I really enjoy writing my looming patterns. But I’ve never found a standard way for putting a loom pattern into print. Here’s some suggestions I have for writing out patterns created on the loom.
First, write in English, or what ever language you use. Don’t abbreviate too much. There are a lot of beginners who might not be used to patterns as they’re written for needle knitters or crocheters. If you’re going to use an abbreviation, define it first. For example, say knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch (k1, p1). Your reader will generally be able to note ” (k1, p1) means knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch”. But don’t make up abbreviations. For example, I have never found a standard for the bobble stitch. I spell it out.
My next suggestion is to use standard terms. Most looming terms are also used in needle knitting and some are even used in crochet. This will make your pattern easier to understand for someone who is used to another needlework standard but new to looming. Knit, purl, and cable stitches are standard. There are some special terms in loom knitting, such as e-wrap and u-wrap. If you are using a term that seems standard in the instruction books that are sold with looms, this should be acceptable for most of your readers.
Start with a description of your item. What does it do? How do you use it? What size is it? Be sure to include a supply list of what the person will need. What size loom did you use? I’m embarrassed to admit that for my first few patterns I defined looms by color. Then I discovered that the same size loom might come in several colors. Define your loom by number of pegs and, if necessary, by type of loom. For example, I have a 12 peg flower loom that is larger than my 12 peg mitten loom. I would not recommend using the length or diameter of the loom in your description. Instead, define the loom by it’s purpose after listing the number of pegs.
Think of the small articles you might need for your project, such as needles and scissors. Also, what type of yarn should they use? How many strands of yarn should they use? Lay out your supplies list.
Next, consider the length of the project and of course, the level of difficulty. What types of stitches did you use? Was it basic stockinette stitch or did you use cables? Having this information up front will help the reader know if they’re ready for this project.
Then, without further ado, write your project step by step. For the loom this usually is defined by rows or rounds but it might be narrowed down by stitches. If you describe what your reader will see or be making it will help them in their work. For example, “you just made the wrist of the glove”. Be sure to count your stitches, rows and rounds in your test project. If possible, make 1 and share your pattern with a friend to have them test it. Or make a second item for a friend using your pattern. This will help work out the kinks of the pattern.
Including diagrams can help sometimes. Take a picture of the part of the project you want to exhibit and upload it to your computer. You can use the Windows Paint program to place an arrow above the spot that you want to point out. This is a simplistic step but it can help readers who are visual learners.
The format I have laid out above should allow you to quickly and easily write your own patterns out as you make them. Your readers will be able to read them and follow them. I hope this article will help allow more looming patterns to be created and written. Good luck!