Handwoven Trivets

Four-Shaft Pattern on a Rigid Heddle Loom: Why Not?

We often associate complex four-shaft patterns with floor looms, but with a bit of ingenuity, a rigid heddle loom can rise to the challenge. Thanks to the pattern designer tool from Not So Rigid Weaver, the possibilities open up. Using the program, I adapted a four-shaft pattern I found online to suit my rigid heddle loom and drafted my design.

While the design phase was straightforward, warping the loom proved to be more challenging. This particular pattern required some trial and error, and I had to tweak my warping process several times before getting it right.

However, the effort paid off, and once I started weaving, the pattern began to take shape. The real magic happened after washing the final cloth—the pattern truly bloomed.

Since I only wove a small sample, I decided to transform it into a set of pot holders and trivets. By adding wool batting for insulation and a cotton fabric backing, these pieces became a functional, stylish, and decorative addition to the home.