Summer Solstice Placemat Weaving Kit – Duet Cotton & Linen Yarn
Weave four vibrant placemats inspired by the long evenings of the summer solstice using Gist Yarn's Duet cotton and linen weaving yarn.
Designed by Jennifer E. Kwong, the Summer Solstice project features a Basketweave structure—a simple variation of plain weave that creates a beautifully textured, soft, and contemporary fabric.
This project is an excellent second weaving project for rigid heddle weavers who are comfortable with the basics and are ready to explore colour changes and a new weave structure.
Pattern included in both English and French.
Project at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Skill Level | Beginner with basic weaving experience |
| Project | 4 placemats |
| Recommended Loom | Rigid heddle loom |
| Minimum Weaving Width | 14.5 in (37 cm) |
| Reed | 7.5 or 8 DPI |
| Structure | Basketweave |
| Warp Sett | 15 EPI |
| Weft Density | Approximately 15 PPI |
| Pattern | PDF included in English and French |
Why You'll Love This Project
Weave four placemats from a single kit
A simple yet rewarding weave structure
Only three colours to work with
Rich texture with a modern look
Perfect for rigid heddle looms
Cotton and linen fabric that softens beautifully after washing
What's Included
This kit includes all the Duet yarn needed to weave the four placemats in the original project colour palette:
- Duet – Santorini
- Duet – Cerise
- Duet – Coral
- Official PDF weaving pattern
- English version
- French version
Yarn quantities are carefully prepared for the project and include a small allowance for comfortable weaving.
Loom, reed, shuttles, bobbins, and finishing tools are not included.
Dimensions & Technical Details
Designer
Jennifer E. Kwong
Finished Pieces
4 placemats
Finished Size (approx.)
13 in × 17.75 in (33 × 45 cm), plus fringe
Weaving Width
14.5 in (37 cm)
Weave Structure
Basketweave
Warp Sett
15 ends per inch using doubled ends in a 7.5 or 8 DPI reed
Weft Density
Approximately 15 picks per inch
Finished dimensions may vary slightly depending on your weaving tension, beat, and wet finishing.
Materials Required
To complete this project, you will need:
- a rigid heddle loom with a minimum weaving width of 14.5 in (37 cm);
- a 7.5 or 8 DPI reed;
- one boat shuttle and three bobbins;
or:
- three stick shuttles;
- scissors;
- your usual warping and finishing tools.
A 16-inch loom can be used, although the weaving space will be limited. A 20-inch loom or wider will provide a more comfortable weaving experience.
The project can also be woven on a multi-shaft loom using plain weave while maintaining the grouped threading described in the pattern.
Included Yarn Quantities
| Colour | Warp | Weft | Approximate Total |
| Santorini | 225 yd | 165 yd | 390 yd |
| Cerise | 265 yd | 200 yd | 465 yd |
| Coral | 170 yd | 165 yd | 335 yd |
A Colour Palette Inspired by Summer Skies
The Santorini, Cerise, and Coral palette captures the warm glow of long summer evenings.
Santorini
A rich blue that brings freshness and depth.
Cerise
A vibrant red that adds bold contrast and structure.
Coral
A warm accent that softens and balances the palette.
Together, these three colours create lively movement while producing a timeless design that complements both modern and traditional table settings.
About Duet Yarn
Duet is a cotton and linen weaving yarn that combines the softness of cotton with the natural character of linen.
It is especially well suited for home textiles thanks to its:
- excellent stitch definition;
- rich, saturated colours;
- natural texture;
- durability;
- soft hand after washing;
- outstanding performance for table linens.
Before washing, the fabric may feel slightly firm. Wet finishing allows the fibres to relax, creating a softer fabric while enhancing the beautiful Basketweave texture.
What Is Basketweave?
Basketweave is a variation of plain weave.
Instead of weaving individual warp and weft threads, the threads are grouped together—most commonly in pairs—to create a more pronounced texture reminiscent of woven baskets.
In this project, the warp ends are doubled in a 7.5 or 8 DPI reed to achieve a finished sett of 15 ends per inch.
This approachable structure is a wonderful next step after mastering plain weave.
What You'll Learn
This project will help you develop several valuable weaving skills, including:
- planning a warp with colour changes;
- doubling ends in the reed;
- weaving Basketweave;
- changing weft colours;
- maintaining a consistent beat;
- improving selvedges;
- weaving multiple pieces on one warp;
- finishing fringe;
- wet finishing cotton and linen fabrics.
Yde's Weaving Tips
Prepare Your Shuttles First
Wind your bobbins or prepare your shuttles before you begin weaving. This makes colour changes smoother and helps maintain your rhythm.
Aim for Approximately 15 PPI
Check your weft density regularly to achieve balanced fabric and the intended finished dimensions.
A consistent beat also highlights the Basketweave texture.
Take Care of Your Selvedges
Lay the weft in with a gentle angle before each beat. This gives the yarn enough room to settle naturally and helps produce smooth, even selvedges.
Trust the Wet Finishing Process
Don't judge your fabric while it's still on the loom. After washing and drying, the cotton and linen relax, the fabric softens, and the Basketweave texture becomes much more pronounced.
Why Choose Your Kit from Irène Textile?
Irène Textile is a Canadian weaving shop specializing in weaving yarns, looms, and fibre arts supplies.
When you purchase your kit from us, you'll enjoy:
- yarn prepared specifically for this project;
- personalized advice before you buy;
- help selecting the right equipment;
- service in both English and French;
- support from an experienced weaver and weaving instructor;
- shipping throughout Canada.
Every kit is carefully prepared in Montréal, Québec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the pattern included?
Yes. Both the English and French PDF versions are included.
Is the yarn included?
Yes. The kit includes all three Duet colours required to complete the project.
Are the loom and accessories included?
No.
Can I weave this project on a multi-shaft loom?
Yes. The project can easily be adapted to a multi-shaft loom because it is based on a variation of plain weave.
Can I choose different colours?
This kit includes the original Santorini, Cerise, and Coral palette.
If you would like a custom colour combination, please contact Irène Textile before placing your order so we can confirm yarn quantities and colour availability.
Ready to Weave?
Create a beautiful set of four colourful, durable placemats you'll enjoy using every day.
Your kit includes all the yarn you'll need, along with the weaving pattern in both English and French to guide you through the project from start to finish.