Instruction

SWG Member Education Opportunities

  • Workshops - Wonderful workshops are taught by visiting acclaimed artists on a variety of weaving topics (open to non-guild members if there is space available). Also, every year, a special Summer Workshop is held at Seattle's Gasworks Park.
  • Mini-Workshops - Small in class size and short in duration, the Guild also offers Mini-workshops, taught by SWG members for their fellow members.
  • Study Groups - SWG members pursuing self-study, can join a specialized study group for support, encouragement, feedback or advice on their weaving. Current Study Groups include: Card Weaving, Dyeing, Garments, New Weavers, Personal Expressions, pixeLoom Software, Rigid Heddle, Rugs, Support & Mentoring, Sheep to Shawl, Surface Design, Tapestry, Traditional Textiles and Weave Structures. Groups are formed based on interest.
  • Grants/Scholarships - Each year, SWG offers a merit-based grant to a guild member (or members) for technical and aesthetic development. Anyone who has been a member of SWG for two years is eligible.

Classes

A SWG Workshop

There's no substitute for learning from a teacher who can answer questions and watch what you are doing. Listed below, are some weaving classes available in the greater Seattle area:

  • The Weaving Works - Marcy Johnson's The Weaving Works is a thriving local yarn store in the heart of Seattle's University district. It offers many classes and carries books and supplies for a wide range of textile pursuits, including weaving, spinning and knitting.

  • Willingham Weavery - Sue Willingham teaches beginning and continuing weaving classes in her studio on Vashon Island. There is no set schedule; she plans classes when at least four people are interested at the same time. Formats include weekly for 8 weeks, week-long workshops, weekend classes and one day workshops. Costs vary depending on the format. Contact Sue and she will let you know when a new class is planned. 206-463-1747 or msuewill@centurytel.net

  • The Weaving Studio at Southeast Seattle Senior Center - a well-equipped weaving studio with classes open to all ages. Featuring beginning weaving, kumihimo, inkle weaving, card weaving, macrame', and other specialty topics. All looms and fiber provided. Contact Linda Stryker 206-431-9213 or find more information on the SESSC website.

  • Barbara Doyon has been a beginning weaving instructor since 1975. She owned Cottage Weaving in Issaquah for 17 years. Barabara will provide instruction on your loom in your home. She offers a complete, comprehensive series to make you a well-informed beginning weaver, able to choose a pattern, select appropriate yarn, warp your loom and weave something you will be proud of. 425-392-5900 or belovelydoyon@comcast.net

  • Roberta Lowes teaches beginning weaving, spinning and dye classes (both chemical and natural), as well as painted warps. Studio open MWF 2-6pm by appointment. 705 Court C Opera Alley Tacoma WA 253-572-1859

  • Marilyn Romatka teaches a wide range of folk arts to both adults and kids. Many types of weaving, spinning, and other ethnic crafts are offered. Her passion is to pass traditional skills on to the next generation. See the classes she offers at taprootfolkarts.com or call 425-603-0591

  • June Schilbach teaches spinning, weaving theory and technique, using handspun yarn for weaving, and computer drafting with PCW - in your house or hers. Located in Tieton near Yakima. 360-929-6677 weaveon@earthlink.net

  • Lana Schneider teaches weaving and spinning in the South Sound area. From introductory level to specialized subjects, her extensive teaching list includes spinning, loom weaving, off-loom techniques, creative crochet and more. Classes are held at Lana's home in Lacey Washington unles otherwise arranged. lanaden@comcast.net

References

The following references are great for beginners.

These weaving books and more are availble from public library systems as well as the Seattle Weavers' Guild library (available to members only).