An Introduction

 Why Am I Here?

Why should I learn weaving, particularly inkle weaving?  I

 had asked an old friend and weaver that very question.  The response from her was as easy as the breath she took to speak the words, “weave a while with me and you will have your own answer”. There were no truer words spoken on this art, for I sat down and wove my first band.  I never had to ask that question again.

For me, it was a peaceful experience.  One of anticipation while enjoying the journey.  With each new weave a new beginning, feeling my mind and hands becoming part of the piece, a unity I had never felt before.

After completing the band I realized that the end of this experience was not at all an end.  You see, the band was a scarf, one which I proudly used when I left on that cold winters day, sealing my fate.

That is how it all began, ten minutes of instruction and some good friendly conversation, we both worked on our pieces together.  As I walked away that afternoon I had gained the fundamental art of inkle weaving.  This art was achievable in a short time on the inkle loom.  And the best part was when I was done, no other actions were necessary.  It was an item completed and ready to use.  So if you would ask me that same question, I would respond with the same answer, “weave a while with me and you will have your own answer”.

My friend and I are not the only ones who share in the same passion.  There is a community of weavers all around us.  Weaving Clubs and Guilds are some of the the most rewarding haven for weavers.  Offerings of fellowship and support, along with the collective years of experience is priceless.

The internet is yet another avenue for weavers to travel.  You would be surprised at all the information available to you with just a few keystrokes.  Some of the nicest people I have never met are on the internet.

With all this knowledge and support, “why not” should be your answer.  Let weaving open up the door to a brand new world.  We will be happy to share this information needed to start you on this journey.

We will expose you to the tools of the trade and the materials used.  We will walk you through the basic steps in creating the inkle weave.  Talk about color and design patterns.

You will also need to speak the language of the weaver.  We will present you with the terminology needed to communicate within the weaving community.  There will be a list of terminology at the end of each part for you to review.

There is an Online Reference on our website to help you find more information on inkle weaving or anything else you are interested in.  Like having a library at your finger tips, and it's real easy to use, so go give it a try. 

Go through this course at the pace you are most comfortable.  You can review any part at any time you desire.  When you have completed the course we will send you a Certificate of Completion, via email in PDF, acknowledging your completion of a course in inkle weaving.

Please take the time to send us a note on your experience in taking the course.  We tried hard not to make it academic, no test or homework.  Just presenting information that you can use to increase your knowledge in weaving.

This is only the beginning.  After you have finished this course you will find a whole new world of creativity and passion for this craft that you never knew was there.  We are honored that you have chosen us as your mentor.  Enjoy! 

Thank You,
The Loom Merchant 

A special note: Most of the photos of inkle bands that will appear throughout this course are treasures woven on the inkle loom by Annie.  We would like to thank her for letting us use her pieces to demonstrate what one could achieve with the inkle loom.  Go visit with Annie AspinnerWeaver.com and enjoy her website. Thanks Annie!