This group is a meeting place and resource for those who weave on a backstrap loom and others who wish to learn and/or find out more about this ancient, traditional, and very-much-alive-and-kicking weaving technique.
The backstrap loom itself consist of a few sticks, around which the warp is stretched, then one end is fastened to a stationary object and the other end to the weaver to maintain tension. It can be rolled up and stored out of the way with the weaving still on it, and set-up costs are minimal. Some of the most beautiful fabrics in the world are woven on the backstrap loom, and the backstrap is probably still the most common loom in in use in the the world today.
The portability of this loom, along with its small footprint, makes it ideal for our modern busy lifestyle. The variety of fabrics that can be woven on this loom makes it a viable alternative to larger more complex floor looms, and proves that it is far more than just a toy, or a historical curiosity.




This month's photo is a beautifully handwoven Ikat bag from East Timor. The bag is fully lined, it zips up, and is of strong construction, made from cotton. I have no idea what the weft colour is as its totally covered. The bag is decorated with local shells.