After my preparations for the craft fair, I sort of lost interest in crafting for a bit, possibly from having cranked out so many cards and things in such a short time. I decided not to push it initially, though eventually I thought I’d jumpstart things with a cross-stitch project. Unfortunately, that didn’t get too far.
I felt like I wanted to work with similar materials, but on a larger scale, possibly with yarn. I remembered the vintage “Weave-It” loom that I bought a few months ago, so I dug that out and started reading up on how to use it.
I messed up my first two squares, but then I figured out what I’d done wrong and have the hang of it now. It’s not too hard to do, especially since there’s only one long strand to wind around, rather than having several threads going each way. I’ve got a small pile of woven squares now, each just under 4 inches on each side. I’m not entirely sure what I’ll do with them yet, but you can sew them together to make larger pieces. On their own, they’re about the size of a nice coaster, so there’s one idea.
The weaving itself is a nice process, without too much thought required. The fun part though is choosing the yarn and seeing how it’ll turn out. The variegated ones are best, since the changing colors create nice combinations when you’re done, but the textured yarns are nice to try as well, since I’m still learning what kinds work best.
Of course, the yarns I had to begin with weren’t that varied, so I’ve been doing a bit of shopping at a few local yarns stores. I’d heard about a few of them before, but hadn’t ever been in a single one, seeing that I don’t really knit or crochet or anything. It’s really great to see what they have, especially compared to what I’m used to seeing at the chain craft stores. The local yarn shops may carry more expensive yarns, but they’re definitely a lot higher quality, so it’s usually worth it. I’m even thinking about trying to learn how to knit and/or crochet again, but no promises.
For what it’s worth, the loom I’m using is called a “Weave-It” and I happened across it in a local crafters’ mall, sitting among some older craft supplies. They’re no longer manufactured by the company that created them, but you can find some older ones on eBay. Another company is actually making a new version called Weavette (update from 08/23/2009, the company is no longer in business), and there was a feature about them in Martha Stewart Magazine a few months ago. They’re definitely not like the hardcore looms you think of when you talk about weaving, but it’s not a bad place to start.
If you manage to get one of these looms, I’d highly recommend the web site eLoomaNation, which has full instructions, tips and tricks, and scans of old project booklets. They also have a blog with completed projects and how-to’s.
Alicia P. said
I bought my niece a loom for Christmas and then had to get another just for . . . me. Can’t wait to try it!
Oh, and tag — you’re it!
Tamara Baker said
Don’t know what URI is.
Have 2 Weave-its that are 4″x4″, they’re probably made of what’s called Bakelite. Bought them in a Woolworths store in Coral Gables, Florida in about 1973. Been using them on regular basis since 1987; the one is a reserve/ a backup. Have made about 35 Afghans of different sizes. 5×7 squares for a baby carriage & 9 or 10×16 or 19 for adults. I crochet the squares together to get a flat seam.
I live in Hammerfest, Norway, the northernmost city in the world. The local Husflidenlag (Knitters Club/Needlework Club) has been asking me for years where they can buy Weave-its looms. They’re looking to buy 10-12 Weave-it looms first time around. I’ve not known where they could be bought until a few days ago when I went looking for them, again, on the Internet. Have at the same time found the Buxton Brook company & will be giving Husflidenlag their address.
Am myself looking to buy & try out the 2″x4″ & 4″x6″ Weave-it looms.
Roene Cammack said
I am looking for instructions for using Weave-it looms. My 98 year-old aunt wants to start using hers again. Any ideas about where I can find directions? Roene
Debbie said
A good place to start when looking for instructions is Eloomanation.
Betty Parkhurst said
I am looking for a 5 or 6 inch steel needle for my weave it loom. I have misplaced mine/
Karen said
I’ve just started using a 4″ Weave It loom and would like to know how to join a 2nd strand in a different color or different texture. Do you knot it, or what? Thanks!
LOIS THOMPSON said
I would like to purchase a small a weaving loom. Like a 4 inch square.
Where would I find one. Don’t care for E-Bay
CLY said
Found my original weave-it in the box with needle and an original pamphlet which explains how to finish and assemble weave it squares. Also have an Original Loomette Handbook. Alas neither of these explain how to thread the loom to begin.
THe Eloomanation site has lots of projects but doesn’t seem to have basic “how to get started” instructions. I used it a lot 40 years ago but definitely can’t remember how to get started. Can anyone explain or recommend where to get those basic directions.
Thanks.
cindi steiner said
I had a weave-it years ago, but with my husband being an officer in the Navy we had many moves and to date I cannot find mine I had 2 different sizes I believe one was a 6′ and the other a 4′. I have found sites for how to make one but I would love to have one of the originals.
If you can be of any help please e-mail me back
Thank you for your time in advance.
cindi steiner