Congratulations on your Fanny! I have been restoring, weaving on and reselling second hand looms since 2003. The first thing I do is a good scrub down. I don't refinish the looms, because like us as we get older we have wrinkles, scars, etc and it adds character to us and the loom. Plus, I didn't have the time, I am too busy buying looms, wanting more looms or weaving, quilting, spinning, crocheting, sewing, sailing....... My first suggestion to anyone restoring a loom is to scrub it down and wear a mask, and gloves. The last floor loom I purchased was a 1980s 45 inch Mira. It wasn't until I got her home that the loom was covered with mold, especially in parts that were hard to see. I scrub with a soap called Sunlight bar soap. It will remove anything and everything even paint and dyes from dyeing warps on the loom. I did not wear a mask and became very ill from cleaning this loom. This loom sides were so dirty, the bubbles were black that I took the sides outside to hose it down. I tried it well, brought it inside. This purchase actually has stopped my buying old second hand looms. After the loom wood is dry, I use a wood wax, my favourite being the Majacraft spinning wheel wax, it leaves the wood glowing. My cherry Mighty wolf and cherry pup just glow after a treatment. You can use whatever is available that you like in your country. Many use Howards feed and wax but it is not available where I live. Back to restoration. Due to age, dirt, and molds hide everywhere, I change out all cords. This includes, roller, treadle and tie up cords. I replaced all the roller cords on the Mira. If the aprons are ok or if the outer part is only old, damaged or dirty, they can be removed, wash or old parts cut away. I also wash and scrub heddles, metal or texsolv. Texsolv are easy, I put them in a lingerie bag and in the washing machine they go. String heddles can also be washed. Metal heddles get scrubbed and soaked. Reeds get a cleaning, but if very rusty get replaced, Examine all metal parts, brake, pawls and ratchets, etc. I clean off rust, most rust will easily wipe away with a scour sponge. I don't use heavy chemicals on rust. Minor rust spots that are cosmetic, are like the age spots we humans get. ;) I will replace tension brake wire if it is rusty, sometimes these old looms need a brake upgrade, the upgrade makes weaving easier. If screws, washers, etc are very rusty, they get replaced. If a bolt or two are missing, I replace them, If you replace most of them, whether needed or not, it makes the loom look nicer, like getting your nails painted. Wood cracks. I fill with a syringe filled with good wood glue then clamp. Rough parts, dings, etc I sand down to make smooth then use my wax to protect the bare spot. Your uneven fell sounds like it was caused from the missing bumpers on the beater. I replace old squashed down bumpers on the loom. I have a question about your new Mira II. Why do you have the bottom beater batten reversed with the shuttle race rear facing? The shuttle race should be on the front. CB looms don't need them and I was surprised one came on my brand new Mira II. I think we have the same friend who ordered the 27 inch Mira. Yes, Leclerc will custom make one, but the price is the same as the 36". They cut down the parts. The 45 inch Mira I restored is long gone as it was too wide to fit in my studio. I can't thank you enough for making videos about your Mira II. You helped me decide that I wanted a sturdy CB loom. My favourite weaves are home textiles and fabric for clothing. I rarely weave on more than 4 shafts. I prefer colour and texture over patterning. The 36 inch, like your 27 inch Fanny is the perfect loom for the space in my small studio, to accompany my 8 shaft cherry Mighty Wolf and my 16 shaft Harris UK table loom for when I want to weave more than 4 shafts. I recently purchased from a friend and it was clean, a 1980 8 shaft 16 inch Leclerc Dorothy. What a sweet loom! She is old, she is having issues, old pawls and ratchets, cracking wood, even some warping. I found two of the metal arms bent on the second castle which interferes with the shafts staying up. The castles need to be taken apart and issues repaired. I have added a second back beam to her which accepts saori prewound warps. I am undecided as to replace items like brakes, handles, get the beater batten with a race, replace bumpers or just buy a new 4 shaft Dorothy and use the Castles to make her a 12 shaft. A third new castle will cost a little bit over half the cost of a new Dorothy. I live in Europe so taxes are higher. Decisions decisions. I will say I LOVE my Dorothy.
This is exactly the type of information I need. I've just retired and I've been eyeing a 45 inch floor loom I've had for at least 30 years. I also bought it used. To make space in my house, its been moved and disassembled. Now I'm pondering putting it all back together. Can I do it? I feel encouraged that perhaps I can!
I have a Sievers 4 shaft collapsible floor loom from the early 1970’s. A friend who knew that I like sewing/knitting etc talked me into buying it (along with an Ashford spinning wheel) after his wife passed. I took a learn to weave class on Washington Island where Siever’s School of fiber arts is located. I made a table runner for each of his daughter’s when they got married. They both appreciated the gift that was created on their mother’s loom. It’s been a few years since I’ve played with it. Being an RN working hard these past couple of years has worn me down but listening to you has put a spark back in me!
@@cherylsimpson8983 turns out, my beater was beating crooked because one of the pads underneath the loom was missing. When I restored the loom, I took the whole thing apart and discovered the missing piece. Once I replaced it, the loom beats perfectly square now! Excited to hear that you have a Fanny loom as well. They are wonderful to weave on. Such beautiful tools.
Just got my used Mira loom off Kijiji this month. I think it was made about the same time I was (1967). I got the instructions on how to put it all together off Camilla Valley Farms LeClerc old instructions on their website. I love that LeClerc still makes parts for their older looms. I am upgrading the loom to have all the bells and whistles that the Mira II has. My first time weaving. I love SweetGeorgia.! Thank you for having this forum. I have gone back to school and am a textiles major in Craft and Design at Sheridan College. I am in my second year and we are starting weaving this term. After all these years of watching u-tube videos about weaving, I am going to get to weave with my own little hands. I like the overshot pattern you are working on.
The comments here have been entertaining. Looking forward to seeing what you do to get this loom working for you. First loom I rescued was a 1970s BabyWolf that needed degunking in the heddle frame and lamms chase and replacement of the cords and some nuts and bolts. That loom taught me much and has moved on to teach someone else. Then while I was waiting on my new Macomber I had the chance to rescue a 1958 Macomber that had been stored in a barn with pigeons. It needed stripping of all wood and metal pieces and some serious repair as well as replacement of all fabrics, strings, heddles, and bumpers. Since I was already dealing with Macomber it was convenient to get these. There is a Ravelry Macomber group that was very helpful. Now I'm down to two floor looms that are both 40" Macombers, one with 4 shafts the other 16. Nice to have interchangeable reeds and heddles. Both are quiet looms and can fold up against a wall when not weaving. The old loom has more beautiful wood grain than the new one. Both make me happy and can weave heavy rugs to fine cotton.
