Weaving a Personal Logo
- By Karen
- August 20, 2019
- 5 Comments
This logo goes back to at least 1982. It is on the underside of a bowl I made that year in my one-and-only pottery class. kmi for Karen Marie Isenhower. This personal logo will be woven into my upcoming pictorial tapestry. I know how I want the image to look, but it’s not easy to weave it successfully. I am practicing on a sample warp.
I am starting with the little cartoon that I used when I wove the Lizard tapestry last year (see Quiet Friday: Lizard Tapestry), thinking I can improve in the weaving of it.
Nope. It’s not any better. I am redrawing the cartoon to spread the letters out further.
Nope. Now, the letters are too spread out.
Finally, I reach a happy medium.
Yes. This attempt is successful. Now I am ready to weave my personal stamp into the new tapestry project.
You were made on purpose for a purpose. When the Grand Weaver created you He started a masterpiece with your initials on it. He develops the cartoon and lays out the colorful butterflies of yarn, with your personal logo in mind. Finish what He started. It takes a lifetime. In the end, my personal logo, never quite perfect, will diminish. And His royal insignia, embroidered in threads of gold, becomes the label on my life’s tapestry.
May you see your great value.
With you,
Karen
5 Comments
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Tried and True: Five Reasons Sampling Makes Sense
- By Karen
- August 13, 2019
- 12 Comments
Why sample? It means using more warp and weft. And it means waiting longer to start to the “real” project. What do I gain from it, anyway? Is it a waste of resources and time?
I can’t imagine putting on a warp that didn’t have room up front for sampling. There’s more than one reason to put on sufficient warp to weave a sample. It makes perfect sense, especially if there is anything new or unfamiliar about your planned project.
Five Reasons to Add Extra Warp for Sampling
1 Space to play. I want plenty of room to play, and to practice techniques that are new to me.
2 Room to try out designs. By weaving a portion of my designs, I am able to determine what works, and what adjustments need to be made.
3 Warp for testing weft colors. Only when woven can I see the full effect of each potential weft color.
4 Time to gain a consistent beat. When I start the main project, I want to have woven enough to be able to “feel” how firmly or softly I need to move the beater.
5 The best reason of all! It’s always good to have enough warp on the loom that you can invite friends and family to enjoy some weaving time. …Before your main project is in progress.
May you give yourself room to play.
Yours truly,
Karen
12 Comments
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Joyce Lowder says:
Lovely, Karen! Your advice is well taken! Also love seeing your friends checking out the draw loom. 🙂
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Beth Mullins says:
Sample, sample, sample. I love to sample. When I need a break from big projects I’ll dress the loom with a narrow warps and play with new-to-me drafts. Great advice!
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Hi Beth, It’s rewarding to try out new things on samples. That’s where we get some of our best ideas for future projects.
Happy Weaving,
Karen
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Charlotte says:
It is lovely, visiting your Blog, today. There is a Casita gathering Feb. 12th on Lake Belton. If you and Steve could sign up, I think you would thoroughly enjoy it. We play games, at night. Have music (mostly guitars, ukuleles), enjoy potlucks. I usually spend a few minutes with Sarah in her Saori studio and then…we piddle. I can send you more information, if you think you might be free.
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Good morning Karen,
I’ve done samples in others textiles, but never considered samples in weaving. Must do. It would have been one less garage rug when weaving overshot.Thank you for your wisdom.
Nannette
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Hi Nannette, I know exactly what you mean. I have garage rugs, too. Haha.
All the best,
Karen
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Vivian says:
Ha ha ha! What a novel idea. What a delight that you invite friends and fa,ily to try your loom.
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Hi Vivian, I truly enjoy seeing others find the pleasure in weaving.
Yes, sampling advice is age-old.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Gail Pietrzyk says:
A sample also gives you an opportunity to test finishing methods–especially if you are using some unlabeled mystery yarns.
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Weaving through The Big Book
- By Karen
- August 6, 2019
- 38 Comments
It took me seven years of study, practice, and mistakes to complete this rigorous Swedish weaving curriculum! You have been with me through much of it right here. I’m talking about The Big Book of Weaving, by Laila Lundell. I made it through the book, sequentially, page by page, warp by warp. 43 warps in all! Remember the blue 12-shaft double-weave blanket I had on the loom in June? That is the final project in the book.
In the short video below, each completed project is presented in order in our Texas hill country home. Watch to the end to see the blue blanket in all its finished glory.
For nitty-gritty details, check out The Big Book of Weaving tab at the top of the page.
I. Secrets to success:
- mindset of a student
- determination
- eyes on the goal
- no option other than completion
One loom dedicated to the book.
II. Lessons learned:
- technique
- processes
- planning
- drafting
- Swedish practices
Any mistake can be remedied.
