Weaving Basics 02

Plain Weave
The plain weave is the simplest of all weaves. It is a “one by one” or a “one over one” weave (1 x 1). Each weft yarn in a plain weave goes over one warp yarn and then under the next warp yarn, alternating every other yarn as it passes through the loom.
On the next cycle of the loom, the next weft yarn starts under the first warp yarn and then goes over the next warp yarn.
There is only a need for two harnesses in a plain weave.
The first harness contains the odd numbered warp yarns and the second harness contains the even numbered warp yarns. Thus, half
of the warp yarns are in the upper part of the shed on one cycle and the other half of the warp yarns are in the upper position on the next cycle.  


Diagram 6: Drawing of a plain (1x1) weave 

Advantages of a plain weave:

1. For a given yarn size, the plain weave produces the lightest weight fabric. -
2. Plain weaves tend to wear well (abrasion resistance). -
3. For down proof fabrics the plain weave is the tightest weave as the warp and weft yarns have the least amount of space between the yarns. -
4. The surface is smooth, offering a good surface for printing. 

Disadvantages of a plain weave:

1. Plain weaves tend to wrinkle more than other weaves -
2. No woven patterns can be made in a plain weave -
3. The tear strength is lower in a plain weave than in other weaves.