Viking weave, also known as tablet weaving, is a traditional textile craft practiced by the Vikings and other ancient cultures. It involves using small, rectangular tablets to create intricate patterns in woven fabric.
How Viking Weave Works
- The Tablets: These tablets are made from wood, bone, or other materials and have grooves or slots along their edges.
- Warp Threads: The warp threads (the lengthwise threads) are strung through the tablets, creating a series of loops.
- Weaving: By turning the tablets, the warp threads are interlaced with the weft thread (the crosswise thread) to create the fabric.
Benefits of Viking Weave
- Versatility: It can be used to create a variety of fabrics, including belts, straps, clothing, and tapestries.
- Durability: Viking weave fabrics are known for their strength and resilience.
- Intricate Patterns: The tablets allow for complex and beautiful patterns to be woven.
Examples of Viking Weave
- The Oseberg Tapestry: Found in the Oseberg burial ship in Norway, this tapestry is a famous example of Viking weave.
- Viking Belts: These belts were often decorated with intricate patterns using tablet weaving.
Practical Insights
- Modern Applications: Today, Viking weave is still practiced as a hobby and art form.
- Tools and Resources: There are numerous resources available for those interested in learning about and practicing Viking weave, including books, websites, and online communities.