I was gifted a hand made 18th century floor loom a couple of years ago. It is a 4 shaft counter balance, solid red oak, hand forged paul and ratchet, long handle break release. The back beam is like a tree trunk. But the kicker is it's reed is hand made of real reeds. It is beautiful. And quirky. I also have beater fell line drift and it has a problem with skipping threads. But I love her. I also have a 1960's LeClerc Aristat I am fixing up and a new 8 shaft baby wolf. Each loom does have it's own personality. I love them all.
Thank you for sharing your restoration of this loom. I found your video while taking the first steps of scrubbing down a twin to your loom that was aged with craft paint. I recognized the finishing product you used and immediately made a trip to buy a can. then I committed myself to a full restoration that I am just finishing up. It glows!
I bought a standard Schacht which was built in 1986 or 1987. I have replaced the brake, shafts, and lams. It took me several years before I realized that I needed to replace the parts. I was a new weaver and didn't realize many problems were related to a loom with worn out parts. So I have learned to take the loom apart. Schacht has been great to work with!
I restored a 1969 Fanny this past year. It was my first loom and I really wanted to understand the piece (and be confident that any errors were due to being a beginner and not the loom’s fault, hah) I dismantled the whole thing, restored the break, used wood conditioner on each part and just made sure to touch every part of the loom. As you mentioned the strings, I will say I replaced each string that connects the treadles to the shafts and have found the impact worth the cost!
I just happened upon an old Fanny loom myself, but I traveled to pick it up, which meant I got to see it still put together. The woman I purchased it from had a weighted beater on it for rugs, and the handle was at an angle towards the user on the left, which is how she said it arrived (she also purchased it second hand). I'm not sure if this if how all Fanny 1 looms are set to run, but it could explain why your left fabric weave is high, if the your beater handle is in line with the beater reed assembly.
I have a Leclerc Mira 35 wide that is over 60 years old. I bought it from a friend who is a weaver and it is in good working order. It was short of some bolts that I replaced by visiting a farm store. Some of the small metal parts are rusted and the tie up cords need to be replaced. I will be working on those things. It does have an older tension setup with a ratchet and palls at the back of the loom rather than a brake band which is fiddley and will be replaced at more expense in the future. What I like most about Leclerc looms is that new parts are available for these old looms making it cost effective to buy an old loom.
Absolutely!! These looms last so long! I've been slowly replacing bits and pieces of this old loom with newer parts... I actually just ordered new treadle cords and beater bumpers from Leclerc. So thankful that they are still making these parts!
I just got one of these a few months ago. Just got it over to my studio but still need to fiddle with a few things to get it up and running again. I have a nice fine reed as well as a medium one and coarse one for things like carpets. I also have a large 42" Counterbalance that is a large square. I need a good space for that one. It has old rusty reeds but it is complete. I have my Le Clerc Jack loom setup for my first ever large piece of fabric. I used the entire width for this piece. My main focus will be home spun linen but for now Im practicing with home spun wool.
I also have a Fanny (a Fanny 2, actually) that I got from someone who bought it in the '70's used it once and then took it apart and kept it in the basement for almost 40 years. I love it! It's a real workhorse. Still working on my first set of towels. I picked an overshot pattern because I 'm new to weaving and naturally gravitated to something insanely complex for my first project. I think I also put on enough warp to make 6 towels (which won't be 6 because I wasn't beating hard enough, or possibly made some other error, so the first one is 42" long). It's a learning experience! I've always enjoyed Taking Back Friday, but I'm also loving these Lo Meets Loom videos! It'll be great to see how your restore your loom in the summer, mine could probably use the same.
I had a Leclerc Colonial for many years, bought in 1977. That "drift" you're seeing with the harnesses is typical when the loom is empty or under low tension. It's because of the way the roller cords wind on and off. Under tension it is much less noticeable. Tom Knisely at Red Stone Glen in PA might be able to help troubleshoot. He sold me my loom and was my fixer for years when he was at The Mannings.
Hello, I am so happy to have found you and your Fanny loom! I bought one about ten years ago. It's from the 50s I believe and in amazingly good condition. Unfortunately, I became very sick shortly after learning to weave and I haven't been able to use it since. I'm trying very hard to regain my strength and life, and Fanny will be a big part of that. In the meantime, I will be devouring your videos! Thank you. P.S. I also have an antique 60" rug loom that I haven't used yet. It was handmade in the UP of Michigan.
I got my Fanny in the fall, off of Kijiji here in Ontario. It's a 45", and is from 1977. The elderly woman I purchased it from had decided she couldn't see well enough to thread the loom anymore. I had no experience at all, and bought it thanks to Rachel Smith saying it looked good. Phew, she was right, and I've had a blast with it. Last month I bought new treadle cords, new roller ties, and basically replaced any thread on the loom. It helped immensely! I adore Fanny. I hope to have many years on my sweet ol' gal. The 27" is enticing, though... must.not.collect.Fannys. LOL
I have a 40 year old Dorset Loom. It is made of cherry and 4 shafts (not jack). I bought it new and have mug rugs on it. You made me think that I may need to do a bit a check up on it to make sure it works the best it should. Great video and helpful information. Hoping to get back into weaving more in 2022.
My own Leclerc beater was not resting equally on the bumpers…there was a slight (1/2”) difference with the left side of the beater not even touching the bumper when in the resting position (close to the shafts). The reed was also reaching the fell just slightly earlier on the left of the warp compared to the right side. Yet, the beater handtree appeared to be straight. When I viewed it from the left end looking across the length of the beater handtree, it looked like the nuts were tighter on the right side making the length of the handtree move ‘out of true’ by a few degrees. So, I loosened the top nut on the right side by about three turns as if to move the right side of the handtree forward and instantly the entire width of the beater was aligned so that both sides hit the bumpers equally. Not sure if this would be the case for your loom, but it might be worth considering if you haven’t already done so. Thanks for creating such great content! You and your team do an awesome job! 🥰
I just purchased a 1950's LeClerc Fanny Loom. I'm just googling how to set it up. I have never woven anything so I'm like a fish out of water and started searching on youtube and found your channel.
@@sweetgeorgia do you have a video on how to load it? I’ve located some old manuals and I think we have it set up correct. We’re missing a few parts that we will pick up from the seller in a few weeks. But I don’t know how to load it to begin weaving.
Hi, I’m one of those crazy ladies who decided to buy a floor loom with out ever using one. I have a small ashford ridget heddle loom. It’s about 12 inch. So I love weaving, only done a few small projects. So I decided to jump into the deep end and I’m drowning. So I love your video on your Fanny loom, that is what I got used from a friend. Mine is a fanny456812, same year as yours. I have cleaned it up as it was dusty and packet away fro a few years. I have managed to get it all together except for the spring break on the front beam. I fought with getting that part on for 2 hours. It’s on but it seems like something is not right. Looks like the very old drawn illustration. But the cord to the wood level on the ground does not do anything. Could you do a review on yours how that is supposed to work and what it looks like on yours? Or if you already have done a video that has that part in it, could you please let me know which one it is. Please and thank you. Natalie MacDonald
I loved this video, thank you. I too have a Leclerc Fanny loom, likely from the early fifties. I bought it about four years ago and I am learning to weave on it. It is certainly a good solid loom. I too was having issues with my shed. When I carefully examined the strings that tie up the treadles I found the lengths were slightly different. By re-tying the knots it corrected the issue easily. Like you I would also like to refinish my loom as mine has some water spots on it. I will join you in refinishing my loom and share the learning. Thanks Felecia!
