Abstract: An arrangement for tensioning the end of an inserted weft for beat-up of the weft into a fell by a rotary reed is described. An elongated weft-gripping mechanism is movable forwardly opposite the direction of movement of the portion of the reed which engages the weft being inserted along an axis oblique to the rotary reed into a frontmost position where it engages a weft carried by each of a succession of weft inserters as soon as the inserter has moved past the end of the reed into which the weft has just been inserted. A pair of jaws on the outer end of the gripping mechanism then close to grip the engaged weft and to move it rearwardly into a securing position between a thrust plate and a toothed, weft-guiding disc coaxial with the rotary reed. After the weft is secured, the jaws of the gripping means open and the gripping mechanism is moved forwardly again to grip the next weft.