African Kente Weaving Tools – Authentic Ashanti Reed & Shuttle Set

African Kente Weaving Tools – Authentic Ashanti / Ewe Loom Reed & Shuttle

Presenting a traditional African kente weaving tools set from Ghana: an old wooden loom reed (beater) and shuttle (boat) used for weaving the iconic Kente cloth.

• Reed (beater) – 7″ (17.5 cm) × 6¼″ (16 cm)
• Shuttle (boat) – 8¼″ (21 cm) in length

This vintage set shows authentic wear: dark patina, cracks, repairs made by the weaver, signs of years of use and cultural heritage. A true piece of African artisanal heritage.

Kente is more than cloth, it’s a visual tapestry of history, ethics, oral literature, philosophy, moral values, and spiritual beliefs, with roots tracing back to the 17th century.

These weaving tools are ideal for collectors of fine woven cloth or artifacts, or as functional pieces for weaving or display as wall hangings, sofa or bed coverings.

How These Tools Are Used in the Kente Loom

The reed (beater) packs the weft yarn tightly against the woven cloth, keeping the weave firm and consistent. The shuttle carries the bobbin with the weft thread across the warp threads, enabling the intricate patterns of Kente cloth.

Other Parts of the Kente Loom

An Kente loom typically includes:

• Vertical or horizontal wooden frame to hold the warp threads under tension.
• Heddles for lifting specific warp threads to create patterns.
• Cloth beam to collect the woven fabric.
• Tensioning rods and weaving sticks to maintain structure.

The looms used by the Ashanti and Ewe weavers are very similar in structure and function, with both traditions producing stunning and symbolic Kente cloths that hold deep cultural significance.

History & Cultural Importance

Kente weaving originated among the Ashanti people in the 17th century and is steeped in symbolism, each color and pattern conveys messages from Ghanaian moral values to proverbs, historical events, and spiritual beliefs. Worn during ceremonies and regarded as prestigious, Kente remains central to Ghana’s national identity.

This set isn’t only functional; it’s an authentic artifact of Ghanaian history and culture, an ideal addition for serious collectors, textile artists, and cultural enthusiasts.

Visit our handwoven collections: explore our stunning Ashanti Kente cloths at TribalGH Ashanti Kente Cloths and vibrant Ewe Kente cloths at TribalGH Ewe Kente Cloths to see the beautiful textiles woven with tools like these.