Some folks asked for more detail on how I added a shuttle race to my table loom. I hope the video below helps. Please note that I used the tarp clips because I like that they hold the stick steady if I wedge it between them. You could just tie the stick directly to the loom beater. You may have to fiddle with it a bit to get it to hang straight. Your stick should only be about an inch wide and should rest just below the warp threads.
Tag: Ashford table loom
Warping with the greatest of ease…
Here is a look at my homemade warping trapeze! This little diy project cost less than $10 and has been a huge help in warping the loom by myself—especially when working with very fine yarns. And it all breaks down and stores behind the studio door!
Two 2x2s, 6 feet long with two holes drilled into each. Sanded and finished with Howard’s Feed and Wax 
Position 2×2 on each side inside loom frame 
2×2 at right side of loom 
Insert dowel rods, 5/8 inch diameter, 4 feet long (extra length keeps them from slipping out) 
After securing warp to back beam, drape warp over trapeze bar and add weight 
A view from the side 
Warp weighted over trapeze bar 
A close-up of fishing weights. 4oz and 8oz used here; I adjust as needed based on yarn weight and size of groups. 
As warp is wound on, move length to lower trapeze bar 
Stores behind door!
A-tisket, a-tasket, look at my new loom basket!
I always seem to need an extra place or two while weaving to set down shuttles, scissors, etc. I ordered this long custom basket from the very talented Julie Ballard at The Suburban Pioneer.
It fits perfectly on the crossbar of the Erica loom and does exactly what I need! As a bonus, the small spinning basket from Julie’s collection hangs on the castle knob—functional and cute! Not to be left out, the blue loom bench basket is a nice addition for the weaving bench that I use with my Ashford table loom.
I added some pictures so you can see how the baskets are attached.
Weaving while it snows
It was a rare snow day here in central Texas. It made for a lovely view through my studio window.
See more photos from our Snowy Day January 2021
DIY Weaving Temple
Tarp clip versions of the weaving temple works well, but you don’t want the weighted string to pull down the edges of your weaving. The addition of a stick on both sides of the ashford table loom helps the string stay horizontal. I opted to use a light painter’s tape to hold down the stick in the front and tied to do so on the back. Do what works for you; just make sure that how it is placed doesn’t interfere with the operation of your front or back ratchets and doesn’t hamper your ability to throw your shuttle.
DIY Warp Weights
DIY Castle Lights
DIY Shuttle Race
Floor looms have a feature called a shuttle race, which is a nifty little ledge upon which the weaving shuttle can travel. Unfortunately most table looms do not have this feature. Without it, the shuttle may not travel well, falling through the threads and landing on the floor as often as it exits the shed safely. I wanted to add a race without making permanent changes to the loom, and many solutions I saw did not work with my Ashford table loom because the warp threads do not rest at the bottom of the reed. I was placing a yard stick in the shed to allow the shuttle to travel across (works, but it is a slow way to weave) when this idea came to me. You might have to play around a bit to get the stick placed just right, but I hope someone else benefits from my sharing. It works great for my Ashford table loom.
Weaving Loom DIY Projects
Sometimes your loom needs a few extras, either purchased or homemade. I am posting four DIY projects that have worked well for my Ashford table loom: a shuttle race, castle lights, a weaving temple, and warp weights.
weaving on 8 shafts!
This loom was a Craig’s list find. It is about ten years old and is in good shape. I did a lot of cleanup, replaced the bungy cords on the beater, and turned a couple of parts the right way around! Just started my first project and am already convinced this loom is a joy
