This is a beginners’ course, and is designed to give students an understanding of what can be achieved using a multi-shaft loom, and leave with enough knowledge to continue weaving on your own. 

Taught in small groups of up to four people, and using four and eight shaft table looms, students will have an opportunity to explore pattern, colour and texture using various looms, each one set up differently, so that a wide variety of patterns can be replicated and techniques can be explored.

As well as sampling, students will also learn about weaving notation, and at least one of the large floor looms will be available for students to try.  Across the four days, when to at their looms, the class will make a warp and dress a loom read for weaving. 

This is a four-day course that takes place over two full weekends (Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm with an hour's break for lunch).

4-Day Beginner’s Weaving Course / Introduction to Multi-shaft Weaving

Sibylle Moulin

It has been a privilege to meet Alan, hear about his interests and work and to  weave in his studio. 
Alan is extremely friendly, knowledgeable and gives all  necessary instructions for  students to acquire a basic understanding and practice of weaving on 4-8 shaft looms. I strongly recommend this course which is suitable for complete beginners or as a refresher ; it has certainly given me the confidence and  motivation of exploring further  this wonderful craft/art.

Joanna Hill

I spent 4 really interesting and inspiring days with Alan in his studio. 
Day 1: experimenting with different yarns, weaves and colour on 2 different looms, a 4 shaft and 8 shaft table loom
Day 2: preparing the warp, learning how to plan a project, calculate the yarn, winding and tying off the warp on a warping board. More time experimenting with different weaves and twills
Day 3: setting up a modern 8 shaft loom - putting on and spreading the warp, threading the heddles and sleying the reed. More weaving
Day 4: weaving on the set up loom, working on a sampler and experimenting with waffle weaves
Plenty of time to chat, get to grips with different tools and experience the process.  Alan is generous with his knowledge, support and biscuits.
In 1860 six of my great grandmother’s family worked in the Lancashire cotton mills.  I’ve  just bought a second hand loom on eBay and I’m all set to start my weaving journey.  

Gemma Lawson

The four day beginner's workshop was a great introduction into multi-shaft hand weaving. The class was small (only two students) resulting in dedicated time for discussion, questions, weaving, setting up the loom, spinning, yarns and fibres and more. As a novice weaver, I would recommend this course as a great place to start!

This is a beginners’ course, and is designed to give students an understanding of what can be achieved using a multi-shaft loom, and leave with enough knowle...

Alan Oliver Handweaver, Dyer & Print Maker