I found that the hokett loom on which I planned to work still had work on it. So I looked around for another small loom. Since the books will be 4"x2.5", and I will need to accommodate two of them on a single warp, I realized that my bead loom will do fine.
Then I foozled around a bit deciding on a warp thread. Ended up with a cotton one, which I dyed a while back probably with diluted black walnut. The idea is to make it less glaring white so it vanishes better under the weft.
Then I happily got into it. This small lightweight loom is easy on your hands, very maneuverable, and will bend slightly if you need to slide a finger behind the work to secure an end. It's as simple as can be.
So I just picked any newly spun yarn and started needleweaving.
Just used a big blunt yarn needle.
Here you have two covers which will go to different books. The plan is for a series. So I'll weave a few, varying the colors and designs and later see which ones are happy together. I'm already mixing colors as I spin, so part of the design is accounted for.
I'll separate them by cutting the warp threads between them, then weaving back the ends into the weft. Then do top and bottom similarly. Then steam and rest them. Then warp up for the next two.
At that point,I when I've got the collection done, I'll decide if I need to make a new post (batch) of paper to size, or if I can use some of my current stock, torn to size. No need to know that yet.
As I expect you know, you don't cut handmade paper. You can wet a line then tear on it where the fibers are weaker. Or use a straightedge to secure then tear.
And later I'll decide what sort of stitching I'll do to bind the books.
Happy spinner/weaver/stitcher/bookie.
This sounds like fun.
ReplyDeleteIt is I love to create the materials then create the art. Nose to tail!
ReplyDeleteI found my fingers needle weaving along with you.
ReplyDeleteHeh! Maybe you'll do a bit yourself. It's really engrossing, specially when you spin your yarn
ReplyDeleteLooks like you're having a grand time! I was thinking how these would look mounted as little miniature pictures...good, I think.
ReplyDeleteNoted. The miniature tapestry, The Red Tower,that the county bought last year for its permanent collection was in this size range, mounted on linen and framed. That one was executed in embroidery floss, though.
ReplyDeleteWhat fun! I look forward to seeing your books - and any part of the process you share with us.
ReplyDeleteSince I moved into fiberarts it's much easier to show process. So I like to do it. When I was mainly drawing and printmaking, it wasn't possible. I could show results, but the process was either lightning fast, or couldn't be interrupted for picture taking.
ReplyDeleteSo it's e bonus that now I can show the step by step.