“Domestic to Decorative”: Warp-Weighted Loom Demo
November 20, 2023 8 Comments
Thanks to Melba Granlund and Peg Hansen who demonstrated weaving on a traditional Scandinavian warp-weighted loom at Red Wing Arts on November 18, as part of the Scandinavian Weavers exhibit “Domestic to Decorative: The Evolution of Nordic Weaving.” Visitors were fascinated by this ancient weaving technique, and Melba and Peg looked their finest in their Viking garb!
Melba Granlund explains the history of the warp-weighted loom to visitors (dogs included). Melba teaches classes in warp-weighted weaving at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota, North House Folk School, Shepherds Harvest, and other venues.
Red Wing Arts is the perfect space for weaving on a warp-weighted loom: Plenty of room and lots of sunlight!
The big loom always draws a crowd!
Peg Hansen demonstrates rya weaving on the small warp-weighted loom she built in Melba’s class at North House Folk School. (Notice the deer antlers.)
Any weaver who has used a warp-weighted loom will tell you the slowest part of the process is tying on the loom weights.
Yes, still tying on rocks!
Our beautiful Viking maidens!
For close-up photos of Peg’s handmade loom and the saga that inspired it, visit Robbie LaFleur’s blog post here
About Lisa-Anne Bauch
Scandinavian Weavers Study Group 
WHAT a gorgeous article! Where could I find the pattern for the blue dress worn by the Viking Maiden? Just love it and the handwoven bands on the wrists and neckline.
Charlotte, thanks for your lovely comment! I have passed your question on to Melba and hope to have an answer for you soon.
Melba says the pattern is from Nille Glaesel’s book “Viking: Dress Clothing Garment.” Melba woven the bands using tablet weaving technique.
Nille’s website can be found at nilleviking.no
Oh you dears! Thank you! I have a Purple Heart wood Ed Stevens Leksandband loom. the band on her garment is precious. I must weave it and I’ll look for the pattern. Y’all are wonderful to me!!!! Thank you…Charlotte
Charlotte, please send photos of your dress and bands as you work on them – we would love to see them!
I can’t seem to find a pattern on the site you sent me. Any ideas? Thank you!
Oops! Melba says the dress pattern came from Nille’s book:
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div dir=”ltr”>Aha! Found the book