Introduction

Weaving: The Basics and Next Steps

Whether you are new to weaving, a 'lapsed' weaver, or simply want to build on your foundational skills, there is a place for you in this hybrid class where you will have ample opportunity to develop your skills as a weaver, regardless of prior experience. All weavers are encouraged to weave and learn at their own pace.

'Basics' weavers will weave in rotation on several fully warped looms to develop familiarity with the motions and sense of touch involved in creating beautiful cloth. During the last four weeks Basics students will participate together in planning, making a warp and preparing a loom for weaving.

'Next Step' weavers--those with prior experience--will plan a project, make a warp and dress a loom, seeing their project through to completion in 8 weeks time, all with Lausanne’s support as needed. Next Step students are encouraged to keep a weaving journal and to provide a project plan prior to beginning their warp.

Since we often learn most readily by observing and participating, in this hybrid class everyone benefits as the warping of looms can become a hands-on learning experience for all. Weekly class time will include occasional assignments, a short topical discussion of weekly handouts, and instructor presentations on topics that will broaden your skills and your understanding of the vast world of weaving. For those students interested and ready, time will be spent reading and creating weaving drafts, both with pen and graph paper, and by an introduction to using a weaving draft program if desired. We will explore a variety of weave structures in our class time to develop our eye for what is possible weaving on 4 harness or 8 harness looms.

Class time is supplemented by 4 two-hour open weaving studios a week, open to all weavers at the school, giving you ample time to weave more. Here's to hybrid vigor! We all learn from one another as well as from our looms in this collaborative studio setting. Weavers will go home with what they have woven and likely make several new friends who share a similar passion for weaving.

Perhaps after taking this course you will be eager to plan further projects of your own and return in a later session to weave them!

Limited to 6