The Loom                                               We can see the  backstrap is coming along quite well! I've spun and plied  the grapevine into a strap to anchor the weaving. When the backstrap is completed it will be used as the anchor for the loom itself. I've wrapped some of our spun thread around it in spots to protect it's surface.                                                                                                                             * I set it up so that the backstrap can be rolled up as the weaving progresses reattaching the backstrap to the loops on either side.   The traditional design uses a second stick. The weaving is wrapped around both sticks and the backstrap is attached to the leading one to maintain the tension.  Of course I am weaving the backstrap itself by using a climbing harness to apply the tension. Actually weaving works better with the two sticks as it is somewhat easier to keep the weft straight. Here is the full length of the backstrap. It is ready to assemble now! please click here to continue                                                                                                                                                                                      * courtesy of A Luminous Diamond (Bright) Crystal Show productions.