Make a Cardboard Rectangular Weaving Loom

WHAT TO GATHER

Your starting kit.

Clean, dry cardboard with uncrushed edges
A ruler, pencil, and scissors suitable for the board
Paper glue or paper tape as required by the joins
Scrap cardboard and a protective work mat
Cotton warp, weaving yarn, and a blunt tapestry needle

STEP 01

Measure and prepare

Cut a 180 by 240 mm rectangle and mark matching notches every 10 mm on its two short ends.

STEP 02

Lay out the construction

Wind cotton warp back and forth through the notches with gentle even tension.

STEP 03

Join and shape

Weave a contrasting yarn over and under successive warps, leaving the rows loose enough that the panel sides do not draw inward.

STEP 04

Check the result

Keep the warp slightly flexible; a bowed board means the tension is too tight. Let all adhesive dry before fitting the intended lightweight contents. Place the project on a flat surface and check that its joints sit square. If a slot tears or a wall leans, remake that piece from sound cardboard rather than hiding the weak join with decoration.

STEP 05

Finish and keep

Smooth exposed rough edges with a thin paper covering where needed, without blocking working slots. Keep the project away from water and heat. Recheck the joints after a few uses and replace a worn piece if it bends or loses its shape.

Before you begin.

How wide should I cut the slots?

Measure the cardboard thickness and test a slot on an offcut. The pieces should slide together with light pressure; forcing them can crush the corrugation and weaken the join.

What should I check before beginning?

Keep the warp slightly flexible; a bowed board means the tension is too tight.

Original editorial project guidance. Images are AI-generated concepts, not photographs of tested finished projects. Practice on inexpensive materials and follow tool and material instructions. Sources & approach.

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