The Joy of Weaving: Open Studio

Enjoy a week of weaving in a beautiful natural setting. Be inspired by the rich color combinations in nature and the beautiful sunsets over the bay. Looms will be set up ahead of class, allowing you more time for weaving. See the magic of creating your own fabric for a project of your choice—a scarf, a runner, placemats, a towel…

This open studio class is set up for people with a range of skill levels—beginners, refreshers and those ready to explore a new weave structure or work on their own project.

Geke will contact you four to six weeks before the class begins to discuss your project, including yarn and color choices. Weavers in the Madison, Wisconsin area can meet with Geke at her home studio if they would like assistance with setting up their loom. Geke will prepare a loom for beginning weavers so they too will be ready to start weaving on the first day of class.

During the week, you will learn and practice basic weaving skills and learn basic weaving vocabulary. Discussions will include reading a pattern draft and planning your next project. The class will look at a variety of color designs and observe how colors interact.

This will be a small class with a maximum of six students. You will be weaving on a four or eight-shaft table loom. Bring your own loom or rent one from The Clearing for a small fee.

Working with yarn and fabrics was part of everyday life for Geke de Vries (pronounced Gay-ka de Frees) while growing up in the Netherlands. When she was studying for a teaching degree, arts and crafts were included in the curriculum. After moving to Madison, Wisconsin, Geke explored weaving and became intrigued by how color, texture and patterns interact. Classes at conferences inspired her to try new ideas and techniques at home. Geke’s interest in the weaving traditions of other cultures has taken her on tours to Central Asia, India, Mexico, Peru and Bhutan. Weaving is an ancient art. It’s amazing to see how skilled people are in designing beautiful cloth with intricate patterns using traditional looms. Geke teaches beginning weaving at her home studio and is a weaving instructor at Oakwood West Retirement Community in Madison. This is her eighth year teaching weaving at The Clearing. Her handwoven items are available at art fairs and at her home studio in Madison.

A supply list will be sent prior to class and is available online.
Geke will contact students prior to class.
Note: Looms are available to rent from The Clearing for $25.

Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Materials Fee: $25 to $50, depending on materials used, payable to Geke during class.
Supply List: Supply List PDF
Web: www.merrillsprings.com

Pricing (per person):
$1045 Dorm Room Package*
$1145 Two-Person Room Package*
$1705 Single-Person Room Package* (limited availability)
$615 Commuter Package** (limited availability)

*package includes tuition, lodging & 16 meals
**package includes tuition & 7 meals