A Question for Weavers. About Weaving!

**KD Burke** · 7th May 18, 08:32 AM

So, I'm trying to gain some insight into the economics of weaving in the pre-industrial age. It seems to me that at approximately 50 threads to an inch and 27 inches wide, warping a loom would be an extremely time consuming task.

How much time would an experienced weaver typically spend warping a loom for a run of tartan cloth?

How much time to weave one yard when the actual weaving began?

Thanks!

**figheadair** · 7th May 18, 11:28 AM

I warp 1140 ends, it takes me a day to calculate, warp and dress the loom. Depending on the complexity of the pattern, I can weave 4-8 yards a day using a single-box flying shuttle loom.

**KD Burke** · 8th May 18, 03:24 AM

Thank you! That's very helpful to me.

**figheadair** · 8th May 18, 05:44 AM

Originally Posted by figheadair

I warp 1140 ends, it takes me a day to calculate, warp and dress the loom. Depending on the complexity of the pattern, I can weave 4-8 yards a day using a single-box flying shuttle loom.

I should have added that a 3 day turn around for a kilt length is therefore not unreasonable for a fast weaver using a flying shuttle loom. That's a couple of hours work at most for a modern power loom which is why one can't buy hand-woven cloth in the shops nowadays.

**KD Burke** · 8th May 18, 10:52 AM

I always find it instructive to put things into economic terms.

By your example, assuming a labor rate of $30 per hour, the labor alone would be valued at $720. Add in the cost of material, (and I admit I have no idea what wool thread costs) and I'd not be surprised to see the cost exceed $1000. If there is a retailer involved, the price would increase again.

Now my point is that, while the figures involved may have been smaller, the value, in absolute terms, of that fabric in pre-industrial times would have been comparable. A length of tartan fabric is now and always has been a significant investment. Is it any wonder then that plaids were so often repaired and repurposed.

**gealach** · 8th May 18, 10:58 AM

I think (but don't know) you would have to correct your assumption to something more on the lines of 13-20$ per hour.

**KD Burke** · 8th May 18, 11:17 AM

Pick any reasonable figure for skilled labor that you like. Personally, I think $30/hour is a little conservative for skilled specialist labor with unique tools.

The point I'm making is that a kilt length of fabric is worth the equivalent of 3 days work by a skilled and experienced weaver. That economic value is not, and never has been, trivial.