Crackle Weave Simply

This book is a fundamental guide to the crackle weave structure. The author, Susan Kesler-Simpson, presents the structure in clear, simple, detailed explanations. Reading this book is like having a teacher next to you who flipped on the understanding light bulb. You are never left guessing how to weave or adapt this traditional Swedish weave for contemporary purposes.

However, this book is not the definitive guide to crackle weave. Kesler-Simpson directs you to other sources for more in-depth information. Since crackle is a block weave, knowledge of block weaves is helpful but is not necessary when using this book to plan your projects. Terms that are necessary to understand in crackle weave, such as “incidental threads,” are clearly defined and are highlighted in green on the threadings so that they are not missed.

Kesler-Simpson has done an excellent job of breaking down crackle weave drafts. Each element of a draft is presented separately along with the effect of changes to any of the draft elements. Important details and reminders about each draft are included in a square on the draft page. All tie-ups are the same, but there is a separate discussion of treadling crackle as twill, lace, overshot, and in the Italian manner. Potential problems, like undulation and floats, are discussed with the cause and prevention explained.

This book also includes brief discussions of texture, color, and fiber. The weaver is encouraged to experiment with yarns not typically used for weaving. Helpful hints, like the bobbin holder Kesler-Simpson’s husband made to help organize colors when she is weaving polychrome, are included.

A full color photo index of projects, including the title and page number for each, can be found at the end of the book. There are twenty-seven projects in the book. Twenty of the projects are for four-shaft looms, and seven are for eight-shaft looms.

To sum it all up, this book is a perfect choice for a beginning weaver or more experienced weavers who may not have tried crackle weave.–Terri Bryson “Shuttle, Spindle & Dyepot”

Susan Kesler-Simpson is passionate about fiber arts and breaking down complex weaving techniques so that even beginners can learn the basic concepts. She is the author of the successful Overshot Simply and Shadow Weave Simply and has a B.S. and M.A. in Clothing, Textiles, and Design from the University of Nebraska. She enjoys teaching weaving and working in other crafts such as knitting, spinning, and crocheting. She resides in Danville, Pennsylvania.