9/2024 Submitted by Heidi Bennett, Seattle

When you use 2 pick-up sticks, you must remove and re-insert the second stick each time you need it. If you use a heddle rod instead, there’s no need to remove and re-insert it. The heddle rod can stay in place without interfering with the first pick-up stick. It’s one and done!

It’s simple to make and just requires a dowel, some smooth cotton (8/2, 8/4, 5/2 etc.), and I like to add some painter’s tape to hold the top of the heddles in place. Here’s a great tutorial from Gist Yarn (photo from Gist Yarn to illustrate the technique).

9/2024 Submitted by Heidi Bennett, Seattle

Just raise your shafts up using a piece of wood on its side so the shafts are higher to see and thread. Skip crouching down or searching for a low bench to sit on and enjoy that process more!