Sword Smörgåsbord
Expand your horizons on a simple 4-shaft loom
Instructors: Becky Ashenden & Eva Gaultney
Dates offered 2026: Oct 5–9
Weaving with a sword can open the door to ornate patterning typically done on a drawloom. This very simple equipment has been in use since way before the Viking Age, and is still relevant today. We will learn about the best uses for both a thick weaving sword and a thin weaving sword. The flexibility of this very simple piece of equipment can greatly expand the creative possibilities for any weaver who feels constrained by a basic four-shaft loom.
Projects
A loom to yourself:
Your personal loom will be beamed ahead with 33/2 cottolin for opphämta and damask.
Looms to share:
- Monksbelt pick-up on a weft-faced plain weave ground
- Dukagång
Designing
- Opphämta
- Damask
- Monksbelt pick-up
- Dukagång
- Treadled leno
In the classroom:
- Discussing other sword techniques
- Project possibilities
Schedule
Mon – You will start threading long-eye heddles and planning your designs.
Tue – We will mount half heddle sticks at the back of the loom, according to your design. Start weaving.
Wed–Thu – Continue weaving. Shared looms will also be in use.
Fri – Cut off our projects and discuss various finishing methods.
Register now
Prerequisites: Vävstuga Basics (Why does everyone need Basics?)
Max enrollment: 6
Location: Barn studio
Course fee: $1100 (includes all instruction and studio time, course handouts, lunch Mon–Fri, dinner Thu)
Materials fee: $50
Days offered: Five-day session, Mon–Fri
Schedule: Instruction time 9:00–12:30 and 1:30–4:00. Exceptions: on the last day, checkout must be completed by 3:00. Once a session begins, the Barn studio is available at all hours.