I have a LeClerc "M" series which is the predecessor of the Mira - the logos on it date it to have been built sometime between 1926-1945. There are no bells or whistles, no fancy anythings, but that's ok, it's helping me learn.. This is my first floor loom, and weaving is fairly new to me. The process of taking this beautiful piece of history apart, cleaning her up and trying to bring her back to life has been most satisfying. I've learned so much and still have a million questions. For example, is it ok that the harnesses just float around like they do, or, what if all 4 harnesses aren't hanging evenly in the neutral position; will the loom burst into flames and your warp fly into shreds? Having more videos about fixing up an old loom would be most helpful to me, especially an old counterbalance!
Love that!! Yes, taking a beautiful piece of history apart and bringing it back to life... it's such a wonderfully feeling! For sure, the counterbalance looms have found a place in my heart, especially because they are super simple and not fancy. Just solid workhorses. Thanks for watching!
In answer to your question about the harnesses - in my experience it only matters if it affects your shed, for instance if you accidentally shorten the cord on one side. Yes, I did that, took me ages to figure out what went wrong. The rest of the time the four shafts seem quite happy just floating.
I was gifted from my Aunt her 1940's Gallinger Four Harness counterbalance loom. I am reading The Joy of Hand Weaving by Osma Gallinger Tod and next will be Learning to Weave by Deborah Chandler, then Weaving A handbook of the fiber art by Shirley E. Held. I have to get the loom apart to bring it into the house and set it up. Unfortunately she did not have any equipment to gift me with it such as the shuttle, lease sticks, s hook, threading hook, warp sticks or stick shuttles so I have to replace them all. She got it from a school in Oklahoma. I brought it back to Michigan which is where it is from. I am really looking forward to learning how to weave. I do have any recommendations for a beginner? I love watching your videos and I am learning so much form your channel and other weaving channels .
Hi Felicia! You were asking what wood treatment you could use on your lovely Fanny loom. I bought a 1987 Oxaback Ulla Cyrus loom a couple of years ago, which is a big Swedish floor loom, and it needed stripping and retreating. Instead of the Danish oil my Guild friends suggested, I used a product called Osmo. I am in England so I don’t know if you can get it in Canada, but if you can, I heartily recommend it. I got the version with white pigment in (Natural, it is called, I think) to make sure that the pine of the loom doesn’t go darker with treatment. My loom looks great! Good luck with your refurbishment and I hope you get the diagonal fell sorted out too. Happy weaving x
hello Karen! great recommendation! i used danish oil when restoring one of my looms. it worked for my specific situation but for my next loom restoration i will be using Osmo products. we can get them here in Canada from Lee Valley Tools.
I bought a used loom a few years back. I haven't actually gotten around to finishing assembly but I know mine has a few issues. All the structural pieces seem fine but I think I need to replace the brake. I have woven on a floor loom before so not a complete beginner but I don't have a lot of experience with floor looms so one reason I haven't assembled and started using this is a bit of intimidation and not fully confident in the "I know what I'm doing" category. I'm fairly certain my loom is a Leclerc Artisat but it didn't come with any documentation which also makes it a bit interesting to assemble and use. One of my goals for this year is to get my craft space tidied up so I can actually assemble and use the loom.
I bought a Schact 4 shaft with a bunch of accessories from a friend of my sister's. Rented a van to drive the 4 hours to puck it up. I'm excited to get to watch you learn yours! I've had one basic class and am in process of getting my 'loom room' organized. So looking forward to my first project on it. I'm so new to weaving I don't know what I don't know! If you know what I mean😄 love your videos! Hope to visit your school one day. I live in Idaho
I learned to weave on a guild’s baby wolf. Loved it. A member gave me an old four shaft table loom. Has some quirks, but I need to get it back out and look at it the way you have the Fanny! Thanks for the encouragement.
I enjoyed your Old Loom story today! I bought a 25 year old 4-shaft Harrisville 36” T6 this past summer on a trip up to Oregon. I, like your friend, was upgrading from a rigid heddle. I went over to the sellers home and disassembled it myself, organized the parts, and carted it home in the Yakima box on our car. It was a few-months-long project to refinish each piece of maple, which had aged to that orange-y color…and I wanted it back to that fresh, blond color. I questioned my decision to refinish it a few times because it took forever to do. 2 sanding grits and 3 coats of non-yellowing satin polycrylic with sanding between coats on 80+ pieces of wood! But it turned out beautifully, so it was worth the effort. Just know that it’s a Big Project! Luckily, I didn’t have any alignment problems like you’re experiencing. It sits in my family room and I’m having a great time on my weaving journey. I’m working my way through Jane Stafford’s weaving school. Thanks for your great channel!
Thank you for this topic! Your 27" is so cute!!!! My first floor loom is a series F and it's been amazing to tinker with. I'm sure you have also poked around on the Camilla Valley Farms site - did you see the description of the direction the roller cords should be wrapped? They should mirror each other. I found several diagrams but the best one is for the series F, on p. 17 of the "Assembly Manual (updated)." This helps the harnesses hang straight. Your photo on the blog looks like one of the cords is wrapped wrong but not seeing the other end it's hard to tell and maybe you've already adjusted that. Have fun!!
OH, my goodness...this is my life right now! In December, I acquired a vintage Leclerc 45" F-series counterbalance loom, most likely dated from the early 1950's - so a 70-year-old loom! It needs a fair amount of cleaning (goodbye spider egg sacs!) and restoration work (hello new aprons!). I have already started keeping a detailed spreadsheet of all the things that need to be replaced on it, especially the rusted tacks, screws, and cords. It only has 2 shafts and 2 lamms, but could technically function as is. In addition, I learned that I will probably need to replace the brake system and add a shed regulator. I'm really glad you mentioned something about the beater not beating square - mine seems to wobble quite a bit, and I haven't even got a warp on it at all. Did I mention that I have *never* woven anything in my life? 🙄There's nothing like diving into the deep end of a new craft! 😁I am already a super happy student in the School of Sweet Georgia, and I am excited about taking some weaving courses! :-) I've also studied your assembly of the Mira loom several times to understand how things go together. I would be so immensely grateful if you could make videos of your restoration process: what options there are for "deep cleaning" and re-finishing the wood. You could even have a "Loom Restoration Along" for anyone else needing to do a bit of restoration on their loom! (Hint, hint...) I think that would be such an incredible learning experience for anyone who is weaving, or who has a vintage loom that they'd like to use. I also acquired a handmade, "historic" table loom, that goes back to the tradition of handweaving in Kentucky. I expect I will adopt her sister, too, so I'll have twin table looms! Thank you for sharing all the weaving you're doing - it's an inspiration to really give these old tools new life and more years of making beautiful things!
