Handloom weaving is an ancient craft with a long and diverse history. It is a type of weaving that is done on a loom, which is a frame used to hold yarns, threads, or other materials in place while weaving. This type of weaving often produces unique, intricate designs and textures that cannot be achieved with other types of weaving. In this blog post, we will explore the various details related to handloom weaving, including the types of looms used and the materials needed in the craft. We will also discuss some of the benefits of handloom weaving, and why handloom sarees are superior than other sarees. Finally, we will provide some details for those interested in learning more about handloom weaving.
Different types of handlooms
There are several types of handlooms that have been used around the world, including:- Backstrap Loom: This loom is lightweight and portable, allowing weavers to take it with them wherever they go. The warp threads are attached to a belt that goes around the weaver’s body, thus allowing them to adjust the tension of the fabric.
- Frame Loom: This loom is made from a wooden frame, and is ideal for weavers who want to create larger pieces of fabric. It can be used for both warp-faced and weft-faced weaving techniques.
- Inkle Loom: The Inkle loom is specifically designed for weaving narrow, tubular pieces of fabric. It is often used to make laces and bands.
- Tablet Weaving Loom: This loom is used to create intricate patterns with colorful threads. It consists of a series of wooden tablets that are strung together, and a shuttle is used to weave the threads together.
- Tapestry Loom: This type of loom is designed for weaving complex designs with thicker yarns. It is typically used for creating wall hangings and rugs.
Parts of handloom
Parts of a handloom include the warp beam, reed, heddles, shuttle, and treadles. The warp beam is a large cylindrical beam that stores the warp threads. The reed is a comb-like structure with teeth that separates and packs the warp threads. Heddles are looped cords that are attached to the warp threads. The shuttle is a device used to throw weft thread across the warp threads. Lastly, treadles are pedals that are connected to the heddles, which open and close the shed.
How handloom sarees are made?
Handloom sarees are traditionally handmade garments made from natural fibers like cotton, silk, and wool. They are usually woven on a handloom, which consists of a wooden frame, heddles, a shuttle, and a reed. The process of hand weaving begins with preparing the warp yarn, which is wound around the heddles, and the weft yarn, which is passed through the warp yarns using the shuttle. Then the weaver uses their hands to create the pattern and texture of the fabric, which is often based on traditional patterns passed down through generations. Finally, the saree is washed, ironed, and checked for any imperfections before it is ready to be worn.
Why to wear a handloom saree?
Wearing handloom sarees is a great way to show your appreciation for the traditional craftsmanship and skill that has been passed down through generations of artisans. Handloom sarees are usually made from natural fibers like cotton, silk, and jute which make them lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to wear. Additionally, the intricate designs crafted into the fabric are stunning and truly unique; there's no other fabric out there quite like it. Finally, wearing a handloom saree is a great way to support the livelihood of artisans who create these beautiful pieces, giving you a sense of satisfaction that you are contributing to the preservation of their craft.