Frame loom weaving: build a loom from a picture frame and weave a wall hanging

You don't need a loom to weave. A sturdy picture frame or a piece of board with nails will do, and it will teach you every basic technique.

Make the loom

Take a wooden frame at least 30 x 40cm. Hammer small nails every 1cm along the top and bottom edges, staggered slightly so they don't split the wood.

Warp it

Tie strong cotton warp thread to the first nail, run it down to the opposite nail, up to the next, and so on. Aim for firm and even, like a guitar string that gives slightly. Tie off.

The techniques

• Plain weave (tabby): over one warp, under the next. Alternate each row. Beat down gently with a fork or comb. Leave a slight arc ("bubble") in each row so the edges don't pull in.
• Soumak: wrap the weft around each warp thread as you go; it looks like a braid or a row of knitting.
• Rya knots: cut bundles of yarn, drape over two warps and pull the ends up between them. Instant fringe.
• Colour blocks: change weft colours by tucking ends to the back. Shapes can be diagonal by moving one warp per row.

Finishing

Cut the warp off the bottom nails in pairs and knot them. Slide the top loops off and thread a dowel or driftwood branch through. Weave the loose weft tails into the back.

Design ideas

• Rya fringe at the bottom, plain weave stripes above, a roving cloud at the top.
• A colour gradient in tabby using scraps.
• Texture study: alternate fluffy roving and thin cotton.

Post yours with the branch it hangs from.

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