We have added a new loom to our guild studio. Thanks to the generosity of Ann Walker, we have acquired a Gilmore Compact 32 inch jack loom. Ann decided to set weaving aside to concentrate on her writing and poetry. We are very grateful that she wanted her loom to go to a group of weavers where it would give pleasure to many and it certainly will. Some of our weavers are limited to using table looms because they do not have enough space for a larger loom. They will be able to use this floor loom for larger projects.
Here is the loom half assembled sitting in my garage. Bob Allen of Gilmore Looms in Stockton California was very helpful in identifying the loom and providing tips for refurbishing it. His web site at http://www.gilmorelooms.com has some great tips for evaluating older looms and for making repairs.
Our loom has travelled many miles. It was built in Stockton California in December of 1976 and shipped to it's first stop in Jamacia Plains, Massachusetts. From there, it emigrated to Nova Scotia and finally it made the cross continent journey to Vancouver Island. Now it resides at the Via Train Station in Qualicum Beach. Here it is in a bright alcove in our studio in the process of being dressed with our first warp.
The final picture shows the yardage that we have just finished weaving on the loom. I am happy to report this little work horse performed beautifully. The finished product will show up in a future blog. It is all pleated up and headed for the dye pot in the near future.
Our next project has already been planned. We are going to weave a chenille rug. The warp is ready to go and the chenille that we wove earlier is sitting in a basket ready to become weft.
We plan to use the Gilmore as a teaching loom and for group projects.
Gilmore looms
