Directions for Making a Potholder Weaving Loom

Draft and cut out a frame shape from the plywood. Use the T-square to draft a square 8-inch sides, then cut using the scroll saw.

Mark the outside edge of the frame for the positioning of the pegs. Lay the ruler along each edge of the wooden square in turn and draw four lines, parallel to the edges and a half-inch in from the edges. Draw dots on these lines to indicate the positions for the pegs; draw 15 spots on each edge, spaced evenly apart.

Drill holes where you've made the pencil markings using a small drill bit (1/8th inch or less). Stand the wooden square up on its edge to drill clear through from one side to the other.

Make the dowel pegs. Cut the dowels into 60 short pieces, each an inch in length.

Glue the dowel pegs in place using wood glue. Apply the glue to the ends of the dowels only, and press them against the plywood square, centering them over the drilled holes. Let the glue dry and harden fully.

Reinforce the pegs using screws. Drive the screws up through the bottom of the loom, centering them inside the drilled holes. Use a low speed setting so you can stop and correct the screws if they start to go in at a jaunty angle; you want them centered inside the pegs.

Thoroughly hand sand the finished loom. Go over it first with medium-grain sandpaper, then fine. Pay special attention to the pegs, since this is where you most want to prevent any fraying or catching of the fabric.