The Unexpected Weft
During this intensive workshop, students will explore unusual fibers and wefts to create stunning cloth. Absolutely unexpected and stunning! Looms will be pre warped with 8 - 12" wide warps. Students will thread the loom (if applicable). Students will begin at their loom sampling and then move, round robin style, weaving and gathering samples. Discussing finishing techniques and structure, we will create a sample book that is then used to formulate our finished project.

Over One, Under One
Using the basic structure of Plain Weave, we will be inspired to play with color, inlay, movement, and layer! Think layers and equipment modification! Following the intensive class structure as The Unexpected Weft, students will work round robin style to sample, finish, and create a study book, which will then direct their final project.

Inspiration and Documentation
for Weavers
Sigh. No artist wants to take notes, keep track of measurements, and project outcomes when in the midst of a creative whirlwind. BUT, note-taking and documentation does not have to be a burden. It can actually help lead us to the next level of interpretation and craftsmanship. Using multi-media such as photographs, cutouts, and drawdown forms, we will learn how to create study books that will continue to inspire, lead, and inform us for many years.


Residency Programs K-12:

Weaving cloth is magic! I hope to inspire a sense of wonder and excitement of the Handweaving process through individually designed Integrative art programs. Suitable for grades K-12 with a literature, social science and/or math-based curriculum; Computer aided technology and portable looms; Pattern and structure with unusual materials; Color use and theory; Community Weaving Projects; Special needs and high risk populations; Professional development; Consultation; Loom repair and restoration.

Goals:
To inspire others in the weaving process, to experience weaving as an artistic expression and to have the opportunity to consider this craft as a profession.

PORTABLE WEAVING STUDIO
Contemporary thinkers will enjoy the correlation between past and present as they experience “works in progress” from the Portable Weaving Studio. This includes a 22” wide 8 H loom warped with beautiful colors and traditional patterns. My inspiration will be nearby for the students to realize. There are notebooks with samples, color swatches, patterns, notes and bobbins for winding. As students participate in the design with the computer aided program, they are able to experience the various steps involved with this process learning all the tools, formulas, and techniques necessary to produce “good cloth”. Suitable for small groups.

COMMUNITY WEAVING PROJECT
This activity involves the use of large wooden frame looms (typically 4’x6’) that the students help build. These frame looms are free standing and two-sided allowing participants to work from both sides as they weave wide cloth strips through the holes to weave their design.

This project is most successful when students produce designs that have been inspired through earlier classroom discussions on color, pattern, texture, and symbolism. We discuss finger-manipulation techniques, woven joins, embellishments, color choices and finishing.

The Community weaving process takes 8 – 20 hours from start to finish. It is amazing to watch this process! Just when you think it is done, it becomes clear that the weaving could use a bit more fabric here or a touch of color there. It is a wonderful lesson in group dynamics and offers students a chance to interact directly with their peers – they are the leaders in this.