Introduction
If you enjoy weaving and creating handmade items, making a potholder on a loom can be a fun and rewarding project. Once you have woven your potholder, the next step is to finish it off neatly. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of finishing a potholder on a loom, ensuring that your final product looks polished and professional.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies to finish your potholder. You will need a tapestry needle, scissors, and a small amount of yarn in a color that matches your potholder.
Secure Loose Ends
Start by securing any loose ends of yarn on your potholder. Using the tapestry needle, weave the loose ends back into the woven fabric, making sure they are hidden and secure. Trim any excess yarn with scissors.
Create a Border
To give your potholder a finished look, you can add a border. Choose a contrasting color of yarn and attach it to your tapestry needle. Starting at one corner of the potholder, weave the yarn around the edges, going over and under the warp threads. Continue this process until you have gone all the way around the potholder.
Tie Off the Border
Once you have completed the border, tie off the yarn securely. Take the tapestry needle and weave the yarn through a few stitches on the backside of the potholder. This will ensure that the border stays in place and doesn’t unravel.
Trim Excess Yarn
After tying off the border, trim any excess yarn with scissors. Be careful not to cut any of the woven fabric.
Steam or Block the Potholder
To give your potholder a professional finish, you can steam or block it. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and gently submerge the potholder. Press down on the fabric to remove any wrinkles. Alternatively, you can use a steam iron to lightly steam the potholder, being careful not to apply too much heat.
Dry the Potholder
After steaming or blocking, gently squeeze out any excess water from the potholder. Lay it flat on a clean towel and let it air dry completely. Avoid hanging the potholder, as this may cause it to stretch or lose its shape.
Inspect and Make Final Touches
Once the potholder is dry, inspect it for any loose threads or imperfections. Use scissors to trim any stray threads and make any final adjustments to ensure that the potholder looks neat and presentable.
Celebrate Your Finished Potholder!
Now that you have finished your potholder, take a moment to admire your handiwork. Whether you choose to keep it for yourself or give it as a thoughtful gift, your finished potholder is sure to bring joy and warmth to any kitchen.
Conclusion
Finishing a potholder on a loom is a simple yet important step in the weaving process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your potholder looks professional and well-crafted. Enjoy the satisfaction of completing your project and creating a beautiful and functional item with your own hands.