Beats

A beat in terms of weaving is when you pull back the beater bar / reed and "beat" in the threads you just shot though.  Consistent beats with the same amount of pressure in each pull back make even looking fabric.  Machine woven fabrics look smooth becasue there isn't room for human error.

I am loving the inconsistency in my handwoven textile.  You can really see the hand of the weaver making the fabric one of a kind and beautiful.  I am striving for consitancy which will come with practice but, for my first project I am enjoying seeing my progress woven in front of me as I pass, beat, change.