I’m working on a pattern right now that uses 2 pick-up sticks to create staggered weft floats in my work. This requires me to remove and re-insert the second pick-up stick each time I need it. In the case of this pattern, every 4 picks. That’s a lot of time spent re-inserting a pick-up stack and seems like the perfect time to introduce string heddles.

So why am I not using them? Because, for right now, I am enjoying the slower pace of adding that second stick! For the past few months I’ve been weaving on deadlines. Every project needed to be done quickly so I could move onto the next stage of development…the pattern, the video editing, the PowerPoint.

Which, by the way, I have thoroughly enjoyed.

But it has been a long time since I have woven with no end goal. And even longer since I wove a tea towel. And somehow, weaving a tea towel feels like coming home. I’m not quite sure why. Perhaps it’s because tea towels are my go-to design projects. With a tea towel I am free to try new things without fear: if the project is not what I envisioned, it will at least be a usable item!

So for now, I’m enjoying re-inserting the stick every 4 picks.

Let’s talk about when you might want to add string heddles, as well as why you might decide they are not worth the effort.

Pros

String heddles really do make the weave go faster. Right now it takes about 30 seconds every 4 picks to add my stick. In 30 seconds, I can weave at least 4 picks. So this is really slowing me down. Which I’m ok with just now. It feels right.

String heddles eliminate counting errors. Each time you insert a pick-up stick, you add an opportunity for counting mistakes. Once you have woven the pattern and are sure the pick-up stick is right, adding string heddles removes that chance for mistakes.

It’s easier to get into a rhythmic weaving flow. Right now, my weaving is being interrupted every 4 picks. It’s so easy to get into a rhythm and completely forget to add that stick!

String heddles add a whole new level of weaving possibilities! As far a I know, there is no limit to the number of heddle rods you can add to your project. I’ve used 2 in addition to 2 pick-up sticks in one project. Each heddle rod (the stick your string heddles are attached to) adds a new “shaft” to your loom.

Cons

Making your own string heddles takes forever and is boring! I like weaving - I don’t like making string heddles. I have solved this issue, however, by using texsolv heddles! (I usually use the 9 1/2” heddles.)

Handmade heddles can come apart while weaving. When I make my own heddles, I re-use them. Eventually they get worn and start sticking to the fibre, and the knots will come apart. It is a challenge to add a new heddle in the middle of your work.

They take a long time to set up. Even though the weaving goes faster, it does take time to insert each heddle. If it takes me about 15 seconds to add a single heddle, then to add 80 (about what I need for this project) will take at least 20 minutes. In that 20 minutes I can reinsert the pick-up stick 40 times. Plus, I need to find (or make) my string heddles!

They look scary. If you have never used string heddles before, this is the time to slow down and trust the process. Once you’ve tried them, it will all make perfect sense - and you might love them.

For now, I’m sticking to using my pick-up stick. It’s slower, there are more opportunities for mistakes but right now, I need to slow down a bit. And, I also know myself…I know soon I will be tired of that stick and will take the time to find my string heddles and insert them. And while I might not love the process, I know I will be glad once it’s done.

Want to try some string heddle projects? Here’s a couple to try: Next Level Tea Towels, Swedish Lace Scarf and Let it Snow Tea Towels.

Happy Weaving!

String Heddles…or Not?