| Course Descriptions | |
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Weaving of Indigenous Peoples These classes use our upright Navajo tapestry looms, upright fixed-heddle rug looms, inkle looms, table tapestry looms, and backstrap looms. The basic class unit is 6 weeks at $125. Please note that these methods are extremely labor-intensive. The student is encouraged to weave at home or at the studio during open studio time. |
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| Beginning Navajo Weaving | This course introduces the new student to weaving on theNavajo loom. The student will warp the loom tapestry style and weave a small sampler with traditional motifs using batten and fork. Traditions applicable to the weaving process will be discussed, as well as some Navajo history. |
| Navajo Weaving - Ongoing | For students who are familiar with the use of the Navajo loom, this class offers an opportunity to develop one's techniques using the turned and hooked joints (diagonal and vertical shapes). Using examples from our library, the student will design an original pattern and chart it on graph paper, learn to gauge picks per inch, and work on developing weaving rhythm and facility. The loom will be warped Navajo style, with four selvedges, unless the student wishes otherwise. |
| Navajo Weaving - Advanced | This class introduces several advanced techniques: Navajo warping, four-harness diamond twill, and double weave. |
| Central AsianCut-Pile Carpet Weaving | Learn to weave a cut-pile woolen rug using the tools and methods of Central Asian carpet weavers. The use of the Tabriz loom, hook knife, and steel beater will be covered, as well as how to follow a graphed design. Beginners will work on 6" squares; intermediate weavers may design and work on larger pieces. Note: materials fees apply for rugs larger than the initial samples. |
| Central Asian Kilim Weaving | Kilim rugs are "flatweaves" - that is, they are weft-faced tapestry rugs. They may be woven on upright looms with bunched string heddles or Tabriz fixed-heddle looms, or on modern table-top tapestry looms. We will study typical pattern motifs and design a sampler to introduce the techniques. |
| Central Asian Warp-faced Weaves | Central Asian weavers developed both complementary warp and warp-substitution weaves, using wool warps and motifs similar to those of the Andean weavers. We will practice these weaves first using cotton warps and inkle or tapestry looms, and progress to wool warps and ground looms if the student wishes. |
| Andean Backstrap I/Inkle I | This class will introduce the "loomless" backstrap loom, which uses no end bars and consists only of the warp and heddles. Students who are uncomfortable using a backstrap loom may work on an inkle loom instead. We will learn how to wind a warp for a "hakima" (narrow tie, less than 1" wide" and a "chumpi" (belt, one to three inches wide) and make beautiful traditional and original patterns in the "complementary warp weave" (pickup-and-drop) and the pebble weave. Students will learn about Peruvian and Bolivian weavers and their culture. |
| Andean Backstrap II/Inkle II | This class introduces us to double weaves and tubular weaves. Students who are uncomfortable using a backstrap loom may work on an inkle loom instead. |
| Independent Study | For intermediate or advanced weavers, we offer tutorials in any aspect of Navajo or Andean
weaving. After meeting with you to determine your goals, we will construct a personalized program
of instruction. The duration of this class will depend on the topic.
This category also includes any weaver who wishes to take a class but cannot attend an evening program. Please contact us with your request and we will schedule a daytime group to accommodate you. The class duration and tuition will be as described for the evening classes. |