6 Best Pick-up Sticks For Pattern Work To Try
Enhance your weaving precision with our top six pick-up sticks. Discover durable, ergonomic tools designed to simplify complex pattern work for every weaver.
Pattern work on a rigid heddle loom opens up a world of texture and complexity, but success often hinges on the quality of your pick-up stick. These slender tools are the secret to manipulating warp threads to create intricate lace, brooks bouquet, or supplemental warps. Choosing the right one can mean the difference between a smooth, rhythmic weaving session and a frustrating afternoon of snagged fibers. Here are six top-tier options to elevate your weaving practice.
Schacht Spindle Company 20-Inch Hardwood Pick-up Stick
Schacht is a gold standard for a reason, and their hardwood pick-up stick is no exception. The wood is dense and incredibly smooth, which is vital when you are sliding it through delicate, high-twist yarns that tend to grab onto anything with a rough edge.
The 20-inch length is a versatile "Goldilocks" size for most standard rigid heddle looms. It provides enough surface area to manipulate a wide warp without feeling unwieldy or heavy in your hands during long sessions.
If you find your warp threads are catching on the edges of your stick, the finish on this tool will be a revelation. It is polished to a glass-like sheen that lets it glide through even the stickiest wool blends.
Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom 22-Inch Pick-up Stick
Ashford tools are designed with the practical weaver in mind, and this 22-inch stick is built for durability. It is slightly longer than the standard, making it an excellent choice if you are working on a wider loom or just prefer a bit of extra room at the edges.
The wood used is sturdy and resists warping, which is a common issue with cheaper wooden tools. When you are working on a project with high tension, you need a stick that won’t flex or bow in the middle.
Because it is designed specifically for the Ashford ecosystem, the thickness is calibrated perfectly for their heddles. It strikes a great balance between being thin enough to create a clean shed and thick enough to hold its shape under pressure.
Kromski 18-Inch Polished Beech Wood Pick-up Stick
Kromski is famous for the beautiful finish on their looms, and their accessories carry that same commitment to aesthetics and function. This 18-inch beech wood stick is remarkably lightweight, which reduces hand fatigue during complex pattern work.
Beech is a fantastic choice for weaving tools because it is hard and tight-grained. This means the stick will not develop those tiny, irritating splinters that can ruin a project made with fine silk or mohair.
If you are a weaver who likes to keep your tools as beautiful as your finished fabric, this is the one for you. It feels substantial and elegant, turning the mechanical act of picking up warp threads into a tactile pleasure.
Louet Flat Cherry Wood Pick-up Stick for Weaving
The flat profile of this Louet cherry wood stick is a game-changer for weavers who struggle with "shed height." Some pick-up sticks are rounded, which can sometimes make it difficult to get a clear opening for your shuttle.
Cherry wood is prized for its stability and its ability to take a very fine polish. Over time, the natural oils from your hands will actually improve the finish, making the stick even slicker as you use it.
I recommend this for projects where you are doing a lot of pick-up work, such as intricate lace patterns. The flat design sits flush against the warp, making it easier to pick up specific threads without accidentally catching their neighbors.
Glimakra 24-Inch Tapered Edge Maple Pick-up Stick
When you are working on a large-scale project, a 24-inch stick provides the stability you need to span the width of the loom. Glimakra’s maple stick is exceptionally hard, meaning it won’t dent if you accidentally knock it against the loom frame.
The tapered edge is the star feature here, allowing you to slide under warp threads with minimal effort. This is particularly helpful if you are working with a high-density warp where the threads are packed tightly together.
While maple is heavier than beech or cherry, the weight is an asset here. It helps keep the warp threads pinned down firmly, ensuring that your pattern work stays crisp and consistent across the entire width of your cloth.
Leclerc 20-Inch Beveled Hardwood Pick-up Stick
Leclerc has been in the business for generations, and their beveled pick-up stick reflects a deep understanding of loom mechanics. The bevel serves a specific purpose: it creates a ramp that guides the warp threads into place.
This tool is a workhorse. It is designed to be used daily, and it stands up well to the rigors of heavy-duty projects like rugs or thick wool blankets.
If you are a beginner, the beveled edge is very forgiving. It helps you scoop up the correct threads without having to fight the tension of the loom, making it easier to learn complex patterns without getting discouraged.
How to Choose the Right Pick-up Stick for Your Loom
Choosing a stick is about matching the tool to your loom’s width and your project’s fiber. A stick that is too short will make it impossible to reach the edges of your warp, while one that is too long will be difficult to maneuver in a tight space.
Consider the thickness of your yarn as well. If you are weaving with fine, slippery fibers like bamboo or Tencel, you want a stick with a very smooth, sealed finish to prevent snagging.
If you are working with sticky, high-friction yarns like wool or alpaca, a slightly more matte finish can actually be helpful. It provides just enough grip to keep the threads from sliding off the stick while you are setting up your pattern.
Essential Techniques for Using Pick-up Sticks Well
The most important technique is to always clear your shed before inserting the pick-up stick. Never try to force the stick through a tangled warp, as this is how you break threads and create uneven tension.
When picking up threads, use a rhythmic, "scooping" motion. Keep your wrist loose and let the tapered end of the stick do the work for you, rather than trying to poke at the threads.
Once the stick is in place, turn it on its side to create the secondary shed. If the shed is too small, don’t force the shuttle; adjust your pick-up pattern until you have a clear, open space to pass the weft through.
Comparing Wood Types for Smooth Shed Formation
The wood type dictates the "feel" of your weaving. Maple is dense and heavy, providing excellent stability for wide warps, while cherry is lighter and offers a very smooth glide that is perfect for delicate lace.
Beech is the middle-ground hero. It is affordable, durable, and holds a finish well, making it the most common choice for a reason.
Avoid cheap, unfinished woods if you can. They may seem like a bargain, but they will eventually develop tiny burrs that will snag your warp. Always prioritize a tool that has been sanded and sealed properly.
Maintaining Your Wood Tools for Longevity and Use
Even the finest hardwood tools need a little love. Once a year, I recommend rubbing your pick-up sticks down with a tiny amount of food-safe beeswax or furniture wax to keep the wood from drying out.
If you notice a small nick or a rough spot, don’t throw the stick away. Use a very fine-grit sandpaper—400 grit or higher—to gently buff the area until it is smooth again, then re-wax.
Store your sticks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme changes in humidity can cause wood to warp, and a warped pick-up stick is essentially useless for creating a clean, even shed.
Investing in quality pick-up sticks is a small price to pay for the hours of frustration they will save you at the loom. Whether you choose the sleek finish of cherry or the robust stability of maple, find a tool that feels comfortable in your hands. Once you master the art of the pick-up, your rigid heddle loom will become a limitless canvas for your creativity. Happy weaving!
