Weaving is the topic of the day. After a brief overview of all the different techniques of ways of fastening strings of yarn together, like tying, knotting, crocheting, knitting, weaving, etc, we visited the local weaving crafts society.
This is a bridal blanket. It was carried over the bridal couples arms on the way to the church to, and later it would decorate a wall in their new home. The colors and patterns are traditional for Voss.
Another traditional blanket that was much used is this fleeced rug. It was used by fishers as a blanket onboard the boats, and was a warm and valued piece.
A more modern weave, this is a table runner.
Jon Å. Pettersen lectured about jaquard weaving, and showed some of his stunning designs in pure silk. Some made for the traditional national costume, others for contemporary use. It was so interesting to learn of the way he worked with restoring old patterns and old textiles.
Next on the agenda was card-weaving. Some of the national costumes (bun ads) in Telemark have bands and belts made in this technique, as seen above.
This is an old card-woven belt, so worn it´s falling apart. But still quite stunning!
The last time I did any card-weaving was 25 years ago! If you´ve ever wanted to try weaving, starting with cards might be a good idea. You can make some pretty cool things very soon, and you don´t need all that much equipment. All you need are the cards, and those you can easily make yourself.
The pattern is a bit strange. I think it looks better when I put the length together, so the two halves become one symmetrical band. For this band I only used 10 cards, and the band is about 2 cm wide.
In the traditional belt you need 118 cards. All in all I have 52 cards, so if I use the same type of yarn, I could make a belt of about 10 cm!?! Hm. It could be fun. One day… 😉
Beautiful! I made some woven belts when I was in college, I don’t even remember how they were done, except that I had a small homemade loom. I hadn’t thought of that in years!