I have a nearly finished 7' warp-rep rug on my Kessenich jack loom. Tight sett/high tension have created weaving challenges (pushing floating shafts down manually), but otherwise all was well until a rope that holds lamm and lifts 2nd harness snapped. I've replaced ropes before, but never with a project on the loom. Any advice on how to approach? I can't easily shorten the rug; still 4" of pattern and 3" of hem to weave.

Comments

Mon, 04/01/2013 - 14:59

Cat Brysch

During my many years of teaching at the then named Southwest Craft Center (and being loom doctor) that had 35 looms upstairs and almost that many downstairs, I found that no matter what system the loom is, I was able to work to repair treadles and tie-ups without any harn to the project in progress.

I used to put moderate tension on the warp (for its protection, so it wouldn't get tussled about) during repairs and then just went for it! You should be able to adjust, raise sheds, test and such without any harm to your rug.

Good Luck!

Mon, 04/01/2013 - 17:30

theresasc

and have had the same thing happen.  I have rolled the loom over onto the warp beam and replaced the rope.  It was a real trip to do on the 46", 8-shaft, that loom was big and heavy.  It was easier to get at where the ropes go with the loom tipped up.  Kessenich looms are sturdy enough to handle being rolled.  Be sure to pay attention to the direction the rope is wound on the roller and put three turns in.  You can do it and everything will come out fine!