How to Build a Simple Portable Weaving Loom
Anyone with an old, wooden picture frame in their home's attic can turn it into a simple weaving loom. Turning old picture frames into smaller, portable looms is also a wonderful way to introduce children to the art of weaving, without being forced to invest in an expensive loom. You can also turn cardboard into a homemade shuttle and use a wide tooth comb as a weaving reed, according to the Unplug Your Kids website. These looms can be made from picture frames as small as 8 by 10 inches, making them easily portable for weaving on the go.
Things You'll Need
- Wooden picture frame, 8 by 10 inches or larger
- Sandpaper
- Ruler
- Black marker
- Hammer
- Standard nails
- Cardboard scrap
- Scissors
- Wide tooth comb
- Yarn
Instructions
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1
Remove the glass and backing from a wooden picture frame. If using an old frame or one with rough edges, sand down the sides and edges with sandpaper to avoid getting splinters.
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2
Measure ½ half inch from the outside edge on the top piece of the frame. Mark this spot with a black marker. Continue marking dots along the top piece every ½ inch, stopping ½ inch from the opposite side. Repeat this step with the bottom edge of the frame.
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3
Hammer a nail into each of the holes you have previously marked on the top and the bottom of the frame. Try to keep your nails straight and approximately the same height. Leave nails sticking out from the wood about 1 inch in length.
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4
Cut 3 inch wide strips from a piece of cardboard. Cut the ends of the cardboard so the ends are rounded. In the middle of each end cut out a groove that will hold your yarn. This forms a makeshift shuttle, perfect for helping teach students about weaving without investing in expensive supplies. Wrap yarn lengthwise around the shuttle.
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Tips & Warnings
Keeping nails the same height will help keep your weaving project even when you begin to weave. Use a wide tooth comb as an inexpensive reed when weaving. Make a separate cardboard shuttle for each color of yarn that will be used in the weaving project.
References
- Photo Credit weave image by MichaelJordan from Fotolia.com
