Fall Workshops

beginning weaving workshop

 This fall we have a busy workshop schedule with classes in weaving, felting, and basketry taking place in our studio in Qualicum Beach. 

We started off with our very popular beginning weaving workshop.  This course covers the basics from, what is a heddle (?) and other odd terms to actually making cloth.  It is a close encounter with a floor loom in the company of a fun group of fibre enthusiasts.  Each student has their own loom and loads of support. 

class mug rugs

 Once  the basics are out of the way students get to try their hand at playing with yarns and designing a set of mug rugs.  It is always interesting to see how the final designs vary.  Below is a special mug rug that is the result of a the beginning weaving and a previous workshop, beginning spinning.  The weft material is the student's hand-spun wool.

hand-spun wool weft

For a change, this month we are taking our classes into the woods to forage for mushrooms.  The mushroom dyeing workshop starts with how to identify and harvest Phaeolus schweinitzii.  It is often found on conifers, including Douglas Fir which is common in our area.  Students will then learn how to use this "dyers polypore" as a dyeing agent to create beautiful muted colours.

Not chantrelles

bags in "natural" colours

In October we will be making a Market Basket, while learning some basic basketry techniques.  See the section under Workshops for more details.

stripes

Then there is Beginning Weaving Level II.  In this class, weavers will learn the basics of designing and planning a simple project then they will set up their looms and watch their design become a reality.

felted slippers

In November we will be wet felting with Darrell Giraldeau.  With cooler weather in mind we will be working on felted wool scarves and cozy slippers.  For more information on these classes see the section under Workshops.