The traditional art of weaving is the interlacing of threads or fibers to create textiles and accessories. You need the right supplies if you want to learn this craft or turn it into a small business. Here’s a list of the best weaving supplies, whether you’re new to weaving or just looking to improve.
The Textile Industry in 2022
Textiles are a diverse industry, ranging from large companies that produce in mass to small independent weavers who sell directly to their customers. In this industry, small businesses are not as competitive in price as larger companies. They set themselves apart instead by offering hand-crafted, unique products and personalized services.
Best places to buy weaving supplies for your business
Many stores and resources carry a large selection of kits and weaving supplies. Here is a list of all the places you can find weaving supplies for your new business.
1. Amazon
Amazon has a large selection of equipment and weaving supplies that including looms and yarns in different colors. It also offers books and kits that are perfect for beginners. Amazon is known to offer a lot of value and fulfill each order quickly. Prime members can enjoy free two-day shipping on many items.
Also read: Amazon Automation: How To Scale Your eCommerce Business
2. Etsy
Etsy has a wide range of unique crafts supplies including yarns and weaving materials. You’ll find hand-spun and hand-dyed threads and yarns as well as wooden tools such as dowels.
3. WEBS
WEBS, also known as America’s Yarn Store, offers a wide variety of yarns and threads for a range of craft projects including weaving. The company offers books, looms, and other tools.
4. The Woolery
The Woolery is an online shop that specializes in fiber crafts. The Woolery has a wide selection of yarns and all the necessary accessories to help you learn to weave.
5. The Weavers Loft
The Weavers Loft, an online store dedicated exclusively to weaving supplies. The shop is located in Southeastern Indiana, but it ships to all of the United States. The shop offers free shipping to most destinations on orders above $135.
6. Vermont Weaving Supplies
Vermont Weaving Supplies has a large selection of weaving supplies to suit all skill levels. The shop offers a wide range of fibers, equipment, and looms. They also provide helpful service in guiding customers to the most appropriate products.
7. Pacific Wool and Fiber
Pacific Wool and Fiber is a leading supplier of quality weaving and yarn supplies. Shops offer a variety of looms, threads, and accessories to suit the needs of weavers at all levels. The shop ships across the nation and offers free shipping on orders over $150 in the U.S. continental region.
8. Paradise Fibers
Paradise Fibers is a Washington-based business that specializes in fiber crafts and weaving supplies and is located at the Washington State Capitol. Find a variety of high-quality tools as well as blog posts that will help you grow your knowledge and a loyalty program for returning customers.
9. Gist Yarn
Gist Yarn, an online store that sells yarn and fibers to be used in various crafts including weaving, is a great place to find all the supplies you need. On the site, you can also find educational resources, patterns, and tools.
10. eBay
EBay is a marketplace website that offers a wide selection of weaving accessories and supplies, such as yarn, looms, and quality equipment. You can always find great deals and new items on the site since they come from different sellers.
Essential Weaving Supply Options
You may require a wide range of materials to complete your weaving project. Here are the most popular materials that weavers use.
Yarn
You can use yarns in different colors and materials to complete weaving projects. The sources listed above offer a wide selection.
Patterns
The patterns can be an excellent way to learn to weave different products. You can find a lot of unique items in books to help you hone your weaving skills or to sell at your store. However, you may have to modify certain patterns.
Dowels
Dowels are metal or wood posts used to hold the tapestry top in place after it has been removed from the loom. This can be used to hang woven pieces on your wall.
Warp Thread
The warp thread is a type of yarn that is stretched vertically on the loom. These fibers are usually thin and strong but also come in a variety of colors and materials.
Wool Roving
Wool roving is a thicker unfinished fiber that can be spun into yarns or added directly to tapestries.
Also read: Top 15 Dropshipping Suppliers for eCommerce Business
Weaving Equipment and Tools for Business
With the right equipment and tools, you can even make your favorite weaving project easier. As you begin your weaving business, here are some equipment types to consider.
Loom
There are a variety of looms to choose from, each designed for a different type and style of weaving project. There are a variety of looms available for weaving beginners. These can be placed on the floor, on a tabletop, or even on your lap.
Tapestry Needle
Also known as blunt tapestry needles, Tapestry needles are used to thread yarns and fibers into the loom in order to create different patterns.
Shed Stick
A shed stick is used to separate the threads running along a loom so that it’s easier to thread a needle through each fiber.
Weaving Comb
Use a weaving comb to bring yarns or fibers together for a stronger, more durable tapestry.
Scissors
You can use scissors with a detail tip to trim your yarn or make any cuts necessary to your finished design.
Skein Winder
The skein winder helps you wind the yarn to keep it from getting tangled while working on your project.
What is the best first loom to learn for beginning weavers?
A rigid-heddle style is the best choice for beginners who are looking to buy their first loom. It’s simple and doesn’t have any extra features. Choose a loom that is between 15 and 25 inches in width. This will give you enough room to move around comfortably, but not so much space that it takes hours to weave.
What kind of yarn do you use for weaving?
For different weaving projects, you can use various threads and yarns. Wool, rayon, and cotton are the most common fibers. The best material for your project will depend on the type of product that you are producing.
What devices are used for weaving?
The main device used to weave tapestries and cloths is the loom. Floor looms are available in a variety of sizes and types, such as rigid heddle, pin, and table looms. Choosing the right loom to suit your project will make it easier for you to master your craft.
What products can you make by weaving?
You can weave a wide variety of items. Rugs, tapestries, scarves, bags, and jewelry are popular items. Each item can be customized by color, design, and technique.
