Are you keen on learning how to hand weave your own fabric? From humble tea towels and table runners to scarves and dress making fabrics, this relaxed and friendly two-day workshop will teach you everything you need to know to get set up and weaving at home.
Run by me, Ellie Fisher (BA., MA Central St Martins College of Art and Design). I have been weaving for over 20 years and love passing on my love of this craft for others to enjoy.
Our in-person table weaving workshops take place over two days to ensure there is time to cover everything from setting up the loom to experimenting with weaving.
This is quite an intense workshop as there is a lot to take in over the two days, especially on day one, but everything you learn is supported with a handout of clear notes which is yours to make notes on and take home, and there are never more than four people on each workshop to ensure you receive as much guidance as you need.
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions. If I’ve missed anything, please just shout. You can contact me HERE, and to book click HERE.
What equipment is used in the workshop?
The looms used for this workshop are the four shaft Louët ‘Erica’ with a weaving width of 30cm. These are fantastic beginner looms as they’re compact, easy to transport with a collapsible castle, and most importantly, have a built in raddle which makes setting them up ready for weaving a little more straightforward.
Other equipment includes warping mills from both Louët and Ashford.
What materials are used in the workshop?
You will have a wide selection of yarns to choose from, including linen, organic cotton, and hemp, just to name a few. If you have yarns at home that you’d like to try out, please feel free to bring them along.
For the warp we usually use the 8/2 organic cotton and/ or the 22/2
Do I have to pay extra for materials?
No, all the materials and use of equipment are included in the price of the workshop.
What’s covered on day one?
Day one is almost entirely dedicated to setting up the looms and we will cover:
- How to keep weave notes.
- Planning and making your warp.
- Dressing the loom.
- If there’s time you may start weaving by the end of day one.
What’s covered on day two?
Day two is all about weaving!
- Looking at and documenting patterns.
- Weaving with a selection of yarns.
- Discussing equipment needed to get set up at home.
What will I make?
There is no pressure in this workshop to produce anything specific. The aim is to weave a collection of samples, experimenting with different colours, patterns, and yarns, recording weave notes as you go.
That said, you may have something in mind that you’d like to weave, like a wall hanging, or fabric for a pocket etc… and in this instance we can talk about how you’ll achieve that. Please note that if it’s anything very specific then you’ll need to discuss this with us well in advance of the workshop taking place.
Is this workshop suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely! This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and for those with a little experience that would like a refresher.
Please be aware that people learn at very different paces, something you find very simple, another might really struggle to understand and vice versa.
You will be encouraged to support your fellow group members whilst working at your own pace. It is important that you don't worry about what stage other people are on as this will only hold you back.
I will ensure that by the end of the two days you will take home a series of woven samples.
Please let us know of any special needs prior to booking so as we can discuss all possible options with you.
What’s the difference between table loom and frame loom weaving?
Frame loom weaving, also known as tapestry weaving, is (as the name would suggest) woven on a frame. This type of weaving tends to produce a thicker fabric which lends itself to wall hangings, cushion covers, place mats etc…. Setting up the loom ready for weaving is a quicker process than table loom weaving, however weaving can take considerably longer than on a table loom. As a general rule, your weaving area is restricted to the size of the frame, though there are certain frame looms which enable you to slide the warp around for a longer piece of weaving.
Table loom weaving is woven on a loom that (you guessed it!) sits on a table, or a stand. This type of weaving can produce finer fabric which lends itself to dress making fabrics, tea towels, scarves and table runners etc… You make the warp on a warping mill and then wind it onto the back of the loom meaning you can weave much longer pieces of fabric.
Is there somewhere nearby that I can stay?
There are plenty of fabulous places to stay within easy driving distance of Kings Somborne, below are some quick links to a few of our faves:
The Greyhound on the Test, Stockbridge
To book this workshop CLICK HERE.