Embroidering with the Loom: Creative Combinations of Weaving and Stitchery

The close relationship between weaving and needlework encourages more and more fiber workers to combine these two techniques. 'Embroidering with the Loom' integrates many weaving and needlework techniques to achieve unique effects, as well as to save time and effort. The book divides these techniques into three categories: embroidery over specially woven background fabrics, embroidery over empty warp or weft threads, and embroidery stitches partially produced by means of the loom. The last category makes use of the mechanical action of the loom to speed up some of the repetitive aspects of counted-thread embroidery. An acquaintance with weaving, without prior experience with embroidery, fulfills all the background requirements for using the techniques described. A novice handweaver familiar with the four-harness loom can carry out every operation discussed in the book. Anyone who has been introduced to a simple frame loom can work almost half of the techniques, including all those that employ embroidery stitches over empty warp threads. Embroiderers with no prior experience in weaving may well be inspired to acquire the working knowledge necessary to try for themselves. Although the techniques involved are quite simple, the interaction of weaving and embroidery can produce seemingly complex results. Certain effects are impossible to execute with either technique alone.Photographs and diagram of several dozen embroidery stitches accompany weaving drafts and directions. Several comprehensive summary outlines, a large glossary and an extensive index make the book readily adaptable as a reference or text.