Backstrap weaving is a practice that originates mainly in South America and South East Asia, as well as in Eastern Europe to make traditional textiles.

The whole loom relies on the weaver resting the “backstrap” on their waist which is connected to the front and back beams, which in turn are connected to a sturdy surface (be it a table, a tree or your bed). You, as the weaver, are the driving force that makes the whole loom come together. It relies on your movement to open up the shed sticks and grow the piece.

During the course of this workshop, you will learn how to do the following:

• The structure of the backstrap loom and how it works
• Setting up your loom from scratch for tapestry weaving
• Attaching the warp strings from the back to front beam with the right tension
• Attaching the shed stick and heddles to the warp
• Understanding the mechanics of the loom and how it works with the movement of your body
• Basic tapestry techniques to build your pattern
• Designing your piece and translating that onto the loom
• Adding the third beam to your weaving when your piece becomes longer as your progress
• Finishing techniques for when the piece is taken off the loom

You will finish the day with a woven decorative piece for your wall.

There will also be a chance to try band-weaving, as well as some traditional backstrap weaving on a warp-faced loom.

All levels welcome, even if you’ve never tried weaving before.

Included

On this course the tutor will supply some of the materials including: the looms, scissors, needles, card, warp thread, yarn scraps, yarn.

What students need to bring

• Cushion to sit on the floor
• Comfortable clothes

Available to buy

Available from tutor: Backstrap Loom – £80 (If you wish to pursue weaving once you have finished the course.)

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

There will be a lot of sitting on the floor or chairs. For people with disabilities this might be a little uncomfortable, but we will try to ensure that all can access the course and sitting position as much as possible.

Daily Timetable

Course teaching 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching 11am-1pm
Lunch break between 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions