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For as long as 40,000 years, people have used looped fibers to create nets, bags, sheaths, clothing and more. There are now faster ways to make things, but nothing quite like this timeless technique. Each stitch connects with what came before and what will come later. I like the way stitches link together in ways that are simple and complex at the same time, sort of like connections between people. Looping stitches may be open, even revealing, with a deceptively delicate appearance. But whether it's a fishing net or a piece of fine lace, you can cut a thread and it won't unravel. It's a technique with infinite possibilities.
I started looping more than 15 years ago. A friend gave me a pattern for a waxed linen neck pouch. Not really understanding the directions, I repeated the same mistakes over and over and like the result. In addition to those mistakes, I made many others. At one point, while stitching a looped sheath on a large gourd, I knew it would take me forever to finish so I started skipping stitches to leave large spaces, then going back to fill in some of the space. In other words, breaking the rules. This "shortcut" made a fascinating surface. I was hooked.
I started playing with lots of variations: Adding intermittent core elements to get more texture, then continuous core elements (see Fuegian Coiling). Manipulating stitch tension and placement to make raised textures. Playing with skipped-stitch patterning. Adding looping to the surface of coiled vessels. Making flat mats out of the looping and folding them into vessels. Controlling color changes. Exploring stitches with multiple intersections. Shaping more complex vessels and clothing. Doodling with thread to create "scrumble" elements. Picking up beads, one at a time, to work into the looping structure. I've barely scratched the surface.
Learn More About Looping -- Click here for more images, a few words about fibers used in looping, and reflections on the joy of quiet, contemplative handwork.
Learn About Looped Sheaths -- Click here for more images and a few words about looped sheaths and their historic uses.
Learn About Netting -- Click here to learn about fishing nets and the story of civilization.
Looping Workshop Topics
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