Southern Appalachian Digital Collections

Western Carolina University (20) View all

Fiber tools: loom stretcher

  • wcu_craft_revival-6112.jpg
  • A stretcher, also known as a temple or tenter hooks, was used to keep an even tension on the selvages. Sharp ends would fasten into the weaving on either side of the loom as the stretcher was opened. This stretcher has a pin in the side that can be moved to adjust the tool to the correct width. A note was made on the wood "17 1/2 inches," probably a reminder of the warp width. This piece, which likely dates between 1850 and 1930, was collected by Ayleene Bryan and donated to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The maker of this item is unknown.