Loom Room FAQs

WEAVING??

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long will the weaving take? Each person weaves at a different pace.  After the initial instruction and start-up with the volunteer (about 3-4 hours), additional time needed for a tallit is usually 18-20 hours, an atarah 1 hour, a tallit bag, matzoh cover or challah cover 2-3 hours, and a tefillin bag 1-2 hours.  Plan on weaving your project during the time assigned to you.  If you think you will need more time, let us know before you are scheduled.

When can I weave? The Loom Room is available days, evenings and Sundays, any time except Shabbat and Jewish holidays.

I have never woven before, how will I know what to do? A volunteer will start you off with complete instructions on the loom.  The first thing you will do will be to weave the fabric for the corners or the seam allowance.  This will give you practice on the loom.  Once you feel comfortable with the weaving, the volunteer will leave but will always be on-call if a problem arises. 

How do I figure out the striping design? Instructions are included in the information that will be sent to you.  If you need help, a volunteer will be happy to work with you.

Can I weave with a design in the weave? The design in the weave is determined by the loom pedals used.  You may be able to try a simple weave design.

What should I bring?

Your detailed striping design with colors and heights of stripes.

A check made out to Neve Shalom Sisterhood.

If you like to listen to music, bring your IPad or phone.

A camera or camera phone to record the experience.

If you are weaving a tallit for someone, you may want to bring a picture of that person since weaving a tallit can be like going on a retreat with that person.

If desired, you may bring water/beverage and dairy/vegetarian snacks/meal.

All of the tools and materials you will need will be supplied (yarn, tape measures, paper, pencils) just come ready to enjoy this wonderful opportunity.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Shoes should not have a large toe box.

What happens if I have trouble? Should you have any problems, you will be given the numbers of persons to call to assist you either over the phone or in person.

What if I make a mistake? Even the most experienced weavers make mistakes.  Some of them can be corrected; others will just become part of the garment.  It will be important to check your work as you weave so you can catch mistakes.  Once you have woven more than several inches beyond the mistake, it will be very timely to undo the weaving and fix it.

How do I finish my project? If you know how to sew and have access to a sewing machine you can finish it on your own.  If not, we can give you the names of people who can do the finishing for you. If you want Hebrew embroidery, we will give you contact information for people who do that as well.

What if I have questions or need help after I am finished weaving?  We want you to have a successful and satisfying experience.  Volunteers will be available throughout the whole process, from the design phase through to tying the tzitzit.