For the treadle cords you can twist the cords around the pegs on the peddles to get them to open an even shed. Good luck. as for the tensol heddles someone told me that changing the metal heddles out changes the balance of the loom I don't know if that iss still true but Leclerc does have a help line of sorts maybe you can try them and they do have English speakers. My nightmare of a loom purchase was a 60" 16 harness Leclerc. Could never get it balanced even enough to thread it. Although there were a few moves which didn't help my husband said to get rid of it. I donated it to a church group in Africa with a video for them to see and I did label everything clearly for them!! last resort and didn't get any money for it but hope the village can figure it out and hopefully make a living with it!!
I bought a mid century Lervad countermarche off ebay at the start of the first lockdown and it has worked like a dream for me. It is my first floor loom and does need a little bit of work to get it looking nice, but the frame is nice and square and the wood is in great condition, just a tad dirty in places! I've added some storage to it so I don't have to feel so bad about taking up so much of our apartment. I currently need to find a better way of winding a warp right now. My disabilities mean that I struggle a lot with that so I am hoping to get everything I need for sectional warping, possibly with a warping wheel so I don't have to buy quite so many cones of yarn.
Weaving Wednesdays…love it! A few years ago I bought a 45” used Fanny in pieces from a lovely woman in Victoria. It was in great condition but I replaced all of the cords (rollers and treadles) and that was a big improvement. I think it will help with your shafts being on an angle and definitely your shed issues. I also replaced the long metal rods on both beams as they were slightly curved. Bought them at Lowes. His might help with your uneven fell line? Looking forward to seeing how you refinish the loom.
Just yesterday I received my inherited Le Clerc Artisat IV. Got it set up. It desperately needed cleaning, which I did. And discovered that the treadles didn't come with the loom! So the hunt is on to see if they are still at the other house, or if I need to figure out something else. So no idea how the loom performs functionally, yet.
Congratulations on your new old loom!! I would love to find a good deal on an old loom in good condition one of these years. I've done a little weaving on a rigid heddle loom. But I've known from the beginning that what I really want is a floor loom, or at least a floor like loom. A floor loom isn't in my budget right now. But I was just recently able to order a Leclerc Dorothy table loom, which does have an optional stand with treddle kit available for it. I'm hoping to be able to get that treddle kit soon. I do check Craig's List, etc., occasionally for looms in my area.
Oh my goodness Felicia. I have no idea if my comments have made this video happen, hahah I would like to think so, but I am all about what you are doing here. I have a 1984 FANNY that I am trying to buy from Nova Scotia and like you it is the logistics of getting here but comes with everything I would ever need...and then I think maybe new is the way as I don't have any support here in NB with any guilds or friends with floor looms. But this was so good to watch. Thank you.
I wanted to preserve the patina of my 1947 M loom. It is beautiful showing her many years of use and not destroying her character. Sorry, I almost see it as a sin to try and make it look like a new loom. IMHO. Did you even consider asking Leclerc how they suggest finishing the loom?
I was so excited for this video. My cousin gifted me a floor loom the same brand as the one shown. The one I have looks bigger but maybe not. I have not be able to use it yet because I am very much a beginner. I love your knowledge and presentation style.
i soooo wish i could have the space to have even this small loom. i do have a 2 shaft table loom, a 15 inch peacock loom I call birdie, and I really don't have the space to work on it. birdie fits nicely on a shelf.
Loved listening to this episode! I have a new to me old loom, a 1937 Mira. Considering the age it is in really good condition but it needs some TLC. It would be so helpful if you shared your restoration process online! There are so many conflicting opinions and I am worried I will end of ruining my loom. Thank you!
Horray, you found an old Fanny! Does she have an endearing old name? I found mine in pieces in an old barn in Florida, and I call my dear old girl, Flora. Would you help me with something regarding the tie-up of the bottom petals. My original configuration had a unique way that the ties were done, and in my eagerness to renovate, I simply replaced the cords, without regard to the nice tie up. The original cords looked like the ties enabled easy relocation of the ties to the petals and easy relocation of the petals to the heddles. Wish I’d taken a picture. I see that you have your petals have the simple tie-up. In your renovation research, would you let me know if you find instructions on how to make the additional knots, that facilitate reordering the petals to the heddles? Thank you!
I have a 45" fanny it also beats crooked I found that putting a shim under one side of the foot at the back solved this temporarily for me until I can figure it out properly but for now it is beating a straight line
Are the cords holding up your frames to the lifts wrapped in opposite directions from each other, on the same frame/brace. The left and right should be mirrored. If they are not this can account for the diagonal lift.
How sturdy do you find the Fanny vs your Mira? I have an old Mira, and Iwould really like to swap it for a Fanny - for the space saving when not using it… Will I be missing the sturdiness of the Mira? Do you see a big difference between the two?
Hi Lauraline! I think the Mira feels more sturdy and solid, but it could be a lot of reasons, like it's newer and has the box frame. The Fanny is also sturdy and can hold a lot of tension on the warp. Unless you are definitely going to be weaving big, heavy-duty rugs all the time, I think the Fanny would be really great for most everything! And if you get the space-saving benefit, then it might be all around a better fit. :)
I have a 60 in fanny loom. I find that my heddles are uneven when I press on the treddles. Not sure how to fix that. It's probably why my shed is uneven.
OH interesting! I believe those larger dowels on the ends of the roller bar helps change the shed more easily. If you can imagine turning a larger roller vs a smaller roller, it would take less movement using a larger roller to open the shed. It gives you more mechanical advantage, I believe.
Congratulations on your Fanny! I have been restoring, weaving on and reselling second hand looms since 2003. The first thing I do is a good scrub down. I don't refinish the looms, because like us as we get older we have wrinkles, scars, etc and it adds character to us and the loom. Plus, I didn't have the time, I am too busy buying looms, wanting more looms or weaving, quilting, spinning, crocheting, sewing, sailing.......
My first suggestion to anyone restoring a loom is to scrub it down and wear a mask, and gloves. The last floor loom I purchased was a 1980s 45 inch Mira. It wasn't until I got her home that the loom was covered with mold, especially in parts that were hard to see. I scrub with a soap called Sunlight bar soap. It will remove anything and everything even paint and dyes from dyeing warps on the loom. I did not wear a mask and became very ill from cleaning this loom. This loom sides were so dirty, the bubbles were black that I took the sides outside to hose it down. I tried it well, brought it inside. This purchase actually has stopped my buying old second hand looms. After the loom wood is dry, I use a wood wax, my favourite being the Majacraft spinning wheel wax, it leaves the wood glowing. My cherry Mighty wolf and cherry pup just glow after a treatment. You can use whatever is available that you like in your country. Many use Howards feed and wax but it is not available where I live.
