Dressing up the loom

1 OCTOBER 2025

Before any weaving can begin, the loom must be prepared. This process is called dressing the loom, and it begins with measuring the warp — the vertical threads that stay fixed on the loom and form the foundation of every woven piece.

First step of dressing up the loom is called warping - each warp thread is carefully measured, ordered, and made ready for the loom.

What is the Warp?

The warp is the set of threads that run vertically on the loom. These threads are held under tension throughout the weaving process, while the weft threads are woven through them horizontally. Because the warp forms the base of the textile, it needs to be prepared with care and precision.

Measuring the Warp - WARPING

Using a warping board, a simple frame with pegs spaced 90 cm apart, it allows me to measure out the warp threads evenly and in the correct order.

1. Starting point – I begin at the first peg on the left corner.

2. Making the cross – At the top of the board, the yarn is wound in a way that creates a cross. This cross is essential: it keeps each thread in sequence and prevents tangling later.

3. Measuring length – From the cross, the yarn is taken down to the desired length and then back to the starting point.

4. Repeating – This process continues until I reach the number of warp ends I calculated beforehand, based on the width of the piece and the number of threads per centimeter.

5. Securing and Removing the Warp - Tying the measured warp on three key points: the beginning (first peg), the cross, and the end (last peg used). Removing the warp by making loops around itself with my hand.

The final step of this stage is attaching the measured warp to the back rod of the loom, where it will stay secure for the next steps of dressing the loom.