Once beginning weavers have learned to warp a loom, they may ask themselves what's next. How does one begin to explore the vast world of color interaction, pattern and design choices, and the hand-feel, or density, of the desired cloth?

Enter the gamp, a kind of “menu” in which every three inch square of the weaving is a tiny sample of a different interaction. In a color gamp, see how that green looks with that purple, or that orange with that red. Explore which twill is preferred: sawtooth, broken, or pointed (twill gamp). Or, see which thickness is best for that blanket: 15 or 20 threads per inch (sett gamp)?

In this class students will have the opportunity to weave these three Gamps, providing them with an invaluable reference tool for years to come. As time allows, finishing touches can be added to create placemats, a table runner, or wall hanging. Please note that this class requires the ability to sit for long periods, as well as good eyesight (aided as needed) and fine motor skills.

No experience is required, but some basic understanding of looms and weaving will enable students to best utilize this class.

A materials fee of $60 will be collected in class by the instructor.

Students ages 16+ may register for this course independently. Youth ages 14+ are welcome to register with an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full-paying adult; call to register.

Optional Tools

• Yarns you’re interested in trying (suggested sizes 5/2, 3/2, 8/2, 10/2)
• Slippers for class (no shoes on the looms)