INTRODUCTION TO DOUBLEWEAVE

Doubleweave is the term used for weaving two layers of fabric on the loom at the same time. These layers can be connected in different ways to allow us to create double width, tubes, tucks and decorative elements with a contrasting background. In this class we will learn how to do many different doubleweave techniques and will begin to weave a sampler of these techniques. Students will need a four-shaft loom, dressed according to the directions provided. Level: Beginner

Doubleweave pick-up is one technique in doubleweave that allows the weaver to weave a design from a graphed picture. The process is somewhat slow, but not as difficult as it sounds when you read about it in books or magazine articles. We will take it one step at a time, and by the end of the session, you will be weaving a small design of your own choosing. Students will need a four-shaft loom, dressed according to the directions provided. Level: Beginner, Intermediate

OVERSHOT VARIATIONS

The pattern possibilities in traditional four-shaft overshot are almost endless. This session begins with a look at traditional pattern drafts, identifying the blocks, how to weave "as drawn in" and progresses to some of the lesser known treadlings such as Scandinavian manner, petit point, brocade, sunburst, shadow fashion and into treadlings based on other weave structures such as summer and winter, crackle, Brownson lace, twill, monk's belt and many more. We will learn how to create original overshot patterns using codes and see what happens when a four-shaft pattern is converted to eight shafts. Students will need to bring 8- or 10-squares-to-the-inch-graph paper, pencil and eraser. Level: Beginner, Intermediate

NEW

PROJECTS IN SHADOW WEAVE

This workshop is designed for those who would rather have a finished item at the end rather than a notebook full of swatches. Each student will work on her/his own loom which will be set up in advance for a specific project (scarf, mug mats, towels, pillow top, vest, etc.) in shadow weave. During class we will cover the theory behind shadow weave, how it is designed and ways it can be threaded and woven. We will study the literature and learn to interpret the various drafting systems used with special emphasis on Marian Powell's book "1000+ Patterns in 4, 6, and 8 Shaft Shadow Weaves." We will weave a sampler of treadling possibilities during class, and from information gleaned from the sampler, students will make final decisions for the actual project that will be woven on the end of their warps. Level: Beginner, Intermediate