What Are Different Weaving Techniques?

Weaving natural and synthetic elements involves interconnecting warps (vertical materials) and wefts (horizontal materials). Some weaving techniques combine sewing with weaving. Natural products can be limited because of the availability of raw materials. Pesticide use on raw materials can also be a concern. Weaving techniques have been carried on for generations and added to with color, fabric, form and the weaver's own creativity and imagination.

Coiling

Spiral rounds build upon one another and attach to one another with the coiling technique.

Twining

Twining involves using whole plant shoots around which up to four or more weft elements are woven. This technique often involves varied decorative adaptations by the weaver.

Wicker

A warp of fibers is used as a base for weaving weft materials in an under/over fashion to produce a wicker basket. Wicker baskets and plaques are typically found in the American Southwest.

Plaiting

When plaiting, two textures are woven at right angles to one another and over and under each other. Yucca-ring baskets from the Southwest often utilize this weaving technique.

Inkle

Inkle weaving involves using a loom and offers both table and floor model types of looms. Inkle weaving is usually utilized for making belts and trim. It is known as a warp face type of weave.

Finger

Finger weaving uses yarn and is also known as finger knitting. The yarn is wrapped around each individual finger producing a chain that is gradually added to.

References

• The Language of Native American Baskets