BandFest

Mora bands — Sami bands — Leksands bands — Estonian bands — Norwegian bands

Instructors: Becky Ashenden & Eva Gaultney, with guest assistant Anne Littlebird

Dates offered 2023: Aug 28 – Sep 1 (concurrent with Vävstuga Bandloom)

The weaving of narrow bands is one of the most ancient forms of weaving known to man, and remains popular today. From the bandages used to wrap Egyptian mummies to early Coptic weavings and the complex bands of Scandinavia, band weaving has taken many forms. Band weaving is inexpensive, portable, endlessly fascinating, and very easy to learn. There are many types and techniques for creating woven bands. Traditionally, bands have been used for harnesses, carrying water, clothing, and just about anywhere attaching, tying, or connecting was required. Today a beautiful handwoven band can easily take the place of a rubber band or string, and will enhance your life in the process.

Floor loom projects

On your own loom:

You choose your warp
(We will contact you with choice details)

6 shared floor looms, set to go:

Simple pick-up from Skåne
Hefty Sami band
Leksand pick-up
Estonian treadled band
Plain weave

Rigid heddle projects

Design and Analysis
Learn to warp on “chairs”
Threading, the easy way
Weaving technique
Packing for safe storage
Pattern pick-up
Fringe finishing

Extras

Leksand bandloom demo
Mora bandloom demo
Vävstuga Bandloom demos

Schedule

Monday warps will be pre-sleyed, and ready to beam with help from your neighbors, followed by threading heddles, and weaving.

Tuesday weaving will continue, and we will start setting up rigid heddles.

Wednesday we will start rotating on the extra looms, which will be set up ahead of time.

Daily classroom sessions will build on each other through the week, providing a thorough exposure to many examples, techniques, materials, and designs.