Weave Structures

Learn the basics of Monk's Belt, Crackle Weave, Summer and Winter, and Halvdräll. Like overshot, these patterns have a tabby ground and a pattern weft, but the threading and tie-up differ from overshot, and each produces a unique effect.

Overshot textiles have a distinctive construction made up of both a plain weave and pattern layer. Requiring two shuttles and at least four shafts, overshot textiles are built using two passes: one weaves a tabby layer and the other weaves the pattern layer, which overshoots or floats, above.

This post is the second in a series introducing you to common weaving structures. You’ll find many patterns in Gist’s pattern collection that feature twill structures, and, like plain weave, it’s another foundation weave that has a lifetime of new and exciting combinations to explore.

Plain weave is a fundamental weaving structure in which the weft travels over and then under adjacent warp ends. The weft does the opposite in the next row, traveling under/over a warp end it previously went over/under. Plain weave creates a smooth and strong cloth. 

There are many types of weaving techniques that can be used to create different fabrics on multi-shaft and rigid heddle looms. This post has descriptions and photos of some of the most popular techniques.