Mirrix's Shasta Combs and our No Warp-Ends Kit accessories have some similarities in function. This blog post will attempt to break down the differences.
Tapestry Weaving and Bead Weaving
The Shasta Combs were originally developed with tapestry weaving in mind, but are now available at different setts, so they can be used for bead weaving as well. They can also be used for bead weaving in combination with a Bottom Spring Kit. The No Warp-Ends Kit, on the other hand, was developed with bead weaving in mind. It can also be used for small tapestries, but it can be difficult to keep your sett even using this kit.
Takeaway: The Shasta Combs can be used for tapestry or bead weaving, but you need to have combs in the correct sett for the piece you are making. The No Warp-Ends Kit is primarily recommended for bead weaving.
Weaving With No Warp Ends to Finish
Both the Shasta Combs and No Warp-Ends Kit can produce pieces without warp ends to finish. There are, however, limits to each accessory. The Shasta Combs can be used for no warp-ends weaving, but this method is limited by the various heights of which you can adjust your loom. You also cannot use the shedding device with this method.
The No Warp-Ends Kit works well for relatively thin pieces with beads and, to some extent, tapestry (as I mentioned above, it can be hard to keep your sett even.) The No Warp-Ends Kit was originally designed as a way to make fast, easy small beaded pieces, like bracelets, without having to finish the ends. We do not recommend this kit for very wide pieces and, while you can put on a smaller kit on a larger loom, it is only available for the 16" Loom and smaller.
Takeaway: Choose the No Warp-Ends Kit for bead weaving when you do not want to finish the ends. Choose the Shasta Combs for tapestry or bead weaving. Be aware of the limitations of both accessories, like not being able to use the shedding device.
Quick Warping
If you're looking for a quick and easy warping method, the Shasta Combs are perfect for both bead and tapestry weaving.
Takeaway: For fast and simple warping for bead or tapestry weaving, choose the Shasta Combs.
Want to learn more about either kit? Click here for more on the Shasta Combs. Click here and here to learn more about the No Warp-Ends Kit.
