The Weaver's Tools

The weaver's tools are simple also. They consist of: one or more sword beaters, which are made of flat wood, pointed at both ends and beveled on both edges, and a hook beater, which is either a gazelle or goat horn or a steel hook in a wooden handle.

The sword beater assists in opening the shed, a space between two sets of yarns, into which the crosswise yarn is placed. When turned on its side, it creates tension, which is essential for a tight weave. Finally, the shuttle is a simple stick on which the crosswise or weft yarn is wound in figure-eights. The weaver passes it through the shed each time she pushes down or lifts up the sets of warps not secured in the heddles.