Loom
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A device for weaving that contains a means of lifting selected warp yarns above other warp yarns, forming a space called a shed through which the weft is passed. Such devices cannot function unless the warp is under tension, so looms also include a means for stretching the warps.
Loom Bars
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The end bars of a loom around which the warp yarns pass or to which the warp ends are bound.
Mordant
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A substance (frequently a metallic oxide) that helps create a chemical bond between dye and the fiber in the dyeing process.
Oblique Interlacing
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A fabric structure in which the elements interlace on courses that are oblique to the edges of the fabric, frequently produced by braiding techniques.
Roller Bar
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A bar on a backstrap loom usually similar to the front loom bar, and placed next to it on top of the warp or woven fabric. The two bars are jointly rotated clockwise in order to shorten the warp and, on Ecuadorian looms, to secure it for weaving. Attaching the backstrap around the end of the farther of the two bars and underneath the nearer one prevents the warp from unrolling.
Resist Dyeing
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A method of patterning yarns or cloth by protecting selected areas so that they are able to “resist” the dye when the material is immersed and remain undyed.
Twining
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Pairs (or larger groups) of adjacent elements spiral or turn about each other in their passage through a fabric, enclosing successive opposing elements in each turn or half turn. Twining, may be oblique, or either the warp (in warp-twining) or the weft (in weft-twi
Tapestry
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Woven pictorial panel, usually made in tapestry weave that is weft-faced plain weave with the patterns created by reversing the direction of the weft yarns at the edges of each color area.
Supplementary-Weft Patterning
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Patterning created as the fabric is woven, using supplementary-weft yarns in alternation with the ground.
Stem Stitch
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A linear embroidery stitch in which the thread is carried forward in a long stitch on the front surface, and then back in a shorter stitch directly underneath, usually for half the length of stitch on the surface. Further, the thread is carried to the left of (or above) the