Card Weaving Directions

Instead of a loom, use cards to weave intricate patterns

Card weaving is an easy way to replicate the patterns seen on many Native American wool products. Instead of using a loom, you simply thread yarn through four cards and turn the cards to weave the threads together.

Things You'll Need

• Pack of old playing cards
• Scissors
• Hole punch
• Black marker
• Yarn of different colors
• Dowel
• Belt

Instructions

Setting Up the Cards

1. Set up 10 cards. Take cards from the deck two at a time. Lay one card on top of the other so that they form a cross. Cut off the four ends of the cross to make the cards square. Repeat this process until all 10 of your cards are square.

2. Punch a hole in each corner of each card with a hole punch.

3. Label the four corners of the cards "A" to "D," making sure to label each card the same way. You are now ready to create the warp by threading the cards.

Threading the Cards

1. Find a simple pattern in a book or online. The pattern will tell you what thread colors to use on each card and whether to thread the card front to back.

2. Thread strands of yarn through each card according to the pattern.

3. Tie a string around the cards so that they don't move.

4. Tie the ends of the yarn together. Put the back ends on a doorknob or a tree.

5. Tie the front end of the cards to a dowel. Attach the dowel to your belt to make a loom out of the cards.

Weaving

1. Get a shuttle made out of cardboard or wood to help you weave.

2. Hold the cards so that the labeled side is facing you. Untie the string around the middle of the cards.

3. Put the shuttle through the yarn. Leave some yarn hanging out of the end of the shuttle.

4. Turn the cards a quarter turn clockwise. Separate the yarn with your fingers, and push the shuttle back through it. Repeat three times, then repeat four times in the opposite direction (turning the cards counterclockwise).

5. As you work, you form a braid between the cards. When your braid is as long as you want it to be, cut it free. Weave the loose threads into the braid.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use up to four colors, but it is best to start with two colors until you get the hang of card weaving.

References

• Spinning Down Under: An Introduction to Card Weaving
• The Loomy Bin: What Is Card Weaving?