Fig. 223. The way to commence braiding without a knot
To braid with six strands take the extreme left-hand strand and weave under and over to centre and with the right-hand strand weave over and under to centre and cross the left-hand strand (see [Figure 224]).
After the braid has been made it can be sewed together for a mat. In joining a strand insert the new piece so that it extends a little beyond the braid. If a long braid is desired it is best to have the strands of different lengths so that the joinings will not be all in one place ([Figure 225]).
When braiding or weaving with rags cut the strips about three quarters of an inch wide. Old rags can be used for this, cutting out the weak parts. Cheap cotton fabrics when new make excellent mats.
Weaving on frames is very interesting and not such a difficult task as you imagine. There are hand and treadle looms. The following instructions will be for the former. A stretcher such as artists use for painting can be used or four pieces of board twenty-four inches long by four inches wide and one inch thick. Take the four pieces to form a frame.
Photograph by Eddowes Co.
A Cushion Top Can be Woven on a Simple Hand Loom