Back to restoration. Due to age, dirt, and molds hide everywhere, I change out all cords. This includes, roller, treadle and tie up cords. I replaced all the roller cords on the Mira. If the aprons are ok or if the outer part is only old, damaged or dirty, they can be removed, wash or old parts cut away. I also wash and scrub heddles, metal or texsolv. Texsolv are easy, I put them in a lingerie bag and in the washing machine they go. String heddles can also be washed. Metal heddles get scrubbed and soaked. Reeds get a cleaning, but if very rusty get replaced,
Examine all metal parts, brake, pawls and ratchets, etc. I clean off rust, most rust will easily wipe away with a scour sponge. I don't use heavy chemicals on rust. Minor rust spots that are cosmetic, are like the age spots we humans get. ;) I will replace tension brake wire if it is rusty, sometimes these old looms need a brake upgrade, the upgrade makes weaving easier. If screws, washers, etc are very rusty, they get replaced. If a bolt or two are missing, I replace them, If you replace most of them, whether needed or not, it makes the loom look nicer, like getting your nails painted.
Wood cracks. I fill with a syringe filled with good wood glue then clamp. Rough parts, dings, etc I sand down to make smooth then use my wax to protect the bare spot.
Your uneven fell sounds like it was caused from the missing bumpers on the beater. I replace old squashed down bumpers on the loom.
I have a question about your new Mira II. Why do you have the bottom beater batten reversed with the shuttle race rear facing? The shuttle race should be on the front. CB looms don't need them and I was surprised one came on my brand new Mira II.
I think we have the same friend who ordered the 27 inch Mira. Yes, Leclerc will custom make one, but the price is the same as the 36". They cut down the parts.
The 45 inch Mira I restored is long gone as it was too wide to fit in my studio. I can't thank you enough for making videos about your Mira II. You helped me decide that I wanted a sturdy CB loom. My favourite weaves are home textiles and fabric for clothing. I rarely weave on more than 4 shafts. I prefer colour and texture over patterning. The 36 inch, like your 27 inch Fanny is the perfect loom for the space in my small studio, to accompany my 8 shaft cherry Mighty Wolf and my 16 shaft Harris UK table loom for when I want to weave more than 4 shafts.
I recently purchased from a friend and it was clean, a 1980 8 shaft 16 inch Leclerc Dorothy. What a sweet loom! She is old, she is having issues, old pawls and ratchets, cracking wood, even some warping. I found two of the metal arms bent on the second castle which interferes with the shafts staying up. The castles need to be taken apart and issues repaired. I have added a second back beam to her which accepts saori prewound warps. I am undecided as to replace items like brakes, handles, get the beater batten with a race, replace bumpers or just buy a new 4 shaft Dorothy and use the Castles to make her a 12 shaft. A third new castle will cost a little bit over half the cost of a new Dorothy. I live in Europe so taxes are higher. Decisions decisions. I will say I LOVE my Dorothy.
This is exactly the type of information I need. I've just retired and I've been eyeing a 45 inch floor loom I've had for at least 30 years. I also bought it used. To make space in my house, its been moved and disassembled.
Now I'm pondering putting it all back together. Can I do it? I feel encouraged that perhaps I can!
Love this info!! Thank you for taking the time to share it all!
I have a Sievers 4 shaft collapsible floor loom from the early 1970’s. A friend who knew that I like sewing/knitting etc talked me into buying it (along with an Ashford spinning wheel) after his wife passed. I took a learn to weave class on Washington Island where Siever’s School of fiber arts is located. I made a table runner for each of his daughter’s when they got married. They both appreciated the gift that was created on their mother’s loom. It’s been a few years since I’ve played with it. Being an RN working hard these past couple of years has worn me down but listening to you has put a spark back in me!
@@cherylsimpson8983 turns out, my beater was beating crooked because one of the pads underneath the loom was missing. When I restored the loom, I took the whole thing apart and discovered the missing piece. Once I replaced it, the loom beats perfectly square now!
Excited to hear that you have a Fanny loom as well. They are wonderful to weave on. Such beautiful tools.
Just got my used Mira loom off Kijiji this month. I think it was made about the same time I was (1967). I got the instructions on how to put it all together off Camilla Valley Farms LeClerc old instructions on their website. I love that LeClerc still makes parts for their older looms. I am upgrading the loom to have all the bells and whistles that the Mira II has. My first time weaving. I love SweetGeorgia.! Thank you for having this forum. I have gone back to school and am a textiles major in Craft and Design at Sheridan College. I am in my second year and we are starting weaving this term. After all these years of watching u-tube videos about weaving, I am going to get to weave with my own little hands. I like the overshot pattern you are working on.
The comments here have been entertaining. Looking forward to seeing what you do to get this loom working for you. First loom I rescued was a 1970s BabyWolf that needed degunking in the heddle frame and lamms chase and replacement of the cords and some nuts and bolts. That loom taught me much and has moved on to teach someone else. Then while I was waiting on my new Macomber I had the chance to rescue a 1958 Macomber that had been stored in a barn with pigeons. It needed stripping of all wood and metal pieces and some serious repair as well as replacement of all fabrics, strings, heddles, and bumpers. Since I was already dealing with Macomber it was convenient to get these. There is a Ravelry Macomber group that was very helpful. Now I'm down to two floor looms that are both 40" Macombers, one with 4 shafts the other 16. Nice to have interchangeable reeds and heddles. Both are quiet looms and can fold up against a wall when not weaving. The old loom has more beautiful wood grain than the new one. Both make me happy and can weave heavy rugs to fine cotton.
I was gifted a hand made 18th century floor loom a couple of years ago. It is a 4 shaft counter balance, solid red oak, hand forged paul and ratchet, long handle break release. The back beam is like a tree trunk. But the kicker is it's reed is hand made of real reeds. It is beautiful. And quirky. I also have beater fell line drift and it has a problem with skipping threads. But I love her. I also have a 1960's LeClerc Aristat I am fixing up and a new 8 shaft baby wolf. Each loom does have it's own personality. I love them all.
Thank you for sharing your restoration of this loom. I found your video while taking the first steps of scrubbing down a twin to your loom that was aged with craft paint. I recognized the finishing product you used and immediately made a trip to buy a can. then I committed myself to a full restoration that I am just finishing up. It glows!
What is that finishing product if you don't mind?
I'd like to second Daniel's request, please 🙏
@@danieledlefsen940 Osmo.
@@TheQwuilleran Osmo
I bought a standard Schacht which was built in 1986 or 1987. I have replaced the brake, shafts, and lams. It took me several years before I realized that I needed to replace the parts. I was a new weaver and didn't realize many problems were related to a loom with worn out parts. So I have learned to take the loom apart. Schacht has been great to work with!
