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Workshop: Tapestry Level I - A Solid Foundation
A Workshop with Nancy Harvey © 2000
P. O. Box 1540 Colfax, CA 95713-1540
Phone(530) 346-6184
Fax (530) 346-8887
e-mail: info@nancyharvey.com

GENERAL INFORMATION

DESCRIPTION: In this workshop students will be introduced to basic tapestry weaving using slit technique. The warp is the foundation of a successful tapestry, so that's where we'll begin. You will learn about tools, materials and equipment, the structure of the weave, and warp and weft considerations. There are many choices in tapestry weaving. You can weave from bottom to top, from side to side, with the front of the work facing you, or from the back. You can weave a row at a time or a shape at a time with wefts that travel in the same or the opposite direction using slit or interlocking techniques. You will learn how to weave many shapes including horizontal curving shapes, and vertical curves. I'll also share many technical tips that will make the process easy and successful and even solve those weft direction problems for you. You will weave a sample project provided by the instructor. Finishing techniques are also included. The 3-day version includes the secret of weaving a "round" circle plus an introduction to shading techniques and some ways to come up with your own tapestry designs.

STUDENT INFORMATION: In order to spend as much time as possible weaving, each student should come to class with their loom warped.

Looms: All loom must have some sort of a shedding device and a tension adjustment system is helpful. Small floor looms, table looms will work just fine, and are recommended. If you have a tapestry frame loom, make sure that it has some sort of a shedding device, so that you can change sheds easily and quickly. A standard rigid heddle loom is not recommended for this workshop. NOTE: If you are using a borrowed loom, please make sure that you know how to use it and that it is warped correctly and ready to use before coming to the workshop. Please make sure you are familiar with the operation of your loom.

Warp: Warp your loom for a width of 8 inches and long enough to weave 16 inches. Set the warp at 6 epi using either a 3/2 mercerized cotton or a 12/6 seine twine. Linen and wool are not recommended as a warp for this beginning course. If you are using a table or floor loom, (instead of some sort of a tapestry loom) thread the loom 1, 2, 3, 4, for plain weave. Use a double warp at each selvedge. Thread it through the same harness so these 2 "edge threads" will work together (not a floating selvedge) Warping options: Do not warp your loom wider than 5 epi or tighter than 7 epi. This is important because of the weft material we will use.

Weft: Select wool weaving yarns, either a singles or plied that are all the same size. Yarns with approximately 125-150 yards per 3.5 oz skein will work best. Bring about 1/2 skein of at least 3 different colors. Patternayan needlepoint yarn with 40 yds/skein will also work fine. Bring 3 or 4 colors.

OTHER MATERIALS: In addition to the normal workshop items...a notebook, pencil and scissors, please bring 2 T-pins, some heading material to space the warp (I use plastic bags cut into 2 inch strips); a tapestry packing fork or comb (a kitchen fork or wide-toothed hair comb will work).

If you have a copy of my book, "Tapestry Weaving - A Comprehensive Study Guide" bring it along...I'll be happy to autograph it for you. My book and videos will also be available for purchase during the workshop.

PREREQUISITES: No previous weaving experience is required. Tapestry is a hand-manipulated weave where the weft completely covers the warp to create a pictorial image. Anyone with an interest in weaving is welcome. If you are using a borrowed loom, please make sure you know how to use it.

FACILITY/CLASSROOM NEEDS:

One 8' table for instructor materials. A chalk board, chalk & eraser, slide projector, screen & carousel. Classroom should be able to be darkened for slide projection. Enough chairs and adequate table top work space for all students (an 8' table for each 2 students).

I look forward to a fun-filled informative workshop. If you have any questions, prior to the workshop, please feel free to contact me.
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