Plaids and checks never go out of style — and when they are handwoven, they are even better. The twelve projects in this issue feature traditional and more contemporary takes on plaids, checks, tartans, and houndstooth patterns in table runners, blankets, placemats, and scarves. The wide range of projects includes an elegant, modern silk/wool houndstooth shawl, cheerful linen chequered napkins, and a tartan baby blanket.
Articles reflect the issue’s theme with stories of plaids and tartans that hold meaning for both the weaver and/or the recipient. In her Idea Gallery article, Daryl Lancaster describes her process for designing and weaving plaid for a coat using leftovers in her stash. Toby Smith in turn writes about the meanings we weave into our cloth, including the tartan she wove to memorialize her cherished home when she had to move. Kathy Fitzgerald discusses how we view plaids and checks, and Judy Steinkoenig talks about weaving shawls for her daughter’s wedding as well as a tartan plaid for her grandson’s kilt. For the Yarn Lab, Angela K Schneider wove samples using Camilla Valley Farms 2/16 Worsted wool, a yarn designed specifically for weaving tartans.