Learn the process of flat woven tapestry, taking inspiration from a favourite image. After warping up a small frame loom, you will understand the basic principles of weaving using different yarns, blending and combining colour to create shapes and lines.

This course will examine the basic process of woven tapestry. The main technique will be flat woven tapestry.

After setting up the warps, we will begin a detailed examination of the process of tapestry weaving as a way of understanding how the materials work together to create a woven surface. You can select a simple colour scheme for your tapestry; this will also enable you to familiarise yourself with the process of combining colour and technique to create the right look for further weaving projects.

Initially, we will begin with traditional materials of a cotton warp with woollen weft. Once you are familiar with the basic principles of weaving, you will be able to use different yarns in the weft, and are welcome to bring any yarns that you specially wish to use.

Enjoy demonstrations of techniques at various stages of the course. You will work individually, with a group evaluation at the end of the course.

Topics covered include:

• Setting up a simple frame, how to put on the warp ready for weaving
• Construction of the woven surface, warp/weft thicknesses
• Basic techniques: creating shapes, lines, blending and shading
• Consideration of technical aspects, warp setting, weft, cartoon production, use of specific materials and techniques

By the end of the course, you will also be able to begin to look at ways of developing your own personal language within the medium. The samples produced are intended to be used as a future reference for when working independently.

Included

• the cost of warp yarn weft yarn for sampling is included.
• small weaving frames are available for use and can be purchased at the end of the course if required.

What students need to bring

• Any yarns/materials you would like to experiment with
• a notebook and pencil
• a good pair of scissors
• Any other weaving tools you have and wish to Bring (bobbins, etc.)

• one or Two G clamps (these can also be borrowed from the workshop)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          There will also be An opportunity to purchase tapestry yarn from specialist supplier Weavers Bazaar, who will visit during the course. They have a range of beautiful colours.

Available to buy

Available from shop:

• Scissors
• You have the option to purchase your weaving frame at the end of the course; the cost is approximately £15.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no open toes or sandals).

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

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