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 * Tying Up A Loom Using the Snitch Knot*
*Using the TEXSOLV tie cords*
 * Using the Warping Reel*
*Inkle Loom Warping Instructions*

Tying Up A Loom Using The Snitch Knot 

   The snitch knot is a very simple and strong knot. Tied correctly it is fast to do and will not slip. The length of the two tied strings can easily be adjusted.

   A.  Two strings are used (photo 1). One has a strong knot tying it into a loop and is inserted (knot down) with the loop up through the treadle hole. The other (photo 2) is threaded, and left to hang, through the corresponding lam hole.
                                                                  1        2  
     B. First (3) fold the loop over making what looks like two ears. Then (4) fold the two ears around each side forming a double hoop. Thread both ends of the lam string (5) through the double hoop and cinch it up snug (6). If you hold the double threaded strings from pulling through you can push down on the treadle and make a rough setting by seeing if the lam moves to the bottom of the lam guide (photo 9).
                                3     4   5   6

          Next tie the start of a simple knot with the two ends, like you would do when you start to tie your shoes (7). This is all that is needed to keep the double strings from slipping through. Tie it up to the double hoops. When you push down on the treadle the lam should come down and hit the bottom of the lam guide (9). If it is OK, tighten the knot by pushing the treadle down and pulling the lam up (8). If you need to shorten the overall length simply pull one of the ends sticking out.  To lengthen you will need to loosen the simple knot holding it.
           7     8   9   10

     C. If you are tying more than one harness to a treadle tie them so they both come down together. You do not need to watch the tops of the shafts because if the lams hit the bottom of the lam guide together the shafts will be lifting evenly (11 & 12)
                                         11   12

Easier way to get the loop

     Take the loop with two fingers. Using your thumb widen the loop up. Twist it over and the double loop will appear. Holding the loop with one hand feed the double strings through. Hold them from slipping through and cinch up the double loop.
                   
                                                                               

                                                                        *Using the TEXSOLV tie cords*

                         
                       Photo 1                                                 Photo 2                                      Photo 3                        Photo 4

Texsolv ends should be melted to prevent unfraying.(We melt the ends when we cut them in lengths.)
Never use the last hole, but go back at least one hole.

1. (Photo 1) (The second hole is opened to show as an example). Put the Texsolv through the lam hole. Then put the other end through the Texsolv 2nd hole and pull up tight (Photo 2).
                                                                                       Texsolv Arrows    

2. Put the cord through the right treadle hole and insert a Texsolv "arrow" into a hole in the cord under the treadle (photo 3). When you push the treadle down the cord is adjusted right if the lam end hits (or about hits) the bottom of the lam guide with the long dowels, AND the treadle hits (or about hits) the treadle stop bar that runs across the back of the loom(Photo 4).

Using the Warping Reel

  The Warping Reel is easy to use. It measures 2 yards around, making it easy to get a measured warp length.

    
 Placement of Lease Crosses

1.  The Lease Crosses are made to fit anywhere on the reel. For the first couple of times making warps, it is best to put the Lease Crosses on opposite sides and to the far right and left. (Right photo above)
2.  First tie on a guide string from one Lease Cross to the other. It should be the length of your planned warp and a bright color. Your thread will go from the first big peg of one Lease Cross, around the middle big peg and through the two thinner pegs. From the first Lease Cross it will go around the Warping Reel as many times as needed for you planned warp length (2 yards per complete wrap) in a spiraling wind toward the second Lease Cross. Finish by going through the thinner pegs on the second Lease Cross, around the middle big peg and tie it to the outer big peg.
3.  Tie the start of your warp yarn to the peg that starts your guide string. Follow the guide string through the Lease Cross and spin the Warping Reel as you spiral around to the second Lease Cross. Following the guide string to and around its outer peg. Go back through the second Lease Cross to the opposite side of the middle peg making a figure 8 pattern between the two large pegs. Follow your path back around the Warping Reel by spinning it the reverse direction back to the starting Lease Cross. Go through the first Lease Cross in the same manner, around your original starting peg, back out, making the figure 8 pattern again between the two large pegs. Do this back and forth spinning motion for as many times as you will have stings in your warp.

Notes:

 Use a gentle spinning motion as you go from one Lease Cross to the other.
 You can vary the tension by adjusting the slip brake.

** It is often much better to keep your eyes on your path, or the guide string while spinning. Some people get motion sickness by watching the Warping Reel turning. **

Gilmore Looms Inkle/Belt Loom

You can view a movie about setting up the Gilmore Inkle/Belt Loom by clicking >   Inkle/Belt Loom Movie

Some Extra Instruction Files
Click on the file name to bring it up 

GEM II Basic Instructions Sheet (pdf file)
Making your own String Heddles for the Original Inkle/Heddle looms and original Inkle Lap Loom (pdf file)