What’s the Stitch About Knitting Machines?
Let's talk about knitting machines! What are they, how do they work, and does it count as hand crafting if you use one? Why choose a knitting machine vs knitting by hand?
Pick-up Sticks are available in the following sizes: 12", 17", 25", and 33". One end is rounded and beveled to allow easy placement. One comes with each Harp loom.
You might think that with a rigid heddle loom your weaving projects must be simple in design. After all, such a loom is inexpensive and lacks the “sophistication” of those big floor looms. Not so. There are several ways to add texture and visual appeal to work done on a rigid heddle loom. One is with the use of a pick-up stick.
Pick-up sticks are flat pieces of wood that are sized to work with your loom. Your Kromski Harp loom comes with one pick-up stick. One end is beveled to help you use it.
How is it used? The stick is used behind your heddle. One way to look at it is that with a pick-up stick you trick your loom into thinking it is something it is not; you temporarily change the way the warp interacts with the slots and holes on the heddle. The result is a stunning range of patterns.
With the heddle in the down shed position, pick up the slot threads behind the heddle using the beveled end of the pick-up stick. One pattern, for example, requires every other one of these slot threads to be picked up – over, under, over, under… Once the stick is completely inserted, bring it forward to the heddle and put it on edge. You can see how this imparts a different, temporary shed opening.
There are a number of books and videos that address the use of pick-up sticks. Some sample patterns are shown right. Whatever you are weaving, give it a special look using your pick-up stick.
Our first response to your order would be to have it shipped directly from our warehouse. In the case that our stock levels are too low, your order may need to be either ordered into our warehouse or drop-shipped directly to you from Kromski’s warehouse in Georgia, USA. Please allow 3-5 business days for them to process and ship out your order before receiving an e-mail with your tracking number. Should your order be back-ordered with our vendor, one of our customer service representatives will contact you with delays and shipping information.
Please note that Kromski drop-ships are sent via UPS or USPS and typically arrive within 3-7 business days after being shipped. Please provide a physical address for your order as UPS does not send to PO Boxes. Drop-shipping is not available for international orders at this time so please allow time for your order to reach us before we ship it to you.
Please contact us with any questions or concerns regarding your order at (509) 536-7746 or sales@paradisefibers.com.
Need help on a project?
We'll help you find what you're looking for.
Contact Information
In-store pickup hours are the same as in-store hours.
Paradise Fibers Blog
Stay up-to-date with our blog to find out what's happening not just at the paradise, but also in the industry, and so much more.
Let's talk about knitting machines! What are they, how do they work, and does it count as hand crafting if you use one? Why choose a knitting machine vs knitting by hand?
Feeling some FOMO? Don’t worry—you can always find the latest edition of The Ewenice Report [here]!
Want the newest issues delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now and stay in the loop on fiber news, tips, trends, and exclusive updates.
The fiber arts world is embracing bold creativity in 2025! Individuality takes center stage this season, with maximalism, vibrant earth tones, and nostalgic Y2K influences shaping the hottest trends. Granny Squares are back in a big way, textured yarns are stealing the spotlight, and sustainable crafting is more popular than ever. Whether you’re mixing patterns, layering textures, or upcycling materials, this is the year to step outside your comfort zone and make something uniquely you. Dive into the top fiber art trends for spring and summer and get inspired to stitch, spin, and craft with confidence!