fall favorites \\ my 8 favorite tools this fall
As we move through the fall season and into the holidays, the time spent inside allows opportunity to further dive into favorite hobbies. I am constantly looking for new tools to incorporate into my practice and wanted to share my current favorites with you all!
1. this cotton warp (the natural color is really my go-to right now..)
2. soft cover mixed-media sketchbook
Not all sketchbooks are created equal. And believe me, that statement comes from experience! What is important, though, is that you’re using anything you can to get those ideas out and let them flow. BUT, if you had to use something… I recommend Strathmore’s Soft Cover Mixed Media Art Journal.
3. book \\ weaving: contemporary makers on the loom by katie treggiden
I had my eye on this book for so long and was ecstatic when I received it as a gift from my in-laws last Christmas. It’s proven to be great inspiration since but I find myself referring to it over and over this fall as I tackle a new style of weaving on my ashford rigid heddle loom.
It can be found on Weaver House. :)
4. bird sewing scissors
I have a strange collection of small scissors over the years that I have received from workshops, weaver friends, or thrifted. My favorite pair (of which I just got another…) are my bird sewing scissors. The size and shape of these make snipping small or large fibers ergonomically comfortable.
They can be found on Amazon here.
5. seagrass basket
It’s important to have a go-to basket with your favorite fibers for those moments when you need something extra for your work. I tend to reserve my IKEA Fladis Basket for just this— the fun scraps, odds and ends, and more unique fibers find a home here.
6. ashford rigid heddle loom
This rigid heddle loom comes in multiple sizes, ranging from 16”-48”. I landed on the 24” for my current ambitions but look forward to sizing up in the future as my projects grow in scale. This loom is a perfect transition into hand weaving on a more complex machine than a frame loom. Ashford provides videos that allow for set up, warping, and weaving all within a couple of hours.
This loom can be found at my favorite shop (Weaver House) or on Amazon in these sizes: 16”, 24”, 36”, and 48”.
7. stick shuttles
For any weaver, stick shuttles make life so much easier. For frame weavers, they are a necessity! It is recommended to get one slightly longer than the width of your warp. I prefer to have multiple on hand per project to be able to switch from fiber to fiber easier.
The Woolery makes stick shuttles in various sizes from 6”-48". They are found here!
8. cotton cord string
Cotton string is a material so basic and versatile, you’ll always want to use it! The various thicknesses allow for so much play. My favorite thicknesses to weave in have been 3mm, 5mm, and 10mm. This string beautifully unravels so your fringe is hassle-free.
My favorites can be found on Niroma Studio and Amazon.
This post contains affiliate links. See my full disclosure policy here.