How to Use the Versa-Loom™

Warp Bar Set Up

Wrap thread around one end of the Warp Bar using the slot provided. Keep thread tight and secure with a knot.

Add the FIRST row of 5 beads to Warp Bar 2 and LAST row of 5 beads to Warp Bar 1. These instructions use the same color and size of beads for both Warp Bars.

Stretch thread across the center front of the Warp Bar.

Pass needle under thread.

Pull down against thread to tighten.

While keeping a tight tension wrap thread around the Warp Bar moving toward the opposite end of the Warp Bar. Wraps should be approximately 1 bead width apart (with or without beads to wrap between).

Continue until you reach the other end of the Warp Bar.

Secure thread ends (knot), be sure to keep wraps tight.

Cut thread ends, leave 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch tails.

Loom Set Up

Attach End Sections to the Spacer pieces. All pieces should fit snugly (no gaps).

Note: To separate pieces jiggle or walk them until loose. Excess strain may cause breakage.

Add Leg sections as needed. Legs can be added to one or both End Sections.

Warping the Loom

Start with about 3 yards of thread, wax or condition as needed.

Tape one end of thread to the End Section. Wrap thread around the End Section two or more times (this extra thread can be used for finishing work, adding clasps, fringe, etc.).

Thread needle onto the other end of thread.

Insert needle/thread through all beads on Warp Bar 1. Begin by entering bead 1, end by exiting bead 5.

Note: I find it easier to navigate the needle through a single bead on the Warp Bar by angling the needle through the bead. Picking up the loom may also make the process easier. Sliding the beads apart, temporarily, creates some working room for the needle. Try different methods and use what works best for you.

Tension should be firm, not loose and sagging but not too tight as guitar or piano strings.

Snug beads together on both Warp Bars.

Note: Move/slide beads apart, as needed, to make moving the needle through each bead easier.

Insert needle/thread through bead 3 of Warp Bar 2, aim needle toward bead 1 on same Warp Bar.

Insert needle/thread through bead 2 of Warp Bar 1, aim needle toward bead 1 on same Warp Bar. Keep thread taught as warping continues.

Insert needle/thread through bead 1 of Warp Bar 2, aim needle toward bead 1 on same Warp Bar.

Weaving on the Loom

Pass needle and thread underneath (below) the warp threads.

Pick up 5 beads for next row.

Slide the beads all the way down the thread and position each bead between the proper warp threads.

Using finger(s), firmly press beads UP, popping the beads into place between the appropriate warp threads. Continue to hold beads in place while using the other hand to insert the needle back through all 5 beads; aim needle UP toward the TOP of the beads, keeping this thread pass above all warp threads. This process locks the beads in place.

Slide this new row of beads next to previous row, snug/pet beads and thread to keep an even tension and to create straight rows.

Remove Beadwork from the Loom

Insert needle/thread through all 5 beads on Warp Bar 2, begin with bead 5, end by exiting bead 1. This step is required to secure the beads on Warp Bar 2 to the rest of the bead woven piece.

We are ready to remove bead woven piece from the Versa-Loom.

Using a pointed pair of scissors or seam ripper cut the straight thread running along the center front of Warp Bar 2. Wiggle until woven piece is free from Warp Bar. If threads on a Warp Bar were pierced/split you may also need to cut the wraps going around the Warp Bar.

Creating a Sample Gauge:

To create detailed patterns it may be necessary to know exactly how many rows are needed to fit within a certain length. Length is preselected when using the Versa-Loom and a SAMPLE GAUGE piece may be the best way to find out exactly how many rows you would need to fill a specific length.

Various tensions, bead sizes, and thread possibilities make it difficult to know exactly how many beads one individual would need for a specific length.

Different beads, bead sizes, manufacturers and combinations thereof are reasons that various SAMPLE pieces may be needed.

Choose the length and bead you most often use. It is recommended to create at least a 6-inch length for the SAMPLE. Once you have counted and recorded your finding you may cut the sample piece apart and re-use your beads.

Wrap 2 warp bars with 5 or 7 beads (width).

Weave the entire length.