Ikat3

Click to view enlarged graphics	Assembling the warp and dressing the loom
The various bands were assembled and spread on dowels at each end. To maintain even tension the spread warp was wound onto a warping reel. From the reel it was wound onto the back beam. As the warp was being wound on there was a certain amount of slippage. In weaving as I approached the mid point of the warp the pattern became less shaggy or floral and more formalized and dogwood like. It was sheer joy to weave such a colorful piece. Of course the greater excitement was to see the length of finished fabric -- such great color combinations in addition to the ikated patterns. This is my most artistically exciting piece to date.

After much agonizing I decided to make a Japanese inspired tunic, similar to the mock up draped over the bulletin board. so that the stripes can continue as they were woven -- an integral part of the cloth. -- adapting the method of African caftan sleeves, instead of set in sleeves. (Click for more details on sewing.)

Phyllis' Fiber Pages -- Ikat Process 3 -- Flowers