Course Descriptions
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.
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. If the student wishes, the loom will be warped Navajo style, with four selvedges..
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.
Central Asian Brocading Weaves	Central Asian weavers added brocading to their woolen plain-weave backgrounds with techniques called Cicim and Zili. Examine examples of these weaves and learn to emulate them on a table tapestry loom.
Sumak	Weavers from the Caucasus are especially known for the sumak technique, used with or without a plain weave foundation. Examine examples of sumak in wool and sik and develop a sampler woven in wool from typical Turkish or Caucasian motifs.
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.