I have been teaching introduction to weaving for a long time.Recently, I learned that I have been using the wrong name for the knot we use for attaching the warp to the loom.
True confession
What I have been calling a double half hitch is similar to a clove hitch, but they are not the same. Both work for anchoring warp threads on a loom, but the clove hitch is more elegant, and it is easier to see whether you have it right or wrong.
Here is straightforward video instruction for the clove hitch performed by Robin of the Dancing Goats. Early in the lesson, he mentions that there are three forms for knots: a bend, a hitch a knot and a splice.1
In weaving (and other textile arts) we begin many projects with a slip-knot or a half-hitch (also known as an overhand knot). A double half hitch is two over-hand knots next to one another. In a Clove hitch, the two hitches form a symmetrical pair (the knot is cloven into two parts).
Down the knot Rabbit-hole!
I learned that knots have their own nomenclature, like all the crafts.
from: Jonathon Reiter, Retired Professional Mariner
How do I tie a clove hitch knot?
Take about a fathom ( 6 feet) of line, and hold the standing part in your left hand.
With your right hand, take the bitter end and take a round turn around a spar, then cross over the standing part, and come around again.
When you've taken the second round turn, pass the bitter end under the first round turn to the right so it lays alongside on the right side of where you passed it over the first round turn.
If you want to, double the bitter end before passing it under, and it is a slipped clove hitch. To untie it rapidly, simply pull on the bitter end.
More useful knots, bends and splices2
Knots are as old a string. Both are essential to hunting and gathers, fishing, rock climbing, sailing and who knows how many other human activities.
The Textile Arts have their own knots, here are a few more besides the ones listed above.
Weaver’s knot- is a slip knot that is great for adding on to an existing thread without making a huge bump. Very useful when a single warp thread breaks in the middle of a big project.
Lark’s Head: A lovely knot for attaching yarn to a frame loom or for adding fringe to a finished piece. It is usually made by bending the middle of a short length of yarn over a post or line and tucking the ends back into the loop formed by the bend. This knot is used to make Rya, a Scandinavian rug-weaving technique. It can also be used to add fringe to just about anything.
Slip Knot: This knot is used to secure warp ends to the loom. It is very helpful with Backstrap weaving because it is easily adjusted.
Over-hand knot: this knot is easy to make with one hand and perfect for securing your yarn to a spindle when used suspended ( for “Drop Spindles” see here).3
I am sure there are more knots to explore. I plan to dust off my old Girl Scout Handbook and try out some other fun knots!
knot: general category for working with lines (rope, string, yarn, thread, etc)
bend: used to join two lines
splice: used to attach two lines in a more permanent manner
hitch: used to attach a line to something like a ring or a pole
the knot making bible is Ashley’s Book of Knots
The term Drop Spindle was first used in the 1970’s among American Spinners. With the Bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence, historical sites were focused on demonstrations of tradition (Colonial) crafts. This triggered a revival, of sorts.
At the same time, Contemporary Artists were embracing Textiles as a means of expression beyond “only” craft. For wall-hangings, weavers needed funky-chunky yarn that could not be made on the antique or replica treadle wheels. Someone, somewhere, observed traditional Navajo Spindles and adapted the idea to make thick, arty yarn. A Navajo spindle is supported, it rests on the ground next to a seated spinner. Suspended spindles use centrifugal form (and operate much like a toy top).
Because folks in the 1970’s were experimenting with heavy wooden whorls, the whole device would frequently snap off the wool and drop to the ground.
Thus the name, drop spindle.
Fascinating knotty discovery, June! I love how you turned a learning experience into a celebration of knots and their various purposes. The breakdown of bend vs hitch vs knot vs splice is super helpful, and the clove hitch does sound like a more elegant solution for the loom. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and inspiring a trip down the "knot rabbit hole"!
I always learn something new from you June. :) My husband is an absolute wizz at different knots. It's such an excellent skill to possess.