Handwoven Table Linens

27 Fabulous Projects from a Master Weaver

By (author) Tom Knisely

Paperback - £18.99

Publication date:

30 June 2017

Length of book:

96 pages

Publisher

Stackpole Books

ISBN-13: 9780811716178

Master weaver Tom Knisely presents patterns and ideas to spruce up your table with new weaves

Tom Knisely, author of bestseller Rag Rug Weaving and Handwoven Baby Blankets, has now turned his attention to one of the most popular categories of weaving: table linens. Placemats, runners, tablecloths, and napkins play a central role in creating the look of a dining room or kitchen table, and this book gives you the tools needed to realize your vision for these special items.
Tom has found inspiration from things as varied as china patterns, a classic Spode Christmas tree, and traditional weaving patterns such as Shadow Weave, Wheel of Fortune, and Star of Bethlehem. For each pattern, he outlines the materials you need, how to set up your loom, and the pattern to weave. Add your own dash of inspiration if you choose different colors, and make each piece your own.
The 27 patterns include simple weaves worked on 2- and 4-harness looms, as well as more complex weaves requiring more harnesses. Because Tom is at heart a teacher, he also chose each project with the thought that it should add to your weaving repertoire in some way. The techniques you learn as you work on the projects in this book are things that you can adapt and use down the road in future weaving.
For weavers, Handwoven Table Linens is like a sampler of different weave structures. Twenty-seven projects in 4- and 8-shafts encompass techniques such as summer and winter, false satin, overshot, shadow weave, canvas weave and Quigley. For intermediate and experienced weavers who prefer to learn by doing, they provide a simple way to try new things.
Anyone weaving for a holiday table will like the Finnish Trees place mats, with their subtle, abstract pine border. Other projects include table runners, napkins, a tablecloth, and mug rugs–everything you need to dress a bare table. Tom points out that, by choosing colors and patterns that complement the dishes on the table, you can create one-of-a-kind, personalized textiles that are exactly right for the people on your gift-giving list!
Each project lists the warp and weft yarns, sett, total number of ends, and width. The weaving instructions are provided in the threading, tie-up and treadling charts. (Beginners should be aware that this book does not include warping instructions or information for planning and making calculations for warp length.)
As always, Kathleen Eckhaus really delivers on the photographs. Clear, beautifully staged project photos include at least one close-up of each piece, showing both front and back when relevant. Additional photos, such as the one found on the title page, create an inviting and homey atmosphere in which to peruse this book.