Diagonal weaving—also called mosaic weaving—looks tricky at first, but once you know how to “read” the chart, it becomes very logical. Let’s break it down step by step.
✨ 1. How Diagonal Patterns Are Different
Unlike straight (horizontal) patterns:
-
Knots in diagonal weaving form a checkerboard layout
-
Each new row sits between the previous row’s knots
-
The design grows at an angle, not straight across
That’s why it’s called mosaic: the knots interlock like tiles.
🎨 2. Understanding the Diagram Symbols
Most diagonal charts use:
🔵 Colored Lines
-
Show the threads
-
Each color = one strand
➡️ Circles with Arrows
-
Show which knot to tie
-
Show direction of tying
Typical meaning:
(Exact symbols vary, but direction is always key.)
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ↘️ | Forward knot |
| ↙️ | Backward knot |
| ⇄ | Forward-backward (double) |
| ⇆ | Backward-forward (double) |
🧵 3. Set Up Your Threads First
Before weaving, arrange threads exactly as shown.
Orange – Gray – Yellow – Yellow – Gray – Orange
Lay them out left to right in this order and secure the top.
⚠️ Important:
In diagonal weaving, threads work in pairs. You always knot one thread over its neighbor.
📐 4. Reading the Pattern Row by Row
Always read the chart row by row, usually from top to bottom.
✅ First Row (Top Row)
Look at each symbol and match it to the threads.
Example interpretation:
-
Orange over Gray → straight knot
-
Yellow over Yellow → straight knot
-
Orange over Gray → reverse knot
You’re forming the first “zigzag” line.
Work from left to right (or as arrows indicate).
✅ Second Row
-
Usually has fewer knots
-
Edge threads may be unused
-
Only the middle threads are active
This is what creates the “offset” mosaic effect.
Think of it like brickwork: Each new row fits between the last one.
✅ Third Row and Beyond (Frivolité Knots)
From row 3, you often see:
-
Double knots
-
Decorative/frivolité knots
-
More complex crossings
Don’t panic 😄 Just follow the arrows exactly—your hands will learn the rhythm.
🔁 5. How Repeating Works
Most diagonal patterns are cyclic.
When you reach the last row:
➡️ Go back to Row 1
➡️ Start again
Even if the threads look “mixed up,” trust the chart.
If you follow the pattern, the design will fix itself.
This is especially true in geyser or wave patterns.
🧠 6. Why Threads “Change Places”
In diagonal weaving:
-
Threads constantly swap positions
-
Colors move diagonally
-
Your starting order won’t stay the same
This is normal.
Rule to remember:
👉 Follow the chart, not the thread order. The diagram already accounts for movement.
🪜 7. How to Practice Reading a Pattern (Beginner Tip)
Before tying anything:
-
Look at one row
-
Point to each knot
-
Say out loud:
“Red over blue, backward knot… yellow over green, forward knot…”
This trains your brain fast.
After a few rows, you’ll “see” the pattern automatically.
📋 8. Mental Checklist While Weaving
Keep this in mind:
✔️ Did I arrange threads correctly?
✔️ Am I on the right row?
✔️ Am I following the arrow direction?
✔️ Am I knotting in pairs?
✔️ Did I finish the whole row before moving down?
If yes → you’re doing it right 💙
🌟 Quick Summary
Diagonal patterns work because:
-
Knots are offset (mosaic style)
-
Threads work in pairs
-
Rows alternate positions
-
Patterns repeat
-
Thread order changes naturally
Once you understand that, most charts become easy to read.
Add comment
Comments