Join me for a workshop at Green Door Folk School! More info here.

Discover the timeless art of band weaving in this immersive one-day workshop designed for beginners. Using a rigid heddle backstrap loom, participants will learn the foundational techniques of weaving narrow bands that have been used for centuries to create functional and decorative textiles such as belts, straps, and trims. These beautiful bands can be used for much more including ribbons, bookmarks, and even custom shoelaces!

This hands-on course covers the basics of loom setup, warping, and weaving with a focus on achieving even tension and clean patterns. You’ll gain a solid understanding of how the rigid heddle functions, how to use the backstrap for body-tensioned weaving, and how to create simple yet beautiful patterns in your band.

By the end of the day, each student will leave with a completed woven band and the knowledge and confidence to continue weaving independently. All materials and equipment will be provided, and no prior weaving experience is necessary. All participants get to keep their rigid heddle to continue weaving after the course.

Itinerary: During the class, we’ll explore basic weaving terminology and tools, setting up a rigid heddle backstrap loom, warping techniques and tensioning, weaving with a heddle and shuttle, and finishing techniques for narrow bands. We’ll gather in the morning, pause for a lunch break, and end the day with reflection and closing by 4:30pm.