Heritage Weaves & Contemporary Design 2 DAY WORKSHOP 29 & 30th JULY

Heritage Weaves & Contemporary Design
2 DAY WORKSHOP

29 July 10.00 - 3.00
30 July 10.00 - 3.00

Tapestry Weaving: Honouring Finnish Tradition and Modern Composition

This two-day course offers a technical and artistic exploration of weaving on a portable lap loom. The programme is led by Debbie, an established textile artist and member of both the Crafts Council and Heritage Crafts.

The workshop is informed by the traditional Finnish raanu (a heritage woollen textile) and specifically the work of pioneering weaver Elsa Montell-Saanio (1926–2019). By evolving functional Lapland weavings into sophisticated wall hangings, Montell-Saanio transitioned the craft from utilitarian blankets into modern fine art. This course mirrors her philosophy, treating handwoven textiles as unique artistic compositions that capture the tactile richness of the landscape.

Day One: Technical Foundation and Core Concepts

The first session focuses on the essential mechanics of tapestry weaving. Students will work with high-quality rug yarns to master the following:
• Loom Preparation: Technical protocols for setting up and warping a lap loom.
• Stitch Mastery: Instruction in the Tabby stitch and the textured Rya stitch.
• Heritage Techniques: Implementing the subtle stripes, colour gradients, and signature plaited tassels characteristic of Montell-Saanio’s work.
• Finishing: Professional methods for securing, tensioning, and removing a completed piece.

Day Two: Creative Application and Free Weaving

The second day is dedicated to a Free Weaving workshop. Having built a comprehensive skill set on day one, students will have the creative freedom to experiment with their own designs. This session explores the convergence of Finnish soul and a "less is more" philosophy—akin to the Japanese aesthetic of shibui—where profound impact is achieved through understated, functional simplicity. Students will produce a bespoke woven textile that serves as a meditative reflection on the natural world.

Equipment and Materials

Please note that while rug yarns are provided, the looms are for workshop use only and are not included in the course fee. For those wishing to continue their practice, a selection of looms and tools will be available for purchase on-site.

For further reading on the history of the raanu, please refer to Selvedge Magazine Issue 127.

Workshop Location
Krowji
West Park
Redruth
Cornwall
TR15 3GE

The price includes a group lunch at The Grow Box Café for both days. Places are limited to 8 people.