do so after every 4 or 8 rows.
If you're using a Speedweve I would recommend you keep the hooks in the upright position as opposed to sliding them left or right after each row. By keeping the hooks in the upright position it makes it easier to weave over and under individual threads.
At the beginning the pattern is not too obvious but usually by the time you've completed the first 8 rows the pattern becomes much more apparent.
Try to choose two or more contrasting colours if you want to create a 'Zinger' - a weave with impact!!
Click here if you'd like to watch a full tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXSmEOxNIr0&t=560s
Click here for a free PDF pattern download:
Check out my Instagram page for lots more inspiration:
Comments