Fundamentals of Tapestry
Tapestry weaving is an art that has been around for hundreds of years and it continues to capture the imagination of artists and admirers today. In this course Janna Maria Vallee, a celebrated tapestry artist from Madeira Park, British Columbia shows us the very basics of this art form. Throughout these video lessons, Janna teaches us the essential tapestry weaving skill of “meet and separate”: a method that helps maintain proper tension and makes gorgeous colour blending in our works possible.
In Fundamentals of Tapestry, we will go over:
- the different types of looms used in tapestry weaving
- how to make “butterflies” to keep our weft untangled and tidy
- the basics of “meet and separate” weaving method
- how to weave shapes
- how to finish and display your tapestry weavings
We hope you enjoy this course and have fun creating beautiful hangings for your home!
Workbook
Download the Tapestry Weaving Workbook here, complete with illustrations and project instructions »
Transcripts
Mirrix Looms and accessories
Everlea Yarn’s Mirrix Looms which are shipped within the continental USA are shipped from Wisconsin, all other destinations are shipped to from British Columbia, Canada.
Warp Yarn
Any cotton, linen, wool yarn labeled rug warp or tapestry warp will do. Here are my favourites:
Weft Yarn used in this workshop:
- Project 1: Everlea Yarn, naturally dyed Organic Merino Sport in ‘ffrench locks’ and ‘twilight.
- Projects 2 & 3: SweetGeorgia Yarns Party of Five mini skein set, Tough Love Sock in the ‘seashore’ colour combo.
Tapestry beaters:
Ashford and Leclerc both have good tapestry beaters. A common household fork will work fine to begin with, too. Just be sure to use the same beater throughout an entire piece for consistency.
Books for further study:
- The Techniques of Rug Weaving, Peter Collingwood 1950
- Tapestry Weaving: A Comprehensive Study Guide, Nancy Harvey 1991 or 2015
- The Art of Tapestry Weaving: A Complete Guide to Mastering the Techniques for Making Images with Yarn, Rebecca Mezoff 2020
Course Content
About Instructor
Course Includes
- 10 Lessons
- Course Certificate
