Wanda Jean and Wostenberg Shelp, Carolyn

This book has been compared to the Marguerite Davison book, except that it deals with 8 shafts (Davison's book being held to 4 shafts). I would agree that it is as comprehensive as Davison's book, but it reminds me a bit more of the 8-Shaft Book of Weaving Patterns, edited by Carol Strickler. Simply put, it is a book of drafts for 8 shaft looms. In fact, as I leaf through it, I can't find any drafts that require more than 10 treadles, making it a great resource for weavers with floor looms.

The book consists of 12 chapters which seem to alternate between explanations about weave structures and chapters that are all drafts. The first chapter gives explanations about common language when dealing with weaving drafts and how to read them. The chapter on understanding crackle is particularly enlightening. I also like chapter 3 which consists of only drafts that can be woven on a straight draw (threading from shaft one through eight). Thread your loom once with a long warp and you can weave any of 52 variations by changing your tie up and treadling. Profile drafts are also included in this book and they are explained clearly.

One other aspect of this book that is similar to the Strickler book is that once you have selected a threading, you have the option of weaving multiple designs by altering your tie up and/or your treadling. Everything is right there on the same page for your decisions.

This is a thoughtful approach to eight shaft weaving with lots of explanations to give you an idea about how these drafts are built.… (más)