How to String an Antique Rug Loom

Looms hold the strings that are woven into rugs.

Handmade rugs are durable but time consuming. For those desiring a long-term project, they provide hours of relaxing weaving at the seat of your very own antique rug loom. When working with this antique piece of machinery, do not be afraid to operate it. Antique rug looms were built to withstand daily use. The first step to weaving your new rug is covering the loom in string.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn
• Ruler

Instructions

1. Lock the loom's warps into position so that they cannot move while you are winding the yarn.

2. Begin winding the yarn over the warps in a figure-8 pattern. Place the center of the figure 8 between the loom's dowel sticks to preserve the overall shape.

3. Wind the yard very close together, ideally with at least 12 strands per inch. Use a ruler to help you measure the exact amount.

4. Tie off the last rotation by making a slip knot on the warp.

References

• WeaveZine: Backstrap Basics
• Azerbaijan Rugs: Weaving and Finishing Steps