Beginning weavers will be introduced to the basic skills of project design, material selection, project planning, warping the loom, weaving techniques, and finishing techniques by starting with a simple shawl or scarf.

Previous weavers will identify areas they would like to improve or explore and an individual plan will be set up. Because each weaver starts from a different point and progresses at their own individual speed, instruction will be in the form of tutorial sessions.

Spinners will learn the basics of yarn structure, drafting techniques, plying, fiber preparation, and sample various types of fibers.

A limited number of looms are available at the studio for students to work on. Depending on demand, a student may be able to move from one project to the next without delay, or may need to wait on a rotational basis for a loom to free up. A student using a studio loom must be prepared to spend several hours a week working at the project in order to keep things moving for other students.  A spinning wheel is available for rental by a student without one.

If you have a loom that is portable and can bring it to the studio, then you can work at your convenience at home and bring the loom for a tutorial session when needed. Studio sessions might then include project and material selection, design consultation, and problem solving help. Access to the studio library of weaving patterns and books, and telephone assistance would also be included.

Caution: Weaving can be addicting! You may decide that you need a loom of your own to explore the world of weaving at your own pace. Although French Creek Fiber Arts does not sell looms or other weaving equipment, we have access to many sources and will help you choose and find the right equipment for your needs and budget.

You can use materials you acquire elsewhere, or you can select from the wide variety of colors, textures and fibers in the studio’s sample books.

We can order yarns for you.

If working on studio looms, plan to spend one afternoon  (approx. 3 hours) at the studio working on your project. Additional hours can be scheduled as desired. The studio is open Tue.-Sat. 11-5.  Evening hours are a possibility, but will need to be arranged.

If you are working on your own loom, you can schedule tutorial sessions as needed. Your time is your own, of course, but to achieve the satisfaction of a completed project, you should allow yourself several hours of weaving a week.

For students working on studio looms, the rate is $17.50 per week, payable in advance a month at a time. Additional weaving hours to finish a project are included as needed.

For students taking fewer than 4 lessons a month, the rate is $20 per session.

Materials ordered for student projects are the responsibility of the student.

Peggy Strang has been working with fiber arts for over 30 years, and has been seriously weaving for 12 years. She has had formal instruction from Charlotte Ballas, and informal instruction through extensive reading and workshops with noted weaving instructors. She is a member of Medina Spinners and Weavers, the Fleece N Flax Guild, Handweavers’ Guild of America, Complex Weavers, and American Tapestry Alliance.

How do I get started?

Simply send an email or phone (440) 934-1236 to enquire about scheduling lessons!