How to Fix Curved Edges in Weaving

You've put your heart into a beautiful weaving project. The colours sing, the pattern pops, but then you look at the edges, or selvages, and they curve in or wave out like they've got a mind of their own. It's a common frustration for weavers of all levels. Uneven or curved edges can sneak into your work and detract from an otherwise stunning piece.

Here's the good news: wonky selvages are not a sign of failure. They simply indicate that something in your setup or technique needs adjusting. Once you understand what causes them, they are absolutely fixable. In this article, we'll explore the main reasons behind wavy or distorted edges and offer practical, confidence-boosting solutions. From managing tension and selecting the right yarn to improving your technique and choosing the best tools, we'll help you achieve cleaner, straighter edges in every project.

The Cause of Uneven Selvages

Understanding the reasons behind uneven selvages is the first step toward solving the issue. Here are the most common causes:

• Uneven Tension: Inconsistent tension across the warp can cause the fabric to pull in at the sides or bulge in unexpected places.
• Inappropriate Yarn Choices: Yarn that is too stretchy or too textured for the project can affect how evenly the weft packs in.
• Technique Errors: Pulling the weft too tightly, winding bobbins unevenly, or incorrect shuttle technique can lead to distortion.

Fortunately, each of these issues can be addressed with the right approach.

How to Prevent Uneven Selvages

The best way to avoid curved edges is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here's how.

Managing Tension

Consistent warp tension is essential to producing smooth, even edges.

• It starts with the warp: A poorly wound warp will only lead to frustration and inconsistencies on the loom. It is important to take your time and get this step right so that you set yourself up for weaving success.
• Check your loom setup: Whether you're using an Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom or a floor loom like the Louet David 3, make sure your warp tension is even from the start. Check visually and tactilely. Adjust your tie on as necessary to ensure evenness across the width of your project.
• Use warp thread weights: If certain warp threads are looser than others, warp thread weights can help balance them out during weaving.
• Try a weaving temple: Weaving temples can help maintain a consistent fabric width on the loom, helping to prevent draw-in. Advance these frequently.

The shuttle you use also plays a role. Leclerc Boat Shuttles are designed to deliver the weft smoothly and evenly, supporting consistent tension throughout the weave.

Choosing the Right Yarn

Selecting the right yarn is crucial in avoiding edge distortion.

• Avoid overly elastic yarns for the warp unless you are experienced in managing stretch.
• Match the sett to your yarn: A yarn that is too thick or thin for your chosen sett can bunch up or pull at the edges.
• Explore our curated collection of quality yarns. Our yarn selection for weaving includes fibres suited to every loom and project.

Improving Weaving Technique

Curved edges are often a result of how the shuttle and beat are handled.

• Don't pull too hard on the weft: This is one of the most common causes of inward-curving edges. Let the shuttle glide naturally and beat gently.
• Use the right angle: When placing the weft, form a gentle diagonal or bubble shape to allow the yarn to settle evenly.
• Beat on an open shed: Weft yarns benefit from being beaten on an open shed as it allows the yarn to settle into the shed naturally, leading to better selvages and reduced draw-in.
• Wind your bobbins properly: An unevenly wound bobbin can cause inconsistent weft tension. Use a bobbin winder for smooth, balanced bobbins.

Ready to refine your tools? The Schacht 15" End Feed Shuttle provides greater tension control and more precise weft delivery.

Fixing Curved Selvages

If you have already noticed some waviness or excessive draw-in in your weaving, it is not too late to fix it. Here are some ways to address it mid-project.

Adjusting Your Warp

Even while you are weaving, there are ways to realign your work.

• Recheck your tension: Use warp thread weights to bring loose threads back into balance.
• Add a temple: This can help reduce further distortion and guide the fabric back to the intended width.
• Modify your beat and shuttle handling: Adjusting how you throw the shuttle or beat the weft can help correct inconsistencies.
• Add a weighted selvage: This could be as simple as weighting your edge threads or adding a sturdier thread or fishing line alongside your edge threads, but weighted separately, which can be removed after weaving.

Both the Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom and the Louet David 3 are looms that support these adjustments with ease and responsiveness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some additional frequent errors and how to address them:

• Pulling the weft too tight: Relax your grip and use a diagonal throw.
• Skipping warp threads: Check your threading and shed frequently to avoid missed threads.
• Uneven beat: Maintain a steady rhythm and avoid overpacking the weft.
• Overfilled bobbins: Wind bobbins evenly to prevent jerky or tight weft delivery.

Building Skill and Confidence

Weaving is a skill that improves with time and practice. Curved edges can feel frustrating at first, but they are simply part of the learning process.

Review and Improve Your Weaving

After completing each project, take a moment to reflect on your progress. Ask yourself:

• Were your edges more even and straight?
• Did your tension remain consistent throughout?
• Did changes to your tools or techniques lead to noticeable improvements?

Keeping a weaving journal or taking progress photos can help you see how far you've come and identify areas for growth. These small reflections will support your development and make each new piece even stronger than the last.

Tools and Resources for Advanced Weaving

If you are looking to improve your weaving experience, consider investing in advanced tools:

• The David 3 Louet offers superb control and precision, ideal for more complex weaving.
• The Schacht 15” End Feed Shuttle supports clean edges and better tension with every pass.
• Pair these with our bobbin winding tools for a smooth and consistent weaving process.

Weaving Forward One Clean Edge at a Time

Uneven selvages may be a common challenge, but they do not have to define your weaving. With the proper techniques, thoughtful adjustments, and quality tools, you can take control of your selvages and produce beautifully balanced, polished textiles.

So, whether you are weaving a scarf, a wall hanging, or yardage for garments, always remember that neat edges reflect your care and mindfulness with your work. Apply these tips, take your time, and allow yourself to grow through practice and experimentation.

Ready to improve your results? Visit Thread Collective's full range of looms, shuttles, and weaving accessories to support every stage of your creative journey!