You are so lucky to have a loom made by your father. Mine recently died & I keep finding equipment he made me - including stick shuttles, a kumihimo stand, & an embroidery frame. I also have a brother who modified my grandmother's sewing machine moter & foot pedal into a bobbin winder and made a warping reel for me. Treasure what you have from your family that's handmade - it can never be replaced.
As to getting started, I find that while inspiration can come from books, the best comes from being with other people who share the same interest. We have weavers in our guild willing to mentor new weavers, sharing equipment and books & insisting that they join the guild as well.
A good friend wove me a thank you piece on her Inkle loom. Its a strap (small) that attaches to a loom castle & holds your treadling instructions on a small card that slips inside. Very Clever!
Happy Weaving to All! - Joan in Jamestown
Copyright (C) 2013 Interweave Press, LLCUse of this site signifies your agreement to the Terms and Privacy Policy, updated March 2007