Warp Gradation: Using Fiberworks to create a gradient.

Gradation of colors in the warp can create a very interesting background for a pattern.

When using Fiberworks software select "Colors" from the band at the top of the screen then choose "Create Gradient".  A box will appear giving you several selections.

•  Choose the color you want to start with from the color bar then pick the color to end with.
•  Select how many colors you want to blend.  The more colors you choose, the more gradual  the gradient will be.
• Number of threads.  If you want the color to change across the entire warp choose the total number of warp threads.  If you want to mirror the color, like the photo above, divide the total number of ends in half and insert that number.  Example:  200 total warp ends would be 100 for half the warp.
• Click on "Add to end", this will place the color on the draft.  If you selected half of the total warp the color will only fill in half of the draft.
• To finish the mirror effect click add to end again.  This puts the color on the other half of the warp but it needs to be reversed to give you the mirror.
• Click "Reverse" and you should have the mirror effect across the entire warp.

The computer will give you an endless number of colors, however, you need to check how many colors of thread you have to create the gradient.  You may need to decrease the number of colors in the program to make it practical for the colors you have on hand.

Just follow the threading sequence to get a nice gradation.  This does take time when warping but it gives a beautiful warp at the end.

Something to consider when creating a gradient is the draft you will be using.  When you take a lot of  time to create a beautiful warp the draft should highlight the warp.  You could choose a warp dominant draft or a draft with a simple design.

The draft I chose for this gradient is too dominant and hides the gradient.  I tried several colors of weft and eventually picked yellow because I wanted to highlight the design.  I now wish that I had not done the gradient for this draft; as it does not show in the finished cloth.  In the future I need to decide in advance which aspect is more important and will choose a draft that is more appropriate. 

I also think that the scale of this project is too small for the gradient.  This is about 9 inches wide for a scarf.  I think something wider would be better for the gradient.

The scarf is still beautiful but is not exactly what I envisioned for this warp.