III. Treasures gained:
- patience
- humility
- endurance
- focused attention
- problem solving
- creative freedom
Confidence.
IV. Prized perspectives:
- new experiences
- delight of dressing the loom
- wonder of cloth-making
- fresh ideas
- joy of discovery
- knowledge and understanding of the loom
Getting lost and absorbed in the whole process of weaving.
V. Favorite project: Old-Fashioned Weaving / Monksbelt (at 4:46 in the video)
Are we determined students of heavenly things? Oh, to know God’s will! Study what’s written, don’t lose heart, eyes on the prize, no option besides completion through Jesus Christ. One life dedicated to know him. Day by day, warp by warp, the Grand Weaver teaches us. We can know God’s will.
May you be a lifelong learner.
Happy Weaving to you,
Karen
38 Comments
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Susie Redman says:
Well done. It’s such a great book. I’m picking and choosing from the book – its a great way to learn.
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Hi Susie, I’m glad to hear you value The Big Book of Weaving, too. It’s been a steady teacher to me.
Thanks!
Karen
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Your work is so inspiring, Karen. I recall many of these projects, here and in Handwoven. Do you have a personal favorite? One that you’ll perhaps explore even further? Kudos!
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Hi Beth, Thank you so much! My personal favorite is the monksbelt piece—the large multicolor runner on the dining room table. And yes, I have monksbelt ideas that I would like to explore. Another one I’d like to play around with and learn more about is the turned rosepath—the long narrow red band. There are so many possibilities!
Thanks for asking,
Karen
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Geri Rickard says:
What a splendid presentation, Karen! You have accomplished so much, and each one is beautiful! Thanks for sharing, it was fun!
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Hi Geri, I’m glad you enjoyed the presentation. It was a lot of fun for me to put together, going back in time remembering all the projects.
Thank you!
Karen
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Betsy says:
Such a feast for the eyes!
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Cindy Bills says:
Wow and Wow! Such an accomplishment! And your lovely home showcases all those projects beautifully. Thanks for making this video and thanks for your encouragement. I’m currently doing the Jane Stafford online guild lessons with a new video lesson and project every five weeks. Sometimes it feels a bit overwhelming but I’m determined to try each one. I’ve already learned so much!
Thanks again for your encouragement and dedication, both to your weaving and for sharing your weaving and faith with others. It DOES make a big difference to many.-
Hi Cindy, I know how you feel. Many times I was overwhelmed and even discouraged about completing this mammoth dream. Keep pressing on with your lessons, it WILL be worth it–I promise! And between the hard parts, I really had a lot of fun! So enjoy it, too.
I really appreciate your encouragement to me. It means more than you know.
Happy Weaving,
Karen
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Annie says:
Hi, Karen! I remember that you recommended this book to me last July was exploring what loom to purchase for my first multi shaft loom. I ended up purchasing a small table loom, a Louet Erica Loom so decided not to purchase the book since I would not have the capacity to work many of the projects.
However, I recently purchased a larger loom and now, I believe that I will purchase this book. Thank you for sharing this and tweaking my memory of your recommendation.
Everything you make is so beautiful! You are a wonderful inspiration to a beginning weaver.
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Hi Annie, The Big Book of Weaving has been my tutor. I started with it as a complete beginner. It was written as a curriculum, so it has everything I needed to gain skill and confidence. I hope you find it a great resource for learning.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Karen Simpson says:
That video is amazing. As I hadn’t found you then, I didn’t know that you were following this book and studying your way through it. What a lovely compilation of work and color. Thank you
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Hi Karen, Only a handful of people knew I was working my way through the book. I have mentioned The Big Book of Weaving here many times, but this is my first time to mention here on the blog that I was going through the book, step by step. I didn’t want too many people to “guess” what project I would do next… 🙂
Thank you!
Karen
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D’Anne says:
Congratulations, Karen! I remember when you started working through The Big Book of Weaving, but I didn’t remember it had been 7 years. What a great learning experience! Did you use all the same yarns as the projects called for?
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Hi D’Anne, It’s hard to believe it’s been 7 years, isn’t it? For most of the projects I used the yarns that were called for, but in colors of my choosing. I did change a few, though. For instance, two projects call for paper yarn. I didn’t know a good resource for that, so I substituted 8/2 cotton for one, and 16/1 linen for the other. So, for those I have beautiful scarves instead of room screens, which suits me better anyway.
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Joanna says:
Karen, I’m speechless. There are no words for my admiration of not only your artistic vision, but also the incredible amount of work clearly visible in the lovely video. Thank you for all the encouragement and advice you’ve given us you worked through the Big Book. MORE happy weaving to you. Joanna
(My v. Favorite piece of your is also that fantastic monks belt. I think you captured all the lovely colors of the Texas Hill Country. It couldn’t be more perfect.)
