The Power of Rigid Heddle Looms

Tammy Bast- The Rogue Weaver

Rigid heddle looms are often thought of as beginner looms — wonderful for plain weave, but perhaps a little limited beyond that. Tammy would like to challenge that idea.

In this presentation, she’ll explore some of the surprising possibilities of the rigid heddle loom, from colour and texture to lace, pick-up techniques, multiple heddles, double-width weaving, and more. Along the way, she’ll share examples from her own work and teaching, talk about where the rigid heddle loom really shines, and perhaps encourage both rigid heddle weavers and shaft-loom weavers to look at this simple little loom a little differently.

Many of you already know Tammy Bast — although perhaps from different parts of her life. Some know her as The Rogue Weaver, while others may remember her from her ten years at Gaspereau Valley Fibres. Her weaving life has since taken her into teaching, pattern design and exploring just how much a rigid heddle loom can actually do.