All About Tapestry Bobbins

Part bobbin, part shuttle, tapestry bobbins & bones are used in tapestry weaving. These little tools are for carrying thread in the intricate designs that tapestry weavers dream up. A tapestry bobbin usually has a pointed end (for picking up designs in the warp) a shank for winding the yarn, and a head to keep the yarn from falling off the end. The Aubusson Tapestry Bone is a bit different and looks like a softer, rounder weaving bobbin ... or like a wooden bone. These are used in horizontal weaving so that they can't sneak through the warp and hide out under the weaving. There are a few different styles of tapestry bobbins that change up the size and shape of the different parts.

Swedish Style: These bobbins have a long point that makes picking designs easier than thicker styles.

Gobelin Style: These are based on the bobbins used by the famous tapestry weaving family of France. These are very similar to the Swedish bobbins but are generally larger.

English Style: These are the chunky version of tapestry bobbin. These bobbins hold lots of yarn and because they are larger, can be easier on the hands during extended use.