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Hi Joanna, I’m fortunate to have a place where I can talk about things that I learn! Thanks for joining in!
Every time I look at that monks belt piece, I get warm and fuzzy feelings. It’s so cheerful! I’m happy you like it, too!All the best,
Karen
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kerimae says:
You inspire me! As you know! 🙂
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Carolyn Penny says:
Truly inspirational. Thank you for your diligence and following the goal.
What a lesson in perseverance. Warm glow…… -Carolyn Penny-
Hi Carolyn, Most worthwhile things take time and perseverance. Thank you for the encouraging words.
All the best,
Karen
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Vida Clyne says:
Congratulations on completing such an amazing and inspirational project. I love all the patterns and the lovely colours. I have not got the book but your lovely video makes me think I will buy it. Thanks for sharing.
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Hi Vida, I am very happy to hear your thoughts about my adventure! This is one weaving book I wouldn’t do without. 🙂
Thank you very much!
Karen
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Gail Goodrick says:
What an inspiration this is! Your work is wonderful. I love your color choices. Love, love love…
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Hi Gail, Aren’t colors wonderful? There are so many ways they fit together!
Thanks so much,
Karen
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Sue Blanding-Wilson says:
So inspiring! I will look at my book with new eyes!
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Hi Sue, This book will always be an important resource in my weaving library.
Thanks!
Karen
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Maria Hanson says:
Wow! I so enjoy following your work, but seeing everything in one video is just amazing! Congratulations on such a major accomplishment!
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Penelope kept the suitors at bay for 10 years weaving one tapestry. What a remarkable legacy of a textile artist in 7 years!
AND.. the hand wovens are not kept in a chest to pull out and admire. Basis the hems on the towels, they are being used. Beautiful!!
Thank you for sharing. PS welcome back from your sabbatical.
Nannette-
Hi Nannette, Thank you for noticing. Yes, the articles were made to be used, and they are used and enjoyed.
It’s good to be back.
Karen-
Anonymous says:
One of the sweetest moments was when I saw one of my patched blankets worn to the point of being hand mended. Textiles will age one way or another. It fills my heart knowing the ones that pass through my hands are used daily.
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That is sweet to think of your handiwork being used to the point of needing hand mending. I agree that the best handwoven items are the ones being used.
Karen
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Cindy Buvala says:
Wow! I am very impressed! A 10 minute video doesn’t do justice to the hours and hours of weaving work that precedes it. You are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your talent.
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Hi Cindy, It’s a great pleasure for me to get to share what I enjoy doing. Thanks so much for your kind words!
Happy Weaving,
Karen
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I haven’t looked at that book in so long. I’m definitely going back for another look! I hope you realize what an amazing thing you’ve done!
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Hi Karen, I frequently go to the book for reference. It answers so many questions for me.
I just took one step, and then the next step, and so on. I’m not sure I would have started had I known how long it would take me. But I’m very happy to have taken that first step…and so on.
Thanks for your sweet encouragement,
Karen
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Tried and True: Designing with Fibonacci
- By Karen
- June 11, 2019
- 18 Comments
Before starting, I sketched out several versions of the finished blanket, showing different sizes and arrangements of the rectangle blocks. My favorite version is one with a random look. This twelve-shaft double weave has three blocks. Block 1 is a solid color across the warp. Block 2 has a narrow, vertical contrasting rectangle. Block 3 has a wide, horizontal contrasting rectangle. The warp threading determines the width of the rectangles. But the height of the rectangles is determined by the treadling pattern. I decided to use a Fibonacci sequence of numbers in random order to guide my treadling options as I weave.
Low-Tech Random Fibonacci Sequence
1 Determine the desired range of the Fibonacci sequence. 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13
2 Determine the number of repeat options for each block (one repeat is 4 picks per double-weave layer).
- Block 1, solid color – 2 repeats every time
- Block 2, narrow rectangle – 2, 3, 5, 8, or 13 repeats
- Block 3, wide rectangle – 1, 2, 3, or 5 repeats
3 Write each number of the sequence on individual squares of paper. Make three sets of these numbers. 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13
4 Fold each paper square in half and place in a container at the loom. Mix thoroughly.
5 Randomly select a paper square to reveal the number of repeats for the next narrow or wide rectangle block.
For this blanket I have a woven hem and border, and then two repeats of Block 1 (solid color) between alternating Block 2 (narrow) and Block 3 (wide) rectangles of varying heights.
Surprise is built in which makes it hard to leave the loom. “Just one more block,” I tell myself…
May you be greeted by random (happy) surprises.
Happy Weaving,
Karen
18 Comments
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What a fabulous piece of work!
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Hi Beth, I’m glad to have some success after such a rocky start with this Tuna wool. Thanks for your sweet compliment!
