11. Open Source Hardware - From Fibers to Fabric¶
Research & Ideation¶
As I begin the Open Source Hardware – From Fibers to Fabric course at Fabricademy, I feel excited to explore how materials, textiles, and open-source thinking come together. I’m stepping into this journey with curiosity, ready to learn how fibers are created, how fabrics behave, and how hardware can be shared, remixed, and transformed by anyone. What inspires me most is the idea that I can make my own tools, experiment with sustainable materials, and understand textiles from the inside out. This course feels like an invitation to create with freedom, to collaborate, and to discover new ways of designing that are open, transparent, and hands-on.
References & Inspiration¶
Initially, I wanted to create a felting gun for my open source hardware assignment, because I was excited about experimenting with a tool I had never built before. But as I started gathering materials, I realized that some of the key components were harder to find than I expected. Instead of getting stuck, I decided to shift directions and make a mini weaving loom. This felt like a more accessible and hands-on way to stay creative while still exploring the spirit of open source fabrication. In the end, the change turned into an opportunity to learn a new technique and connect more deeply with the process of making.
Tools¶
- cotton thread
- scissors
- Laser machine
- large eye neddle
Process¶
My first step was to laser-cut the weaving loom, which felt like the moment everything finally came to life. After preparing the design file, I carefully set up the laser cutter, adjusted the settings for clean edges, and watched as the machine traced each line with precision. Seeing the pieces fall into place—from the frame to the small notches that would hold the threads—made me appreciate how digital fabrication can turn a simple idea into something tangible in just a few minutes. It was a satisfying start, and it gave me a clear direction for the rest of the project.
What is Weaving? Weaving is a method of creating cloth from two sets of yarns or threads interlaced at right angles. The lengthwise threads are called the warp and the sideways threads are called the weft . Cloth is usually woven on a loom , a device that holds the warp threads taut and in parallel to each other while weft threads are woven through them.
step1¶
Before diving into the hands-on steps, I wanted to map out a clear process for creating my mini weaving loom. Since this project grew out of a change in direction, I approached it with an open mind, ready to learn each stage as it came. From preparing the digital file to laser cutting the pieces and assembling the final structure, every step felt like a small discovery. This process allowed me to understand not just how a tool is made, but how open source hardware encourages creativity, adaptability,
step2 Secure the Beginning of the Warp and Warp Up the Loom¶
step3 Pull the Top Stick to the Middle and Weave the Spare Stick Above, Alternating the Warp Thread Positions¶