I restored a 1969 Fanny this past year. It was my first loom and I really wanted to understand the piece (and be confident that any errors were due to being a beginner and not the loom’s fault, hah) I dismantled the whole thing, restored the break, used wood conditioner on each part and just made sure to touch every part of the loom. As you mentioned the strings, I will say I replaced each string that connects the treadles to the shafts and have found the impact worth the cost!
I just happened upon an old Fanny loom myself, but I traveled to pick it up, which meant I got to see it still put together. The woman I purchased it from had a weighted beater on it for rugs, and the handle was at an angle towards the user on the left, which is how she said it arrived (she also purchased it second hand). I'm not sure if this if how all Fanny 1 looms are set to run, but it could explain why your left fabric weave is high, if the your beater handle is in line with the beater reed assembly.
I have a Leclerc Mira 35 wide that is over 60 years old. I bought it from a friend who is a weaver and it is in good working order. It was short of some bolts that I replaced by visiting a farm store. Some of the small metal parts are rusted and the tie up cords need to be replaced. I will be working on those things. It does have an older tension setup with a ratchet and palls at the back of the loom rather than a brake band which is fiddley and will be replaced at more expense in the future. What I like most about Leclerc looms is that new parts are available for these old looms making it cost effective to buy an old loom.
Absolutely!! These looms last so long! I've been slowly replacing bits and pieces of this old loom with newer parts... I actually just ordered new treadle cords and beater bumpers from Leclerc. So thankful that they are still making these parts!
I just got one of these a few months ago. Just got it over to my studio but still need to fiddle with a few things to get it up and running again. I have a nice fine reed as well as a medium one and coarse one for things like carpets. I also have a large 42" Counterbalance that is a large square. I need a good space for that one. It has old rusty reeds but it is complete. I have my Le Clerc Jack loom setup for my first ever large piece of fabric. I used the entire width for this piece. My main focus will be home spun linen but for now Im practicing with home spun wool.
I also have a Fanny (a Fanny 2, actually) that I got from someone who bought it in the '70's used it once and then took it apart and kept it in the basement for almost 40 years. I love it! It's a real workhorse. Still working on my first set of towels. I picked an overshot pattern because I 'm new to weaving and naturally gravitated to something insanely complex for my first project. I think I also put on enough warp to make 6 towels (which won't be 6 because I wasn't beating hard enough, or possibly made some other error, so the first one is 42" long). It's a learning experience! I've always enjoyed Taking Back Friday, but I'm also loving these Lo Meets Loom videos! It'll be great to see how your restore your loom in the summer, mine could probably use the same.
That's so awesome that you picked overshot to work on first! It's so much fun and I'm sure you're learning a ton!
im in an art university taking weaving this semester. we are doing twill weave.
I had a Leclerc Colonial for many years, bought in 1977. That "drift" you're seeing with the harnesses is typical when the loom is empty or under low tension. It's because of the way the roller cords wind on and off. Under tension it is much less noticeable. Tom Knisely at Red Stone Glen in PA might be able to help troubleshoot. He sold me my loom and was my fixer for years when he was at The Mannings.
Hello, I am so happy to have found you and your Fanny loom! I bought one about ten years ago. It's from the 50s I believe and in amazingly good condition. Unfortunately, I became very sick shortly after learning to weave and I haven't been able to use it since. I'm trying very hard to regain my strength and life, and Fanny will be a big part of that. In the meantime, I will be devouring your videos! Thank you. P.S. I also have an antique 60" rug loom that I haven't used yet. It was handmade in the UP of Michigan.
Oh I’m so glad to hear about your Fanny loom too. I hope it brings you much joy and recovery! 💗
Please share about the towels!! The colour looks so great!
I got my Fanny in the fall, off of Kijiji here in Ontario. It's a 45", and is from 1977. The elderly woman I purchased it from had decided she couldn't see well enough to thread the loom anymore. I had no experience at all, and bought it thanks to Rachel Smith saying it looked good. Phew, she was right, and I've had a blast with it. Last month I bought new treadle cords, new roller ties, and basically replaced any thread on the loom. It helped immensely! I adore Fanny. I hope to have many years on my sweet ol' gal. The 27" is enticing, though... must.not.collect.Fannys. LOL
any tips for a newbie just starting out? bought a used loom and am a rookie
I have a 40 year old Dorset Loom. It is made of cherry and 4 shafts (not jack). I bought it new and have mug rugs on it. You made me think that I may need to do a bit a check up on it to make sure it works the best it should. Great video and helpful information. Hoping to get back into weaving more in 2022.
I've got a Dorset too. They're good little looms. I'm quite fond of mine.
My own Leclerc beater was not resting equally on the bumpers…there was a slight (1/2”) difference with the left side of the beater not even touching the bumper when in the resting position (close to the shafts). The reed was also reaching the fell just slightly earlier on the left of the warp compared to the right side. Yet, the beater handtree appeared to be straight. When I viewed it from the left end looking across the length of the beater handtree,
it looked like the nuts were tighter on the right side making the length of the handtree move ‘out of true’ by a few degrees. So, I loosened the top nut on the right side by about three turns as if to move the right side of the handtree forward and instantly the entire width of the beater was aligned so that both sides hit the bumpers equally. Not sure if this would be the case for your loom, but it might be worth considering if you haven’t already done so. Thanks for creating such great content! You and your team do an awesome job! 🥰
I just purchased a 1950's LeClerc Fanny Loom. I'm just googling how to set it up. I have never woven anything so I'm like a fish out of water and started searching on youtube and found your channel.
Awesome! Congrats on your new-to-you loom! Let me know if you have questions. I’m happy to help!
@@sweetgeorgia do you have a video on how to load it? I’ve located some old manuals and I think we have it set up correct. We’re missing a few parts that we will pick up from the seller in a few weeks. But I don’t know how to load it to begin weaving.
Hi, I’m one of those crazy ladies who decided to buy a floor loom with out ever using one. I have a small ashford ridget heddle loom. It’s about 12 inch. So I love weaving, only done a few small projects. So I decided to jump into the deep end and I’m drowning. So I love your video on your Fanny loom, that is what I got used from a friend. Mine is a fanny456812, same year as yours. I have cleaned it up as it was dusty and packet away fro a few years. I have managed to get it all together except for the spring break on the front beam. I fought with getting that part on for 2 hours. It’s on but it seems like something is not right. Looks like the very old drawn illustration. But the cord to the wood level on the ground does not do anything. Could you do a review on yours how that is supposed to work and what it looks like on yours? Or if you already have done a video that has that part in it, could you please let me know which one it is. Please and thank you. Natalie MacDonald
I loved this video, thank you. I too have a Leclerc Fanny loom, likely from the early fifties. I bought it about four years ago and I am learning to weave on it. It is certainly a good solid loom. I too was having issues with my shed. When I carefully examined the strings that tie up the treadles I found the lengths were slightly different. By re-tying the knots it corrected the issue easily.
