Three different stages are involved in the weaving process. As the first stage, a designer creates the artwork for the new tapestry from an original doccument or museum illustration. Once the finished artwork is approved, it is interpreted into a techinical design called a 'mise en carte'. From this technical artwork a 'Jacquard' is produced. This is a series of perforated cards, a system invented in 1804 by Joseph Jacquard (1752-1834) enabling intricate designs to be woven.

Then the weaving loom is set up. This process is known as 'warping' and is a lengthy and delicate operation, involving the attachment of approximately 12,000 horizontal warp threads to the corresponding number of vertical loom-heddles. When the Jacquard card has been placed on the loom from side to side. Each of the perforations on the Jacquard card will activate the movement of the warp threads, allowing the weft yarns in the shuttles to pass correctly between the warps, thereby creating the design. Once an acceptable trial result has been achieved, the weaving process can begin. The weaving process requires much skill and attention to detail. A weaver has various tasks to fulfil in overseeing the operation of a loom. His skills include placing the correct weft spools in the shuttles and renewing them when necessary, and controlling the weaving tensions. The weft yarns are carefully selected from a vast range of different shades, in order to achieve the desired tones in the tapestry.

Bayeux Tapestry

Pevensey

Bayeux Tapestry

William Sails for England

 The Bayeux Tapestry

Harold Rides to Bosham