The Creation of a Tea Towel

The actual weaving on the loom part of making a tea towel is just one step in a lengthy process. I’ve taken some photos of the stages of tea towel creation - this process applies to any handwoven item, more or less. (For example, if a piece has a fringe instead of a hem, the fringe needs to be twisted and trimmed.)

Step 1: Design

Design can be done on computer programs or by pencil - I find writing down the specifics helps me visualize the final product more clearly. This is the math-iest part of the process! 

Step 2: Winding the Warp

Round and round the warping board to put on 480 threads in the correct colour order. The warp for a tea towel is done in two sections - the first half is completed and hanging on the lower left of the board. 

Step 3: Dressing the Loom

There are many stages involved in getting the warp onto the loom: spreading out the warp, winding it on under tension, threading each thread through its own specific heddle, pulling the threads through the metal reed, and then tying them all on - this is where the actual weaving finally begins!

Step 4: Weaving

This is the most exciting part to me, as the colours and patterns come together and create something tangible. And little by little, the completed fabric is wound around the front beam. 

Step 5: Trimming

Once the fabric comes off the loom, there are many ends of thread to be trimmed. The more colours, the more ends. I like using lots of colours, so my little clippers and I spend a lot of time together…..

Step 6: Washing

Next, the entire length goes into very hot, soapy water. This helps draw the cotton fibres together for a strong, absorbent towel. It also takes out some of the excess dye. Then it goes through a spin in the washer and a dryer cycle set on high heat. 

Step 7: Ironing and Cutting

The entire length is ironed, and the towels cut apart with my giant tailor scissors. There are usually seven towels in each series.

Step 8: Hemming

I hand hem every towel. This makes for a very secure hem, and it’s invisible as well. 

Step 9: Finishing Up

Each towel is washed in the machine, dried on high, and ironed again. Final trimming of any threads happens at this point. And then, they are ready to go to their new homes, bringing with them my warmest wishes for joy in the ordinary moments.