Hello,

I am looking for some information about starting to weave with 60/2 silk. What is a practical dent size reed to use. I am also looking for anything that might be published on the subject, but so far have only found books on the history of silk weaving rather than the practice. (I shall be using a 24" 4-shaft table loom)

thanks for any suggestions

Comments

Fri, 10/12/2012 - 20:24

debmcclintock

Use the search function on projects to look up your silk size. You should be able to pull up plenty of projects with that silk to see how folks used the thread.
Fri, 09/20/2013 - 00:32

JPMorabito

As Michael stated, 60/2 silk should be sett in the 60 epi range. I usually work with a 20 or 30 dent reed to avoid reed marks. If you can't find one try a 15 dent reed and sley 4 ends per dent - it will minimize reed marks. 

If the silk is degummed, then starch the warp before weaving (good practice whenever dealing with fine yarn). This will strengthen the yarn and keep the threads from sticking together. To starch either spray while winding the warp or soak in liquid starch (either the warp bouts or skeins of yarn).