Woven Wall Hanging using dyed wool rovings and spinning fibers

What is a Woven Wall Hanging and how is it made?

Woven wall hangings have become increasingly popular over the years, with their intricate designs and unique textures adding a touch of warmth and personality to any room. If you're unfamiliar with this type of decor, you may be wondering what exactly a woven wall hanging is and how it's made. In this article, we'll explore the basics of this art form and give you an idea of what goes into creating one.

Large Textile Wall Hanging

What is a Woven Wall Hanging?

A woven wall hanging is a piece of textile art that is designed to be hung on a wall as a decorative element. It typically consists of a base material, such as wool (in fiber and/or yarn form), which is woven using a variety of techniques to create a pattern or design. Many woven wall hangings feature tassels, fringe or ribbons on the bottom edge, adding an extra layer of texture and movement to the piece.

Woven wall hangings come in a wide variety of styles, from minimalist and modern to bohemian and eclectic. Some are small enough to be used as an accent piece (typically created using a frame loom), while others are large enough to cover an entire wall (created using a tapestry loom). They can be hung on their own or grouped together with other wall decor for a more dramatic effect.

Arras Tapestry Loom

How is a Woven Wall Hanging Made?

Creating a woven wall hanging requires a combination of creativity, skill, and patience. The process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the size and complexity of the piece. Here's a brief overview of the steps involved:

  1. Choose your materials. The first step in making a woven wall hanging is selecting the right materials. This typically involves choosing a base material, such as wool or cotton, as well as any additional fibers or embellishments you'd like to incorporate, such as ribbon or beads.
  2. Set up your loom. A loom is a frame that holds the base material in place while you weave in other fibers. There are many different types of looms available, ranging from small handheld models to large floor looms. Once you've selected your loom, you'll need to set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  3. Warp your loom. The warp is the base material that runs vertically through your loom. It's what you'll weave your other fibers into. To warp your loom, you'll need to measure out the correct length of your base material, attach it to the top and bottom of your loom, and then wind it tightly around a series of pegs or rods. Warping wool can be found here.
  4. Begin weaving. With your loom set up and warped, you can begin weaving in other fibers to create your design. This can involve a variety of techniques, such as basic over-under weaving, knotting, or wrapping. As you weave, you'll need to periodically tighten the fibers to ensure that your wall hanging stays flat and even.
  5. Add finishing touches. Once you've completed your weaving, you can add any finishing touches you'd like, such as tassels or fringe on the bottom edge. You can also trim any excess fibers to create a clean, finished look.

Spinning fibers

Tips for Creating a Beautiful Woven Wall Hanging

If you're interested in making your own woven wll hanging, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Experiment with different fibers and textures. Don't be afraid to mix and match different materials to create a unique, eye-catching design. Consider incorporating unusual fibers, such as silk or mohair, for added texture and depth.
  • Keep it simple. While complex designs can be impressive, sometimes a simple, minimalist wall hanging can be just as beautiful. Don't feel like you need to go overboard with your design in order to create something stunning.
  • Pay attention to color. The colors you choose for your wall hanging can have a big impact on the overall

Woven Wall Hanging

 

The image above is a recent wall hanging completed by Kansas City fiber artist Becca. (Instagram @culdesaccool)

 You can find more of her amazing pieces at her Instagram above, or directly at her website HERE.

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