Like you I would also like to refinish my loom as mine has some water spots on it. I will join you in refinishing my loom and share the learning. Thanks Felecia!
I love that you’re restoring an old loom.
I've used a wine cork for temporary bumpers... Lol the things we do...
I have a LeClerc "M" series which is the predecessor of the Mira - the logos on it date it to have been built sometime between 1926-1945. There are no bells or whistles, no fancy anythings, but that's ok, it's helping me learn.. This is my first floor loom, and weaving is fairly new to me. The process of taking this beautiful piece of history apart, cleaning her up and trying to bring her back to life has been most satisfying. I've learned so much and still have a million questions. For example, is it ok that the harnesses just float around like they do, or, what if all 4 harnesses aren't hanging evenly in the neutral position; will the loom burst into flames and your warp fly into shreds? Having more videos about fixing up an old loom would be most helpful to me, especially an old counterbalance!
Love that!! Yes, taking a beautiful piece of history apart and bringing it back to life... it's such a wonderfully feeling! For sure, the counterbalance looms have found a place in my heart, especially because they are super simple and not fancy. Just solid workhorses. Thanks for watching!
In answer to your question about the harnesses - in my experience it only matters if it affects your shed, for instance if you accidentally shorten the cord on one side. Yes, I did that, took me ages to figure out what went wrong. The rest of the time the four shafts seem quite happy just floating.
@@Ella-iw4gk Thanks Ella for the info! I'll try to pay attention to the lengths of all the cords!
I was gifted from my Aunt her 1940's Gallinger Four Harness counterbalance loom. I am reading The Joy of Hand Weaving by Osma Gallinger Tod and next will be Learning to Weave by Deborah Chandler, then Weaving A handbook of the fiber art by Shirley E. Held. I have to get the loom apart to bring it into the house and set it up. Unfortunately she did not have any equipment to gift me with it such as the shuttle, lease sticks, s hook, threading hook, warp sticks or stick shuttles so I have to replace them all. She got it from a school in Oklahoma. I brought it back to Michigan which is where it is from. I am really looking forward to learning how to weave. I do have any recommendations for a beginner? I love watching your videos and I am learning so much form your channel and other weaving channels .
I'm in love with that colourway :)
So excited to see Leclerc Fannys. That's my loom and without a local teacher, I rely so much on the SOS and these videos!
That's awesome! The Fanny is such a great loom! Happy to share more of what I'm weaving with it!
Hi Felicia! You were asking what wood treatment you could use on your lovely Fanny loom. I bought a 1987 Oxaback Ulla Cyrus loom a couple of years ago, which is a big Swedish floor loom, and it needed stripping and retreating. Instead of the Danish oil my Guild friends suggested, I used a product called Osmo. I am in England so I don’t know if you can get it in Canada, but if you can, I heartily recommend it. I got the version with white pigment in (Natural, it is called, I think) to make sure that the pine of the loom doesn’t go darker with treatment. My loom looks great! Good luck with your refurbishment and I hope you get the diagonal fell sorted out too. Happy weaving x
hello Karen! great recommendation! i used danish oil when restoring one of my looms. it worked for my specific situation but for my next loom restoration i will be using Osmo products. we can get them here in Canada from Lee Valley Tools.
I bought a used loom a few years back. I haven't actually gotten around to finishing assembly but I know mine has a few issues. All the structural pieces seem fine but I think I need to replace the brake. I have woven on a floor loom before so not a complete beginner but I don't have a lot of experience with floor looms so one reason I haven't assembled and started using this is a bit of intimidation and not fully confident in the "I know what I'm doing" category. I'm fairly certain my loom is a Leclerc Artisat but it didn't come with any documentation which also makes it a bit interesting to assemble and use. One of my goals for this year is to get my craft space tidied up so I can actually assemble and use the loom.
I bought a Schact 4 shaft with a bunch of accessories from a friend of my sister's. Rented a van to drive the 4 hours to puck it up. I'm excited to get to watch you learn yours! I've had one basic class and am in process of getting my 'loom room' organized. So looking forward to my first project on it. I'm so new to weaving I don't know what I don't know! If you know what I mean😄 love your videos! Hope to visit your school one day. I live in Idaho
I learned to weave on a guild’s baby wolf. Loved it. A member gave me an old four shaft table loom. Has some quirks, but I need to get it back out and look at it the way you have the Fanny! Thanks for the encouragement.
I enjoyed your Old Loom story today! I bought a 25 year old 4-shaft Harrisville 36” T6 this past summer on a trip up to Oregon. I, like your friend, was upgrading from a rigid heddle. I went over to the sellers home and disassembled it myself, organized the parts, and carted it home in the Yakima box on our car. It was a few-months-long project to refinish each piece of maple, which had aged to that orange-y color…and I wanted it back to that fresh, blond color. I questioned my decision to refinish it a few times because it took forever to do. 2 sanding grits and 3 coats of non-yellowing satin polycrylic with sanding between coats on 80+ pieces of wood! But it turned out beautifully, so it was worth the effort. Just know that it’s a Big Project! Luckily, I didn’t have any alignment problems like you’re experiencing. It sits in my family room and I’m having a great time on my weaving journey. I’m working my way through Jane Stafford’s weaving school. Thanks for your great channel!
Thank you for this topic! Your 27" is so cute!!!! My first floor loom is a series F and it's been amazing to tinker with. I'm sure you have also poked around on the Camilla Valley Farms site - did you see the description of the direction the roller cords should be wrapped? They should mirror each other. I found several diagrams but the best one is for the series F, on p. 17 of the "Assembly Manual (updated)." This helps the harnesses hang straight. Your photo on the blog looks like one of the cords is wrapped wrong but not seeing the other end it's hard to tell and maybe you've already adjusted that. Have fun!!
Thank you! I have a brand new Mira II and no where could I find how to wrap the cords around the rollers and what direction they should be in.
OH, my goodness...this is my life right now! In December, I acquired a vintage Leclerc 45" F-series counterbalance loom, most likely dated from the early 1950's - so a 70-year-old loom! It needs a fair amount of cleaning (goodbye spider egg sacs!) and restoration work (hello new aprons!). I have already started keeping a detailed spreadsheet of all the things that need to be replaced on it, especially the rusted tacks, screws, and cords. It only has 2 shafts and 2 lamms, but could technically function as is. In addition, I learned that I will probably need to replace the brake system and add a shed regulator. I'm really glad you mentioned something about the beater not beating square - mine seems to wobble quite a bit, and I haven't even got a warp on it at all.
Did I mention that I have *never* woven anything in my life? 🙄There's nothing like diving into the deep end of a new craft! 😁I am already a super happy student in the School of Sweet Georgia, and I am excited about taking some weaving courses! :-) I've also studied your assembly of the Mira loom several times to understand how things go together.
