Set up the strings on the odd and even warp strings

Set Up the Strings on the Odd and Even Warp Strings

We're almost ready to begin weaving a rag rug. Now that we have flattened the warp and secured the positioning of each string, it's time to open it up and separate the odd warp strings from the even warp strings so it's easier to weave through.

Separating the Odd and Even Warp Strings

STEP 1: Insert a shuttle between the warp strings so that it is under the odd numbered strings and can raise them up when rotated. The even numbered strings should be beneath it.

STEP 2: Now you need to add the looped strings to enable you to pick up the even numbered strings. It's a good idea to do this beneath the shuttle so that you can easily move the shuttle all the way up to the top of the loom. Group the even numbered threads together in a way that makes sense for the size of your loom and cut the appropriate amount of string you will need to tie them together.

STEP 3: Reach through the loom and pick up the first grouping of the even numbered threads in your fingers, pass one of the lengths of string underneath them and tie the two ends of the string together to create a loop.

STEP 4: Repeat until all the even numbered threads are grouped within a string loop and can be easily lifted.