Page 62 - Shawl Weaving Artisan - TT

Textile & Handloom Related Theory for Exercise 1.3.34
Shawl Weaving Artisan - Power Looms and Handlooms

Reeds used in weaving

Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
• state what is reed
• determine the functions of the reed
• list the types of reeds used in weaving.

Introduction: A reed is a critical component in a loom, 2 Advantages: Pitch bound steel reeds are long-lasting,
used in weaving to separate and space the warp threads easy to clean, and can withstand high tensions. They
evenly. It’s essentially a comb-like structure with evenly are also relatively inexpensive compared to other
spaced slots, known as “dents,” that guide the warp types of steel reeds.
threads. 3 Disadvantages: Pitch bound steel reeds can be
Functions of a reed heavy and the pitch coating may melt or become
brittle over time, requiring replacement.
1 Separates warp threads: The reed separates the
warp threads, maintaining an equal distance between All metal reeds
them. This ensures that the fabric is woven evenly.
Metal reeds are made from metal wires or strips that
2 Spaces warp threads: The reed spaces the warp are welded or riveted together. The metal wires or strips
threads according to the desired density of the fabric. are typically made from stainless steel, carbon steel, or
aluminium.
3 Guides the shuttle: The reed guides the shuttle,
which carries the weft thread, as it passes through 1 Characteristics: All metal reeds are strong, durable,
the shed (the opening between the warp threads). and resistant to wear and tear. They are suitable for
weaving high-density fabrics, especially those that
4 Beats the weft: The reed helps to beat the weft thread require a high reed count.
into place, ensuring that it’s properly seated between
the warp threads. 2 Advantages: All metal reeds are long-lasting, easy to
Types of reeds clean, and can withstand high tensions. They are also
resistant to corrosion and can be used for weaving
1 Bamboo reed: Bamboo reeds are made from bamboo fabrics that require high hygiene standards.
strips or slats that are tied together with wire or string.
The bamboo strips are typically 1-2 inches wide and 3 Disadvantages: All metal reeds can be heavy,
1/4 inch thick. expensive, and may require special handling. They
may also produce a loud noise during weaving,
2 Characteristics: Bamboo reeds are lightweight, which can be a disadvantage in some weaving
flexible, and relatively inexpensive. They are suitable environments.
for weaving traditional or ethnic fabrics, especially 4 Stainless steel reed: Made from stainless steel wires
those that require a soft, gentle touch.
or strips, these reeds are corrosion-resistant and
3 Advantages: Bamboo reeds are eco-friendly, easy suitable for weaving fabrics that require high hygiene
to handle, and can be used for weaving delicate or standards, such as medical textiles or food packaging
intricate patterns. They are also relatively inexpensive materials.
compared to other types of reeds.
5 Plastic reed: Made from plastic strips or sheets,
4 Disadvantages: Bamboo reeds may not be durable these reeds are lightweight, flexible, and suitable for
and can break easily if not handled carefully. They weaving delicate or intricate patterns. They are also
may also require frequent replacement, especially if relatively inexpensive and easy to clean.
used for weaving dense or heavy fabrics.
6 Carbon fiber reed: Made from carbon fiber strips
Pitch bound steel reed or sheets, these reeds are lightweight, strong, and
Pitch bound steel reeds are made from steel wires that suitable for weaving high-performance fabrics, such
are bound together with a pitch or resin coating. The steel as aerospace or sports textiles.
wires are typically 0.5-1.5 mm in diameter, and the pitch Reed count and density
coating is applied to hold the wires together.
The reed count refers to the number of dents (slots) per
1 Characteristics: Pitch bound steel reeds are strong, inch or centimetre. The reed density refers to the number
durable, and resistant to wear and tear. They are of warp threads per inch or centimetre.
suitable for weaving heavy or dense fabrics, especially
those that require a high reed count.

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