How to Build a Loom

Weaving, traditionally known as the women's craft, has been around since ancient times. Intricate patterns were made by women on a loom, producing beautiful fabrics, rugs, blankets and other items. Silks and linens were woven to create the finest clothing. Before the industrial revolution, weaving was performed soley by use of the loom. Today, the textile business has moved to a more modernized form of weaving. A more mechanical or robotic weaving has taken the place of the old handcrafting. Although the mass market has gone more high tech, there are still individuals who favor the care of handcrafting. The patterns made by threads passing under and over each other, by hand on a loom, are highly attractive to those with a personal interest in weaving. If you would like to give weaving a try, you can begin by making your own loom. The process is moderately easy, and can be made with little material. The steps below will show you how to build your own weaving loom out of a cardboard box.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A cardboard box
• Threads, yarn, fabric or other types of weaving material
• Utility knife
• Ruler
• Pencil

1. Choose a box that will fit the size of the weaving project that you intend to make. The box can be as small or as large as you would like.

2. Remove the flaps from the box with a utility knife.

3. Mark off one quarter inch sections, with your ruler and pencil around the entire top of the box.

4. Cut slots in your box along each of the quarter inch marks.

5. Wrap your weaving string from one side of the box to the other, using each slot to hold the string. The other two sides will be used for your under, over weaving.