Shuttle Catching

I am already a quarter of the way on this baby wrap. Simple plain weave with one shuttle is fast and uncomplicated, making this the perfect setting to improve weaving technique. Surely, I can gain efficiency by examining some of my practices.

First quarter woven on baby wrap.
Twill tape has marks that show 1/4, Mid (1/2), and 3/4 of the length of woven baby wrap. The first quarter used about seven full quills of light blue weft.

Under scrutiny, I see that I am not consistent in how I catch the shuttle. It makes a difference where I make contact with the shuttle as it glides into my hand. I often have to reposition the shuttle in my hand to prepare it for the return throw. That’s not very efficient. Solution? Look at the hand that is catching the shuttle. All I have to do is turn my head to look, and the hand does the job. It’s amazing how that works. It pays to pay attention.

Beginning sample comes around the cloth beam. Baby wrap.
Beginning sample meets the cloth beam. View is from the front of the loom, looking under the breast beam.

Following Jesus can be compared to finding a breakthrough in weaving technique. It’s more than just meeting him, and trying to go the right way. That is weaving by habit, doing it like I’ve always done it. Jesus gives all to those who give him all. Breakthrough comes when I give up my habits to find a better way–his way.

He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.

– Jim Elliot

May your eyes help your hands.

With love,
Karen

10 thoughts on “Shuttle Catching

  1. You explain so nicely the thought processes we(I) have when weaving – how to do it better, more consistently and how will this piece end up. That is the buzz that keeps us weaving again and again.

  2. Thanks for the reminder to use twill tape for measuring the total length of a project! I’m ready to begin weaving a couple of table runners and had forgotten to “use the tape”. I’m changing treadling during this project and will add notes to the tape to remind myself of when those changes occur. You’ve saved me lots of time and measuring headaches with your post.

    1. Hi Ruth, Oh good! I’m so glad this served as a reminder for you. Using the tape to make notes of treadling changes is a great idea. I’ve done that before, but I don’t always think of it. So you’ve given me a reminder, too!

      I love hearing what other people are weaving. I’m sure your table runners will be beautiful!

      Happy weaving,
      Karen

  3. I love the twill tape for measuring! I have a variety of ways that I measure as I weave, but none are particulalry good. I have twill tape, which I use to bind hooked rugs and will make a tape for my next project. The colors of your wrap are gorgeous!

    1. Hi Debbie, I used to use grosgrain ribbon for measuring, but I like twill tape better. It’s soft, easy to pin, easy to mark, and doesn’t stretch.

      Thanks for the compliment about the colors! I’m energized by pretty colors, so this has been happy weaving for me.

      Karen

  4. Karen: God wants us to spread our wings and try new things. I’m going to be the devil. Get rid of the template, think about the music of the weaving, and try new materials.
    Music :Open shed 1,3 throw from R (I put my index finger on the tip of the shuttle) by flicking the wrist. catch on L(put the shuttle on the woven cloth if using two shuttles), with R hand I give a little tug to the R side ..using R hand. Open the next shed (2,4) throw from L to right, catch, place on cloth, tug L,……..
    Some times by trying a new method one can find freedom, ,joy, and more time to .think..
    How about a nubby soft cotton with a cotton warp. love ya, Linda

    1. Hi Linda, I love your eagerness to help. You give great instructions, worth trying. I agree with you that it’s good to try new things and new methods.

      I do like using a temple. It’s a tool I’m not likely to give up.

      Love to you,
      Karen

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