Use Floating selvages when the weave structure does not provide a smooth interlacement at the edges of the weaving. Twills are a common weave structure that normally benefit from having a floating selvages.
How it works:
Because the threads are not in heddles, they do not move up and down with the shafts.
They stay centered and act as stationary edge threads.
The shuttle goes over one floating selvage and under the other, locking the weft at the edge.
The weight should be adjusted to provide the correct amount of tension during weaving.
Method 1: Using Existing Warp Ends
Take the first and last warp ends out of their heddles. Alternatively, prepare two extra warp ends that in the appropriate color (same as the first and last warp end) that will not be threaded.
Sley these warp ends through the reed normally.
Tie them onto the front apron bar with the rest of the warp.
At the back of the loom, add a small weight to each of these warp ends
Method 2: Add Separate Weighted Warp Ends
For the right and left of the warp, in the appropriate color:
Take a separate length of warp thread
Wrap around a thread weight.
Bring the thread through the reed at the outer dent.
Tie the other end to the front apron bar.
Let the weight hang off the back, releasing more thread as needed while weaving.
