Weaving progress every 3 to 5 cm

Weaving every 3 to 5 cm
An Essential Technique for Textile Crafts

We all have the annoying habit of weaving as long as possible, right up to the mounting needles, with a very thin opening.
As we weave, the weft and warp threads intertwine and undulate.  As the weaving progresses, the warp threads become tighter and tighter.  Over two or three centimeters, this is imperceptible to the eye, but the further along you go, the more you begin to notice the difference in tension.  So it's essential to give the warp some ease (ref. Betty Briand's The Art of Weaving).
So, according to the literature, it's best to advance your weaving piece every 3 to 5cm, a technique commonly used in textile crafts to guarantee a uniform, high-quality end result. This method allows craftsmen to control the density and regularity of their work. Here's an overview of why this technique is important and how to apply it effectively.

In my personal experience, it depends very much on what kind of loom you're weaving on, and how you're weaving, but I think the advance can be anywhere from 6 to 12 cm.

Why Advance Weaving Every 3 to 5 cm According to the Manuals?

- Uniformity: By advancing the weave at regular intervals of 3 to 5 cm, craftsmen can ensure that each section of fabric is woven evenly, avoiding loose or too-tight areas.
- Tension control: This technique also helps to maintain constant tension on the warp threads, which is crucial to the fabric's structural stability.
- Efficiency: Regularly advancing the weave enables errors to be quickly corrected, reducing the need to undo large sections of work in the event of a problem.

How to proceed

- Preparation: Before you start, make sure your loom is correctly set up and that the warp threads are tight.
- Weaving: Weave the initial 3 to 5 cm section in the desired pattern. Check thread tension and uniformity regularly.
- Make sure your loom is level and that your reed touches all weft threads evenly.
- Advancing: Once you've completed a section, advance the fabric by slightly loosening the warp threads and gently pulling the fabric forward. Readjust the tension before continuing to weave.
- Repeat: Repeat this process at every 3 to 5 cm interval until the weave is complete.
In conclusion, advancing the weave every 3 to 5 cm is an essential practice for any textile craftsman wishing to improve the quality and consistency of his creations. By incorporating this method into your weaving process, you can guarantee exceptional results and a final product that reflects your expertise and dedication to this ancient art.