Fun with weaving

Yesterday was the monthly gathering of our small group of local crafters who take it in turns to host a get-together, where we try something new or improve the skills we already have.  This week it was Sue's turn, and she hosted a weaving workshop.  The top photo shows her loom (a recent gift) and her current work in progress (very impressive).

On a table were various small looms Sue had made up so we could all have a go.  3 of us went for the square looms and Dawn chose the circular embroidery hoop.

Here are just a couple of the books which were for perusal.  Of course, I didn't find the couple I had until I got home (untidy so and so I am).

Above - my first effort.  The brown square in the middle was an attempt at making a shape in the middle of the weave, picture-wise.  It's fluffy at the top as that was a twist of brown Alpaca fleece, from curiosity as to how it would work.  I wasn't very adventurous!  Unlike Sue, below, who went really off-piste and introduced various different elements in her weaving.

Below - Lyn had found out the best way of rolling the yarn onto the "lollypop" which made weaving with it much simpler.

Finally - Dawn chose the circular "loom" and made this colourful piece with different textures (more Alpaca fleece from her Alpacas).

Then after lunch we went on to try a different sort of weaving for a scarf each.  Lyn used various long coloured ribbons of material on hers and modelled it afterwards.

I just used some chunky green wool and a thinner purple threaded through either side, then lilac  weave across it.  It's still a WIP but I plan to try and get it finished tomorrow, whilst I'm watching the racing.  I have a few ends to sew in too.

Here was Sue's using a black base scarf, and I forgot to get a photo of Dawn's colourful one.

We all had a great time, much chattering but an ABSOLUTE SILENCE of concentration when we were working on the looms!  I dare say we were all biting our lips too.  

Finally, this was my late friend Annie's Inkle loom, which I am going to get to grips with.  It needs to be re-warped, but I shall play with what's on there, take photos of how to warp it as it is now, and then start with fresh yarn.

Note:  tomorrow is a "ta-dah" day"!  Something finally FINISHED.