A Replacement or Additional Heddle for Weavers Who Want to Change Yarn Weight or Sett
This birch plywood heddles are either a replacement or an additional reed for the TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom. The 8 epi heddle is for double knit (DK), the 10 epi for 4 ply and the 6 epi for Aran weight yarn. Each heddle has a weaving width of 26cm (10.3 inches), and fits directly onto the TabbyandTweed loom frame.
What Is a Rigid Heddle Reed?
The heddle is the central working component of a rigid heddle loom. It is a flat frame with alternating slots and holes - the warp threads run through these openings, with every other thread in a slot and every alternate thread in a hole. Raising and lowering the heddle lifts alternate sets of threads to create the shed: the gap through which the weft yarn passes on each row. The heddle also beats in the weft after each pass, determining the density of the finished fabric.
Because the slots and holes are fixed in spacing, the heddle determines the epi (ends per inch) of the warp - and therefore which yarn weights can be used. Changing the heddle changes the yarn weight range available on the same loom.
What Does 8epi Mean?
Epi stands for ends per inch - the number of warp threads per inch of weaving width. This heddle has 8epi, which means eight warp threads per inch: a relatively open spacing that gives thicker yarns room to sit correctly in the warp.
Choosing the right epi for your yarn weight is one of the most important decisions in rigid heddle weaving. Using a yarn that is too thick for the epi will pack the warp too tightly; too thin, and the warp will be too open and the fabric loose.
Compatibility
This heddle is made specifically for the TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom range. It fits directly onto the loom frame and requires no modification.
Dimensions and Specification
- Weaving width: 26cm (10.3 inches)
- Material: birch plywood
- Compatible with: TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom range
Made in the UK
The TabbyandTweed heddle is made in TabbyandTweed's own workshop in Salisbury, Wiltshire.
FAQ's
What is a rigid heddle reed?
The heddle is the slotted frame at the centre of a rigid heddle loom. Warp threads run through its alternating slots and holes. Raising and lowering the heddle creates the shed through which the weft passes, and beats in the weft after each row.
What does 8epi mean?
Epi means ends per inch - the number of warp threads per inch of weaving width. An 8epi heddle has eight warp threads per inch, which suits DK and Aran weight yarn. For finer yarns, a 10epi heddle would be more appropriate with 6 epi heddle for Aran weight yarn.
What is the difference between a heddle and a reed?
On a rigid heddle loom, heddle and reed refer to the same component - the slotted frame that controls the warp. In shaft loom weaving the two are separate parts, but in rigid heddle weaving they are combined into one piece.
Will these heddles fit my TabbyandTweed loom?
Yes. These heddles are designed for the TabbyandTweed rigid heddle loom range and fits directly onto the loom frame.
Why would I need a second or replacement heddle?
You might buy an additional heddle to weave with a different yarn weight, to use two heddles together for more complex pattern weaving, or to replace a damaged heddle. Having a set of heddles in different epi ratings gives full flexibility across yarn weights on the same loom.
