DIY Woven Wall Hanging: A Cozy and Textured Decor Idea

Textiles have a magical way of transforming a space, adding warmth, texture, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. One of my favorite ways to incorporate textiles into home decor is through woven wall hangings. These beautiful, handmade pieces bring an artistic and earthy touch to any room, and they're surprisingly easy to create! In today's post, I'll guide you through the process of making your very own DIY woven wall hanging. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need:

• A wooden dowel, branch, or piece of driftwood
• Various yarns, ribbons, or fabric strips in your desired colors and textures
• Scissors
• A tapestry needle
• A loom (optional)
• A comb or fork (optional)

Step 1: Choose Your Weaving Method

There are several different methods for creating a woven wall hanging, but for this tutorial, we'll focus on two of the most accessible options: loom weaving and freeform weaving.

Loom Weaving:

If you have access to a loom, this method will provide you with the most control over your weaving and produce a clean, uniform result. You can purchase a loom at a craft store or online, or even make your own using a simple picture frame and some small nails.

Freeform Weaving:

For a more organic and less structured look, you can opt for the freeform method. With this technique, you'll simply wrap your yarn, ribbon, or fabric strips around a dowel, branch, or driftwood without the use of a loom. This method is perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed, bohemian aesthetic.

Step 2: Select Your Materials

The beauty of a woven wall hanging lies in its unique combination of colors, textures, and materials. When selecting your yarn, ribbon, or fabric strips, consider the overall look and feel you want to achieve. You can mix and match different materials, such as chunky wool yarns, silky ribbons, or even strips of recycled fabric, to create an interesting and visually appealing piece. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your choices!

Step 3: Prepare Your Dowel or Branch

If you're using a wooden dowel, you may need to cut it to your desired length using a saw or a pair of strong scissors. If you're using a branch or piece of driftwood, ensure it's clean and dry before beginning your project.

Step 4: Create Your Weaving

For Loom Weaving:

1. Set up your loom according to the manufacturer's instructions or your DIY loom design.
2. Begin by weaving a base layer of yarn or fabric strips horizontally across the loom. This will create a sturdy foundation for your piece.
3. Experiment with different weaving techniques, such as tabby weave, soumak, or rya knots, to create various textures and patterns. You can also play with color blocking, stripes, or gradients for added visual interest.
4. As you weave, use a comb or fork to gently press the yarn or fabric strips together. This will create a tight, even weave.
5. Once you've completed your weaving, carefully remove it from the loom and trim any excess yarn or fabric from the back.

For Freeform Weaving:

1. Cut long strands of your chosen yarn, ribbon, or fabric strips. The length will depend on the desired size of your wall hanging, but a good starting point is approximately twice the length of your dowel or branch.
2. Fold each strand in half and loop it around the dowel, branch, or driftwood using a lark's head knot. Continue adding strands until your dowel or branch is fully covered.
3. Using a tapestry needle, weave additional yarn, ribbon, or fabric strips through the strands to create texture and patterns. You can also incorporate various knotting techniques, such as macrame or friendship bracelet patterns, for added interest.

Step 5: Finish and Hang Your Wall Hanging

Once you're happy with your woven masterpiece, it's time to add the finishing touches. Trim any excess yarn or fabric from the back, and knot a piece of yarn or twine to either end of the dowel or branch for hanging. Then, find the perfect spot in your home for your cozy, textured creation.

A DIY woven wall hanging is a beautiful and versatile addition to any space. With endless possibilities for colors, materials, and techniques, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personal style and adds a touch of handmade charm to your decor. So, gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the process of weaving your own stunning wall art. Happy crafting!