Weaving on a loom, by definition, is about threads crossing at right angles most of the time. When I learned to set up and use a floor loom in 1966, I also learned how to design patterns using graph paper and develop the thread sequence for the harnesses to weave the design. For most woven pieces a repeating pattern, either simple or complex, is usually used.

To make this more interesting, plain weave alternating with pattern weave can be used, as in a set of place-mats I made.

These have a lace weave around four sides with plain weave in the center. I also added some twill with colored floss.

This was fun to design but tedious to weave. At the time, I had little else to do except have dinner on the table each evening.

 

I soon learned to simplify what I did on each project, and to use thicker thread as in these aprons I made for Christmas gifts.

 

 

 

I wanted to weave an afghan, but I didn’t want it to just be blocks of color. I was able to achieve a less rigid look by making petals on the flowers different sizes.

When I’m working in mediums like paint that are not controlled by a mechanical devise, I usually make asymmetrical compositions. I wonder why I prefer that look?

 

I am always trying to escape the grid, the ridged look, the even on each side balance.   What is your preference?