supplementaryweft

Supplementaryweft, commonly referred to as supplementary weft or extra weft, is an additional weft yarn used in weaving to create decorative patterns on a fabric without becoming part of the ground weave. Unlike the primary weft, which interlaces with every warp across the fabric to form the base, the supplementary weft is inserted only in selected warp positions to form motifs, often producing visible floats on the surface.

In practice, the ground fabric is woven with a standard weft, while a second weft is introduced specifically to carry the design. The supplementary weft may be carried by a separate shuttle or incorporated in guided passes, and it is typically dyed or textured differently from the ground weft to highlight the pattern. The motif is created as the supplementary weft floats over the warp or the ground weft before being secured by subsequent interlacing picks.

Supplementary weft patterns can be employed on various ground structures, including plain weave, twill, or satin, and are a hallmark of many decorative weaving traditions. They are especially prominent in brocade and tapestry techniques, where the extra weft carries yarns of contrasting color or thickness to produce intricate designs on a relatively plain ground. The technique allows rich patterns without requiring full jacquard control and can be executed on relatively simple looms with careful planning of float lengths.

Practical considerations include managing the length of floats to prevent snagging and ensuring fabric density remains balanced with the extra passes of weft. Finishing steps may also be used to set the pattern and reduce any distortion. Supplementary weft remains a foundational method for adding ornamental detail to textiles worldwide. See also warp, weft, brocade, tapestry.