Sámi bandweaving book: Girjjit

All the way from Jokka, Sweden, these Sámi produced books offer a smorgåsbord of bandweaving patterns. The journey was long (by way of a Swedish train, a Dutch bike, a Danish plane, and a reindeer or two) so you can marvel at the rich cultural tradition of Sámi bandweaving. This is a rare opportunity to grab a copy of a small second-printing of these long out-of-print books. Additionally, this second printing includes corrections to the first edition. Text in Swedish but the patterns are visual. I include a basic glossary (e.g., colors, “pattern threads,” “ground threads”). I also recommend the free translation program DeepL.

Girjjit (Book) is the mother lode of Sámi bandweaving patterns. This book fueled my quest to bring these books to you and nearly led to a visit to Jokka (someday!). Nearly all the patterns are pick-up patterns ranging from 7 to 25 pattern threads. Each band includes a warping order, pick-up chart, and technical notes with information on yarn, use, and origin. Does not include instructions on how to set up a bandweaving project. A bountiful pattern book for the collector and advanced bandweaver.

Softback. 136 pages.
ISBN 91-630-9564-5

You can weave Sámi pick-up bands with a regular rigid heddle or on a band loom, but I highly recommend Stoorstålka’s pattern heddles. The Sigga heddle is especially helpful when weaving designs with groups of pattern threads that move, or “jump,” together. Along with yarn and other weaving supplies, Stoorstålka also sells excellent instructional kits with accompanying YouTube videos. They ship to the US.