How to Connect Colors in a Weaving

Complex weavings are known as tapestries.

Connecting colors in a weaving is a basic technique in forming patterns or when the ball of yarn runs out. According to Susan C. Wylly or Georgia College and State University, weaving was one of man's earliest crafts that interlaces fibers to form textiles, baskets, shelters and netting. Most weavings are crafted on a loom, which holds the entire warp, which are the vertical yarns that are the base of the weaving. Weavers add horizontal weft yarn to form the craft and different colors and textures can be added and connected.

Things You'll Need

• Loom
• Variety of yarns
• Scissors
• Masking tape

Instructions

1. Weave your yarn through over and under your warp yarn on your loom. Continue using this color until you want to change or connect yarn colors.

2. Connect the same or new color of yarn by completing one last row. Cut the yarn off its ball by leaving a 6-inch tail.

3. Tape the tail end of the yarn on the side of the loom with masking tape, for easy removal. Start the next row with the new ball of yarn of the same or new color, leaving a 6-inch tail on one end. Tape it down as well.

4. Knot your old yarn in the middle of the weaving if you want to connect a color inside the weaving rather than finishing a row. Knot the new yarn to the same warp yarn you just knotted with the old yarn. Leave a 2-inch tail on each knot. Continue weaving.

5. Switch colors in your weaving by finishing a row and setting the ball of yarn to one side. Start a new color and leave a 6-inch tail at one side of the loom. Tape it down and continue weaving the new yarn over and under the warp yarn.

6. Reuse the same ball of yarn that you set aside earlier further down the weaving. Weave it as your would normally. Once you finish with that color, cut it off the yarn ball. Leave a 6-inch tail.

Tips & Warnings

• Every 10 rows or so, push up the weaving to tighten it, but do not over tighten or the weaving becomes misshapen.

• Finish the side edges of your weaving by threading the yarn tails under the edge of the weaving with a needle.

References

• Georgia College & State University; The Art and History of Weaving; Susan C. Wylly, 1998, 1998
• "Craft"; The Basics of Weaving; Jane Patrick, August 2008
• Craft Stylish; How to Weave on a Cardboard Loom; Diane Gilleland, June 2008
• The Loom Room: Knitting Loom Instructions