I used foamcore strips to create the alternating sheds
for weaving. The foamcore was woven through (basket weave) and then
rotated to open the warp for easy weaving of the braid (with my fingers).
One shed was the full length of the rug (30") and remained in place
- the 2nd shed was woven/removed each time I did the 2nd row.
The braid was about 3/8" thick - so it took two rows
to make an inch. The braid was pretty stiff and didn't pull the sides
in, but I "looped" each row to keep the tension even. I used a big wooden
salad fork to pound down the weft (and ended up putting little dents in
my door - the price of creativity!)
(click on the images for larger views)