What Is a Loom Used For?
Looms have been around for centuries and have had quite the hand in weaving everything from tapestries to clothing. The first power loom was created by Edmund Cartwright in 1785. However, it was the invention of the flying shuttle loom by John Kay that sparked the commercial loom industry. While much of what we purchase today is made in a factory by machines, there are still a wide variety of looms on the market for home use, with each being used for a different weave type.
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Function
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A loom is a machine that is used to weave thread.The function of any loom type is to hold the wrap threads under tension to make the interweaving of the weft threads viable.
Counterbalance
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The counterbalance shed loom allows the person using it to open a small or large shed. This is done by lightly touching or firmly pressing the treadles. This loom is used to help create a tighter and more secure weave.
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Jack
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This is a popular loom in the United States. It was created in the 20th century, and it is commonly used for table and small folding looms. This loom is often used for beginners because it is inexpensive and easy to use.
Countermarch
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The countermarch loom is commonly used in European countries. It is similar to a counterbalance loom as it is quiet and can create a light treadling with tight tension. This loom is used to create a wider shed.
Table
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Table looms are popular and used because they are small, portable and inexpensive. The majority of table looms are also jack looms. However, because there are no treadles in table looms, the weaving will be slower.
Draw
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The draw loom is a two harness loom with the first harness having only four to six shafts to weave the ground weave. This means that only four, five or six treadles will be needed. The draw loom is used for more complicated designs and has to be worked by two people.
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Resources
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