Lesson 1: Supplies, Yarns and Tools
Completion requirements
Lesson 1
Supplies, Yarns and Tools
The process of braiding has two basic tasks:
- Braiding overlaps strips of fabric or yarn.
- Once the fabric has been overlapped it is then wrapped underneath the other strips of fabric.
The braiding cycle is sequenced and repeated throughout the project.
Click each coloured tab to view information about the activity.
- Braiding usually is inexpensive but can become more expensive if you are advancing to a braiding machine.
- Fabric strips can be bought or used from old clothing or discarded nylons.
- Fabric strips can be fabric scraps, worn clothing or bought fabric.
- Make sure that your cut strips are equal in width and length when first starting out in braiding.
- Purchase the fabric from among those recommended for the chosen project.
- If substituting the yarn or fabric, select one which is as close as possible in weight and type to the yarns recommended in the pattern.
- Check the label for dye lot number. Purchase all the yarn needed for the project from the same dye lot to avoid color variations.
- Check the label for care information, tension and recommended needle size.
- Check the yarn recovery. Stretch and release a 15 cm length. Does it return to its original size?
Fabric strips can be from many types of fabric and yarn. Tightly woven fabrics wear the best, especially wool.
Clothes pins are used to hold the braid when not in use .
A tapestry needle also called a darning needle is used for sewing sections together, and working your yarn through the project.
Braiding cones are tubes that automatically fold the strips so no raw edges are exposed.
