The Process

P1

The Process:
My original designs are developed on graph paper. The weave structure I employ is Summer and Winter with shaft-switching, which produces a reversible rug with a light and dark side. The loom I use has shaft-switching levers which allow me, essentially, to change the threading while weaving, This offers greater freedom of design than traditional loom-controlled methods. Shaft-switching is a technique I learned from the British rug weaver, Jason Collingwood.

P2

On my wool rugs I weave card-woven selvedges. The technique is an adaptation of a Navajo style edge and is woven in a different weave structure than the body of the rug. It is woven simultaneously with the rug. The method for weaving card-woven selvedges was developed by Martha Stanley, a California rug weaver. I learned it at a workshop taught by Martha. It produces a beautiful and decorative edge.

My rugs have hemmed top and bottom edges, unless fringe is specified for a custom order.

I use the very best materials available to me. The linen warp is factory spun especially for rug weaving and is very strong. The imported wool I use for weft is a long staple fiber – very important for a durable rug which will wear very well.

Currently my focus is on wool rugs, which take a considerable length of time to weave. I can also weave the same designs in rag rug style, using strips of cotton fabric for the weft. The fabric strips are cut from new fabric. I have a few rag rugs left in stock, however, in the future I will be weaving them only if commissioned.

The rugs can be woven in different sizes, up to approximately five feet in width. The length has very little limitation as long as there is enough warp on the loom. Most of my designs can be adapted to different rug sizes.

My weaving studio is a one-person operation; there are no elves to do any of the “grunt” work.

I am happy to accept commissions for custom work. I will work with clients to develop designs and color schemes they want.

 P3

Detail of X-Two