In weaving, a stripe is formed by arranging blocks of differing warp yarns across the loom while keeping the weft uniform. The resulting lengthwise bands run parallel to the selvage. Weavers use stripes to introduce color contrast, texture differences, or specific visual rhythms into the cloth without requiring complex dobby or jacquard mechanisms.
Heard on the job
Check the draft plan to make sure the warp stripe repeats exactly on the selvage edge.
Insider tip
A true woven stripe always runs vertically along the warp; horizontal bands are called weft stripes or bars.