Happy threads,
Karen
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Maggie Ackerman says:
I love the controlled randomness and the fun of the unknown design.
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Hi Maggie, I’ve always been intrigued by random-looking designs. But the control part is important to keep some coherence. I appreciate your observations!
Happy weaving,
Karen
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Betsy Greene says:
Love it! I can’t wait to see the whole blanket off the loom. This design would also make a great rug.
Weave on
Betsy-
Hi Betsy, You’re right. This would make an incredible rug design! Hmmm, I’ll have to give that some thought.
Thanks for the input,
Karen
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What a wonderful used of Fibonacci!!!!! And, you have fun finding out the next block to weave…always a surprise.
I hope to visit soon as there are so many of “our kind” of stories to share with you from the Navajo mothers and daughters….so, so many!!!!
Thank you, for being in my life…
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Hi Charlotte, Fibonacci sequence is a mathematical wonder when you consider how often it appears in creation. I like coming up with ways to use it in design.
Looking forward to hearing your stories.
All the best,
Karen
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Wende says:
Beautiful!
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How adventurous! I can’t wait to see how it turns out!
Love that shade of blue, Karen. -
Michele says:
I love this random use of Fibronacci. Your blanket is going to be fabulous. I try to use Fibronacci in my Mexican Tapestries, but have never tried picking a number at random. This sounds like so much fun and I am definitely going to try it.
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Hi Nannette, I’m glad you like it. If it comes out great, we can say it was God’s guidance; but if it turns out to be a flop, I better take the credit/blame.
Thanks,
Karen
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Lovely result, Karen. Love that beautiful blue!
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Hi D’Anne, Good to hear from you. This blue is the star of the show! Vavstuga calls it Lapis Lazuli.
Thanks,
Karen
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Cutting Off a Failure
- By Karen
- May 21, 2019
- 8 Comments
I made an embarrassing blunder. No wonder this Tuna wool resists all my efforts. It’s the wrong yarn! Tuna is 6/2 wool—twice as thick as the 6/1 wool I should be using. Cowboy Magic won’t solve this sticky problem. (I thought it would, as I expressed in this post: Tame the Wool.)
The yarn is gorgeous, but my frustration level is pushing me to throw in the towel. I tried hard to make this work. I was so convinced I had the right yarn that I missed it even when reader Joan left a gentle comment asking if 6/1 Fårö yarn would work (I’m sorry for not listening, Joan). There is nothing left but to cut off this failure.
In this lowest moment a thought occurs to me. Re-sley the reed. An ounce of hope rises.
I re-sley to a coarser reed and tie back on. I hold my breath and step on the treadles. It works. And it’s gorgeous!
Have you experienced great disappointment and loss of hope? Sometimes our own failure brings us to that point. The Lord makes things new. We come to Jesus with our failed attempts, and he exchanges our used rags of effort with his clean cloth of righteousness. In his forgiveness, the failure is cut off and removed. Our threads are re-sleyed and re-tied to make us gloriously new.
May you know when to cut off and start over.
Love,
Karen
8 Comments
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Where there’s a will, there’s a way! The “failure” would make lovely bolster pillows. We all make mistakes and move forward. The resleyed weaving is beautiful. I’m holding my breath about the project I’m about to start.
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Hi Beth, I thought about making a handbag out of the failed piece, but bolster pillows is another good idea!
I came perilously close to pulling all the yarn off the loom and calling it a total loss. What stopped me was the beauty of the yarn itself. I just had to find a way to make it work.
I’ll be looking for your brave project on IG.
Thanks for your sweet encouragement,
Karen
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I’m glad you figured out what the problem was and got it fixed. The colors are so pretty!
Looking forward to seeing you next week!
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Hi Betsy, Fortunately, most weaving problems are fixable…when we calm down enough to think it through.
I’m looking forward to seeing you, too, at the CHT conference next week!
All the best,
Karen
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Hi Karen,
Very pretty lemonade.
Thank you for explaining how to make a correction when plans need a little help.Kind regards,
Nannette -
It’s not fun when it’s happening, but oh, how good it feels to get everything straightened out! Good for you for sticking with it!
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Hi Karen, Thanks! I came awfully close to giving up altogether. You’re right, it feels terrific to get everything straightened out. At loom everything (or almost everything) is fixable.
Karen
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Copyright © 2019
What a neat logo, it looks great!
Hi, Elisabeth, Thank you!
Karen
It’s fantastic!! I hope you’re able to figure out how to include your logo in all of your weavings.
Hi Beth, Hmmm, that’s a pretty big challenge. I’ll have to think about that. I do have the logo wood-burned into all my shuttles and other wooden tools.
Thank you,
Karen
Nice.
It is so easy to forget we are indeed artists because what we do is part of our life’s breath.
The logo is a reminder of the blessing.
Nannette