Ashford Inkle Loom
WARP LENGTH: 3.4m / 134”
WIDTH: 75mm / 3”
INKLE BANDS
These colourful braids are very strong and have many uses. They make belts, ties, guitar straps, braiding
for homespun’s and trims for joining pieces of weaving.
INKLES
These have a dominant warp face, ie the long-way threads show. The warp is packed so close that the weft
cross-way thread, is not visible.
THE SHED
The shed is obtained by the use of leashes. A thread NOT going through a leash is called “open” thread.
Shed 1
Is made by lifting all the open threads
Shed 2
Is made by pushing down on all the open threads
Changed sheds: When doing this, rhythm is important. Here is an easy way to develop it. When weaving
from left to right, push down the open threads with the right hand. When weaving from the right to left, lift
the open threads with either left or right hand.
THREADS TO USE
Use strong, smooth and colourful threads. Mercerised cotton is good. Most wool is suitable but avoid wool
that is soft or hairy (these tend to cling to each other and make it difficult to obtain a clean open shed).
Textured and metallic threads, silk and nylon add variety. Be experimental but make sure all threads have
about the same amount of elasticity, otherwise the surface will be uneven.
WIDTH OF WARP
Because the weft thread is pulled tight, the Inkle will be reduced to about half the original width of warp.
However, if you want to increase or decrease the width at any stage, this is done by the amount of tension
on the weft thread.
SHUTTLE
A Belt Shuttle with a sharp edge for beating is included in the kit.
TENSION BLOCK
This block is used to keep the warp under tension when weaving. When moving the weaving around the
loom, loosen the block to release the tension. Use two hands to advance the warp. When using a full
length warp take care to move the weaving little by little. Do not pull too tight! You will break the pegs!
FINISHING THE FRINGE
The last weft thread may be darned in, leaving a fringe. Warp ends may be tied in small overhead knots.
Using both hands, twist the bundles of threads to the right, between thumb and finger, then warp these
twisted threads together in opposite direction.
FINISHING THE WOOD
The kiln dried silver beech timber should be first sanded smooth and then sealed
before assembly. This protects it from climatic changes and staining and enhances
its character and beauty. Our natural Ashford Wax Finish Kit is ideal for this
purpose and is available from your local Ashford dealer.
