Southern Appalachian Digital Collections

Western Carolina University (20) View all

Fiber tools: warping board

  • wcu_craft_revival-6101.jpg
  • Before running the warp for a loom, the threads must be measured for tying on. By winding threads in a consistent track across the board, the weaver was able to estimate the length of one rotation from beginning to end. Fiber is tied on to a starting peg and looped back and forth with an even tension to the lower pegs. Careful wrapping around the pegs helps to keep the warp threads in order. Warping boards varied in size; on this one the pegs are about 36" apart. On large boards, seen in old photos, the weaver had to walk from one side to the other. This early 1900s warping board was used for many years in the Crossnore School's Weaving Room. The creator of this item is unknown.