The warp-weighted loom has been used for more than 9,000 years as a vital tool of everyday life. In this class, the warp-weighted loom has been updated to a tabletop version better suited to modern homes and habits. In this unique combination course, students will learn both woodworking and weaving skills as they build a loom and learn to weave. David Susag, an experienced woodworking instructor, will guide students through the use of a table saw, miter saw, bandsaw, and drill to cut and assemble all the pieces of their loom over the course of two days. Once the loom is completed, students will warp their loom with stone weights and begin weaving a small rya weaving to use as a wall hanging or pillow top under the instruction of Melba Granlund. Students will choose from an array of colors of woolen yarns to weave their project. Students may bring other yarns or fleece locks for their piece. The instructor will share a variety of examples and reference materials for design inspiration. This course welcomes beginning and experienced weavers alike, and no woodworking experience is required.

Required Tools

• Graph paper and colored pencils for sketching designs
• Tapestry beater or kitchen fork with wide-set prongs
• Scissors
• Plastic zip lock bags to hold lengths of yarn to take home if project is not completed during class
• Tote bag to hold warp weights (rocks) and yarns to take home

Optional Tools

• One crochet hook (sizes from D to G)