Table and Floor Loom Yarns
You can use almost any yarn on your table or floor loom as long as it corresponds with the correct reed size and is strong enough to withstand being held under tension. However, yarn that’s stretchy with not maintain even tension which can cause inconsistencies in your woven cloth. You’ll also want to keep in mind that because of the friction that beating and lifting/lowering shafts cause, yarns that are smooth tend to work better than textured yarns that might grip to other threads.Â
Among weavers, some of the most recommended yarn brands for these qualities include Harrisville Designs, Ashford, Maurice Brassard, and Brown Sheep. These brands are known for their reliable weaving yarns that consistently offer the required strength and durability for successful projects. Here are a couple of our favorite table and floor loom yarns:
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Bluegrass Mills 6/2 Cotton: A 100% unmercerized cotton, 2 ply yarn. It’s perfect for heavier towels and napkins and clothing items with a bit more durability. There are over 25 colors to choose from leaving endless possibilities! Each cone holds approximately 2,320 yards.
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Maurice Brassard Cotton Yarn - 8/2: This is another 100% cotton yarn but a 4 ply. It comes in tubes of around 1680 yards and is perfect for using as warp or weft! It’s great for dish towels, place mats, and anything in between your creativity can conjure up.
What is the best yarn for weaving on a table or floor loom?
The best yarn for weaving largely depends on your project. Common choices include cotton for its durability, wool for warmth and elasticity, or linen for a crisp finish. Ultimately, select a yarn that complements your desired texture and drape to achieve stunning woven results in your creations.
Weaving Yarn Weight
Weaving yarn weights are not used to describe how much the yarn weighs. Rather, weaving yarn weight designations are used to describe the physical construction of the yarn. Weaving yarns are typically assigned a weight of 3/2, 5/2, 8/4 and the like. The first number designates the size of each ply (fiber strand). The lower the number, the thicker the ply strand. The second number indicates how many individual strands, or plies, make up the yarn. If you're more used to knitting yarn sizes you can use our helpful conversion chart.
Weaving yarn is also typically assigned a yards per pound or yards per cone value. Under this simple system, the more yards per pound translates into thinner yarn. Please note that these values will vary depending on the material of construction of the yarn. 20/2 yarn made from cotton, silk and wool will all have different yards/pound values.
Where can I buy high-quality yarn specifically for weaving?
The Woolery offers an extensive selection of yarn sizes, yarn colors, yarn textures and yarn materials. We have yarns in skeins and on cones for purchase.
If you don't find the exact yarn you want, or would like a yarn recommendation for either table or floor loom weaving, please call the shop directly at 800-441-9665 or contact us for assistance.
