Repurpose old shirts and jeans you don't wear anymore, and bed sheets you never use, into beautiful rag rugs! This is a great workshop for beginners to learn the basics of the loom and enjoy a hands-on approach to learning how to weave. Rag rugs are a simple way to give your old clothing a new life as a small doormat or bath mat, plus it makes a great gift for a friend! This class is dedicated to creating space for LGBTQ+ community members ages 13 and older to explore a new craft with new friends. All are welcome, but space on the looms is very limited.* Please be sure to join the waitlist if you are interested and see that the class is full.
This workshop is led by Arbutus Folk School Fiber Artist in Residence Kelsey Magnuson. It is offered at no cost to participants so that anyone who is interested is able to attend. Thank you to the Washington State Arts Commission, the National Endowment for the Arts, and local community members for making this program possible. If you would like to make a donation to Arbutus Folk School to support this program and others, please click on the link!
All tools will be provided, but participants will need to bring items of old (and ideally clean and unwrinkled) clothes (jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, bed sheets, etc.). Students will be making an approximately 2 foot long rug and, depending on how big each is, will need 5-10 of any clothing item...or a big bed sheet! Think about the colors and thickness you would like to achieve. For example, rag rugs made with all denim material tend to be thicker and more durable. Using different materials and especially material with stretch or shrinkage will also add a different texture to your rug.
Please note that the class will take place in an upstairs space not currently serviced by an elevator, and students will need to navigate a long flight of stairs.
Appropriate for all skill levels.
Class takes place at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, Olympia. Click the link to see the looms in Marjorie's Loft that will be used for this class.
*If you register for a spot, please be sure to let us know if you are no longer b
e able to attend, so that we can offer your spot to waitlisted students right away.
