Tablet Weaving

This ancient textile process offers scope for exploring pattern and colour by 'designing on the warp'. Using simple equipment and continuous warping methods for producing decorative and functional braids. it allows the weaver to consider new horizons.

An evening lecture followed by a full days workshop is preferable to do justice to this vast area of braid weaving. Emphasis is placed on understanding the process to enable course members to continue after the workshop.

The fee for this course includes all materials and the use of a set of tablets and weaving board for a maximum of 20 persons.

Venue Provides  -  1 table suitable for clamping tablet weaving board to edge plus 2 chairs for each course member.

Course Member Provides  -  Scissors and large eyed needle

                                   -  Notebook and pencil

                                   -  2 Plastic containers

                                   -  "G" Clamp if possible

Inkle Weaving

This workshop is aimed at encouraging the production of lengths of narrow braids to create fabrics and garments. Direct design and continuous warping methods will be explored. There is also scope for decorative textiles.

No Maximum Number

Venue Provides  -  3 Tables and 1 chair for my samples and materials

                      -  table/workshop space and chair for each person

Course Member Provides  -  Inkle loom

                                   -  Scissors and Large eyed needles

                                   -  Notebook and pencil

                                   -  A selection of assorted yarns if possible

Design for the Textile Artist

A practically based course which looks as the way in which the process of designing can be enjoyable yet productive. It will concentrate on the sources of starting points and will use readily available materials to create samples and explore possible ideas.

No maximum number

Venue Provides  -  Table/Worktop space and chair for each person

                       -  Black Board and chalk if possible

Course Member Provides  -  Scissors, Large eyed needles

                                   -  Notebook, Coloured pencils/crayons

                                   -  Selection of a wide range of coloured yarns, string and cords

                                   -  Small tapestry frame if possible

Tapestry Weaving

This course provides a starting point for those interested in creative decorative woven and non woven textiles. The basic understanding of the control of warps and warp tension, and creating shapes within a woven structure will be covered. Design methods and sources will be discussed with particular interest to the individual. I shall use examples of my methods of weaving and show some recently completed tapestry.

No Maximum Number

Venue Provides  -  Table/Worktop space and chair for each person.

Course Member Provides  -  Small Tapestry frame

                                   -  Scissors, Large eyed needles and ruler.

                                   -  Notebook and pencils, pens and crayons

                                   -  A wide selection of coloured yarns

Lectures - Duration 2 hours plus

1.  Tablet Woven Braids - A demonstration.

2.  Inkle Weaving - A demonstration.

3.  Process or Product - My approach to design through the use of colour, shape and form.

4.  Tapestry Weaving - This concerns the sources of inspiration and the development of the design to the completion of some of my recent tapestries.

5.  Warp Weights and warp Switching - From Anglo-Saxon warp weighted loom to today's warp switching loom.

My own Warp Weighted and Warp Switching looms will be an integral part of this lecture which can extend to a full day.

6.  Warp Weighted Looms  -  The development and use of these important textile looms.