I would be so immensely grateful if you could make videos of your restoration process: what options there are for "deep cleaning" and re-finishing the wood. You could even have a "Loom Restoration Along" for anyone else needing to do a bit of restoration on their loom! (Hint, hint...) I think that would be such an incredible learning experience for anyone who is weaving, or who has a vintage loom that they'd like to use.
I also acquired a handmade, "historic" table loom, that goes back to the tradition of handweaving in Kentucky. I expect I will adopt her sister, too, so I'll have twin table looms!
Thank you for sharing all the weaving you're doing - it's an inspiration to really give these old tools new life and more years of making beautiful things!
I'm so glad I'm not the only person who bought an old loom with ZERO weaving experience. My loom is 1950's as well. just got it yesterday.
For the treadle cords you can twist the cords around the pegs on the peddles to get them to open an even shed. Good luck. as for the tensol heddles someone told me that changing the metal heddles out changes the balance of the loom I don't know if that iss still true but Leclerc does have a help line of sorts maybe you can try them and they do have English speakers. My nightmare of a loom purchase was a 60" 16 harness Leclerc. Could never get it balanced even enough to thread it. Although there were a few moves which didn't help my husband said to get rid of it. I donated it to a church group in Africa with a video for them to see and I did label everything clearly for them!! last resort and didn't get any money for it but hope the village can figure it out and hopefully make a living with it!!
I bought a mid century Lervad countermarche off ebay at the start of the first lockdown and it has worked like a dream for me. It is my first floor loom and does need a little bit of work to get it looking nice, but the frame is nice and square and the wood is in great condition, just a tad dirty in places! I've added some storage to it so I don't have to feel so bad about taking up so much of our apartment.
I currently need to find a better way of winding a warp right now. My disabilities mean that I struggle a lot with that so I am hoping to get everything I need for sectional warping, possibly with a warping wheel so I don't have to buy quite so many cones of yarn.
Weaving Wednesdays…love it! A few years ago I bought a 45” used Fanny in pieces from a lovely woman in Victoria. It was in great condition but I replaced all of the cords (rollers and treadles) and that was a big improvement. I think it will help with your shafts being on an angle and definitely your shed issues. I also replaced the long metal rods on both beams as they were slightly curved. Bought them at Lowes. His might help with your uneven fell line? Looking forward to seeing how you refinish the loom.
Just yesterday I received my inherited Le Clerc Artisat IV. Got it set up. It desperately needed cleaning, which I did. And discovered that the treadles didn't come with the loom! So the hunt is on to see if they are still at the other house, or if I need to figure out something else. So no idea how the loom performs functionally, yet.
Congratulations on your new old loom!! I would love to find a good deal on an old loom in good condition one of these years. I've done a little weaving on a rigid heddle loom. But I've known from the beginning that what I really want is a floor loom, or at least a floor like loom. A floor loom isn't in my budget right now. But I was just recently able to order a Leclerc Dorothy table loom, which does have an optional stand with treddle kit available for it. I'm hoping to be able to get that treddle kit soon. I do check Craig's List, etc., occasionally for looms in my area.
Oh my goodness Felicia. I have no idea if my comments have made this video happen, hahah I would like to think so, but I am all about what you are doing here. I have a 1984 FANNY that I am trying to buy from Nova Scotia and like you it is the logistics of getting here but comes with everything I would ever need...and then I think maybe new is the way as I don't have any support here in NB with any guilds or friends with floor looms. But this was so good to watch. Thank you.
I wanted to preserve the patina of my 1947 M loom. It is beautiful showing her many years of use and not destroying her character. Sorry, I almost see it as a sin to try and make it look like a new loom. IMHO.
Did you even consider asking Leclerc how they suggest finishing the loom?
I was so excited for this video. My cousin gifted me a floor loom the same brand as the one shown. The one I have looks bigger but maybe not. I have not be able to use it yet because I am very much a beginner. I love your knowledge and presentation style.
i soooo wish i could have the space to have even this small loom. i do have a 2 shaft table loom, a 15 inch peacock loom I call birdie, and I really don't have the space to work on it. birdie fits nicely on a shelf.
Loved listening to this episode! I have a new to me old loom, a 1937 Mira. Considering the age it is in really good condition but it needs some TLC. It would be so helpful if you shared your restoration process online! There are so many conflicting opinions and I am worried I will end of ruining my loom. Thank you!
Loving my 36"MIra II, I am now looking for a second smaller loom. What are the measurements for the 27 inch Fanny? I have a small space to fit a loom.
Horray, you found an old Fanny! Does she have an endearing old name? I found mine in pieces in an old barn in Florida, and I call my dear old girl, Flora. Would you help me with something regarding the tie-up of the bottom petals. My original configuration had a unique way that the ties were done, and in my eagerness to renovate, I simply replaced the cords, without regard to the nice tie up. The original cords looked like the ties enabled easy relocation of the ties to the petals and easy relocation of the petals to the heddles. Wish I’d taken a picture. I see that you have your petals have the simple tie-up. In your renovation research, would you let me know if you find instructions on how to make the additional knots, that facilitate reordering the petals to the heddles? Thank you!
That photo from 2009 is so great, how has so much time passed????
I have a 45" fanny it also beats crooked I found that putting a shim under one side of the foot at the back solved this temporarily for me until I can figure it out properly but for now it is beating a straight line
I have to do the same with my 45 year old Gilmore jack loom. Works fine this way.
Are the cords holding up your frames to the lifts wrapped in opposite directions from each other, on the same frame/brace. The left and right should be mirrored. If they are not this can account for the diagonal lift.
I need a good video on warping my old Leclerc Mira Loom, any suggestions?
That loom was born the same year as me. Also, it looks like I need to move to Canada🤣
How sturdy do you find the Fanny vs your Mira? I have an old Mira, and Iwould really like to swap it for a Fanny - for the space saving when not using it… Will I be missing the sturdiness of the Mira? Do you see a big difference between the two?
Hi Lauraline! I think the Mira feels more sturdy and solid, but it could be a lot of reasons, like it's newer and has the box frame. The Fanny is also sturdy and can hold a lot of tension on the warp. Unless you are definitely going to be weaving big, heavy-duty rugs all the time, I think the Fanny would be really great for most everything! And if you get the space-saving benefit, then it might be all around a better fit. :)
I have a 60 in fanny loom.
I find that my heddles are uneven when I press on the treddles.
Not sure how to fix that. It's probably why my shed is uneven.
I have this loom as well, but it doesn't have the short fatter dowels on the top roller bar . What is the purpose of the thicker dowel?
OH interesting! I believe those larger dowels on the ends of the roller bar helps change the shed more easily. If you can imagine turning a larger roller vs a smaller roller, it would take less movement using a larger roller to open the shed. It gives you more mechanical advantage, I believe.
@@sweetgeorgia thank you. I will have to see what I can do
Can I get access to your overshot pattern
Thanks Janet, the draft is JS 123 from Marguerite Davidson's book and is also printed in the "Mastering Weave Structures" book by Sharon Alderman. :)
Thanks!!!