Split Shed Weaving

Split Shed Weaving
Multiple structures using a straight threading

Break out of blocks with split-shed weaving.

Weave curves and blend colors using continuous wefts on a 4-shaft loom with no special equipment.

In this workshop, students will create multiple combinations of weave structures using only four shafts and a straight threading. Only tie-ups and treadling are changed between samples. Most of these combinations would normally require a minimum of eight shafts.

Students will experiment with combinations of twills, summer and winter, double weave, Han damask, taqueté and more!

Woven samples include continuous, complementary, and supplementary wefts, as well as wefts which combine to produce shading for pictorial weaving. (This is the same color-blending process Deborah Silver uses to create her art.)

Students will also learn to make a cartoon on cloth that will advance with the warp and will not wrinkle when beating.

​Although students will not be able to complete all of the samples in class, they will leave with the ability to complete them at home with all of the drafts and instructions.

Floor looms are preferable, with jack looms allowing the easiest treadling. Direct tie-up and table looms may also be used.

Looms will need to be pre-warped. Students will provide their own weft yarns (instructor will email samples of acceptable yarn types).

Students will also need three 10”-14” flat shuttles and one other shuttle of their choosing that will be comfortable to use with an 8 to 9-inch wide warp.

• Date: May 10, 11, and 12, 2024
• Time: 9:30am-4:00pm
• Location: Mountain View United Methodist - Room 215
  355 Ponca Pl, Boulder, CO 80303

• Class size: 20

Prerequisites/Experience: Ability to warp and weave a 4 shaft fabric

Equipment/Materials Provided by Participants:
Directions for “homework” will be provided 45 days in advance, loom and the shuttles, bobbins and tools to weave with.

Equipment: Although this workshop can be done on a table loom, a floor loom (jack or direct tie-up) is preferable as it speeds up the weaving process.
Looms will need to be pre-warped. Students will provide their own warp and weft yarns. Students will also need two 10”- 14” flat shuttles and one other shuttle of their choosing that will be comfortable to use with an 8”- 9” wide warp.

Workshop fee: $200 payable on registration

Material fee: bring $15 (cash or card) to the workshop. 

Registration opens December 15, 2023

For more information contact:  

Jane McAtee, programs@handweaversofboulder.org

Current HGB Members receive priority on Workshop registration. Non-Members will be placed on a waiting list and contacted by the Programs Chair.

Cancellation/Refund Policy: Workshop fees are payable to HGB and due with the registration form. Refunds are made only if another or (wait list) person can fill your space. If the workshop is canceled by HGB, you will receive a full refund.