7 Weaving Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Syne Mitchell brings her deep expertise as a nationwide teacher and podcast host to this detailed guide on rigid-heddle looms. You’ll learn how to set up your loom with step-by-step photography and explore a diverse range of projects—from simple pillows to intricate jewelry made with unconventional materials like wire and rayon chenille. The book reveals techniques that stretch the loom’s potential, making it ideal for both beginners ready to start weaving confidently and experienced crafters seeking fresh inspiration. If you want practical, hands-on instruction with creative variety, this book offers a clear path without overwhelming you.

Anni Albers, a leading textile artist of the twentieth century, offers a thoughtful exploration of weaving that goes beyond technique to examine its history, materials, and creative potential. You’ll gain insight into how traditional handlooms and material sensitivity challenge the limits imposed by mass production, a theme she develops through vivid examples like her studies with corn and paper and detailed diagrams of pre-Columbian textiles. This edition adds fresh perspectives with essays by Nicholas Fox Weber, Manuel Cirauqui, and T’ai Smith, enriching your understanding of weaving’s role in design and craftsmanship. If you’re drawn to the intersection of art, craft, and design history, this book will deepen your appreciation and skill set.

This tailored book explores weaving in a way that matches your unique interests and goals, revealing techniques and concepts that align with your background. It covers fundamental to advanced weaving practices, examining various loom types, fiber selections, and pattern development with focused depth. By synthesizing collective weaving knowledge, it offers a personalized pathway through traditional and contemporary methods, encouraging creative growth and technical refinement. Whether you aim to master tapestry designs, experiment with different fibers, or perfect loom setups, this book provides an engaging learning journey customized to your aspirations and experience level, making complex concepts accessible and meaningful.

What started as a collaboration between Åsa Pärson, a textile designer educated at Sweden's leading textile schools, and Amica Sundström, a specialist in prehistoric and historical textiles, became a detailed resource that bridges tradition and modern weaving practice. You’ll find thorough explanations of loom setup, fiber characteristics, and weaving techniques ranging from simple to complex, alongside sample projects that invite you to experiment and refine your skills. This handbook offers a grounded look at weaving’s material and technical aspects, making it suitable for anyone eager to deepen their craft, whether you’re just beginning or seeking to enhance your expertise.

Rebecca Mezoff's years of experience as an award-winning tapestry weaver and educator shape this thorough guide to creating images with yarn. The book walks you through selecting yarn, developing color palettes, and mastering weaving techniques across various loom sizes—from tabletop to floor models. It includes detailed photos and showcases works from multiple artists to help you understand both the craft and artistry involved. If you want to advance your fiber arts skills with a focus on contemporary tapestry, this book equips you with practical knowledge and inspiration. However, those seeking only basic weaving might find the image-making emphasis more specialized than needed.

Ellie Fisher brings her rich background in textile design and a deep commitment to mental health into this approachable guide, blending weaving techniques with therapeutic intent. You’ll learn practical skills like setting up a simple frame loom, mastering basic and off-loom weaving methods such as twining and soumak, alongside nine targeted activities designed to ease anxiety, foster self-love, and relieve stress. This book suits anyone curious about weaving as a mindful practice, especially those seeking affordable, accessible ways to engage creatively while nurturing emotional well-being. It’s less about artistic perfection and more about finding calm through color, rhythm, and texture.

This personalized weaving book offers a tailored daily guide that matches your background, skill level, and specific goals to accelerate your weaving journey. It explores step-by-step exercises designed to build skills quickly, focusing on practical techniques that fit your interests and desired outcomes. The book examines various weaving methods and materials, revealing how daily practice can transform your craftsmanship with measurable progress. By concentrating on your unique path, it ensures you engage deeply with each lesson, making complex concepts accessible and enjoyable. This tailored approach bridges expert knowledge with your personal learning style, making weaving both achievable and rewarding.

The breakthrough moment came when Debby Greenlaw, having embraced a rural lifestyle, immersed herself in traditional Scandinavian weaving. Her book delves into krokbragd, a distinct weaving technique, presenting its structure for various looms alongside innovative variations like double point and turned krokbragd. You’ll find detailed guidance on yarn selection, color, and finishing, supported by clear illustrations and projects that build practical skills. This book suits you if you’re passionate about weaving or Scandinavian textiles and want to deepen your craft with both tradition and fresh perspectives.

The methods Emily Nicolaides developed while pioneering circular weaving techniques offer a fresh perspective on this traditional craft. You’ll find detailed guidance on selecting materials, crafting your own cardboard looms, and mastering over 30 weaving techniques across more than 20 projects, from wall hangings to home accents. Nicolaides, an artist and educator with a unique focus on contemporary circular weaving, brings clarity to each step, making it accessible even if you’re starting from scratch. This book suits anyone eager to expand their fiber arts skills with creative, hands-on projects that blend artistry and technique.