The Magic of Handweaving: The Basics and Beyond

by Sigrid Piroch

Beautiful works of fabric art are easily achieved using the magical hand weaving techniques presented in this exciting new book?the second in the Tradition in the Making series. Author Sigrid Piroch expertly guides readers through everything they need to know about the art of hand weaving, including the history and heritage of this timeless art, how looms work, what tools and equipment to use, the basics of good technique, how to plan projects, analyzing cloth, reading and drawing patterns, and designing fabric for practical and art purposes. She then guides the weaver step-by-step through more than 10 gorgeous projects, including mug rugs, a scarf, napkins, pillows, towels, and clothing. This book also features insightful and inspiring works of art from several hand weaving textile artists from around the world, as well as invaluable resource listings. Sigrid Piroch has been weaving for more than 20 years and has taught classes and seminars throughout North America. ? All-in-one reference guide for weavers of all skill levels ? Clear, concise, step-by-step instructions and 300 illustrations and color photographs to guide weavers ? More than 10 gorgeous projects, including home d?cor and wearables

144 pages, Paperback

First published April 7, 2003

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was very helpful for my foray into weaving with a 4 shaft table loom. It was given by an expert weaver as a way to help me get started (a thank you to her!). Many parts of this book were extremely helpful. I would have appreciated a glossary at the back as I had to skim a few times to find the meanings of certain words. I also had to find YT videos to supplement certain parts as I didn't know how to use warping pegs rather than a warping board. This is a great reference book, and she must have had people like me read it through to ensure that she didn't leave out critical things that would have been obvious to someone with her expertise. This was made a long time ago, but still relevant for today in the weaving world.
Also, I would have liked some suggestions for general yarn thicknesses for different products alongside a sett suggestion (You want to weave some table linen? Suggestion: use 3/2 yarn for warp and weft at a set of 12 ...or whatever it should be). Perhaps that's actually more complicated than I know? Still so new...

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Weaving

Great book for learning to use your weaving loom. Floor looms or table top variety looms are all covered in this wonderful book. Lots of photos an descriptions of yarns to use on your project.

[penny shima glanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Piroch's book helps to capture the magic of handweaving and shape it into understanding for the reader to grow and comprehend basics not just of the real looms of various shaft configuration but also the small ones that hold very powerful magic in their own right.

The many photos, detailed drawings, and small snippets of text on weaving around the world help this book be an informative reference for all, even those who are not yet handweaving.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book was so thorough! It introduces you to all the terminology and basics you need to know about weaving and looms, and then has several projects so you can put the knowledge to use. It is so packed full of information that you really can't absorb it all by reading it straight through. In addition to being a thorough introduction, it's a great reference to keep on hand. I'll probably be buying a copy for my home library.

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is full of good information, but overall it doesn't feel very accessible. It feels like a lot of work to make my way through this book. The readability pales in comparison to other weaving books I've read.

[Jennifer Medina]

I don't think this is the most comprehensive book for a new or new-ish weaver, but the photography is lovely and the gamp section is excellent.

[Rin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very, very basic book. Would probably be more helpful to someone who'd never seen a loom before.