Fibers & Weaving   

Learn the fundamentals of weaving on a four-shaft loom. This foundation class focuses on loom set up, understanding basic weave patterns (plain weave and twill variations), double weave construction and material considerations. Creating sound structure and developing good weaving habits will be emphasized. Reading drafts will also be covered. Each student will have the exclusive use of a floor loom for the semester. NOTE: This class requires the ability to stay focused with good coordination and hand dexterity. Materials and supplies will be provided in the tuition fee; optional materials will be discussed in class. NOTE: This class is a prerequisite to 2005 Intermediate Weaving.

This program is designed for advanced student-artists who wish to pursue their own direction in weaving. Acquiring new structural and manual skills and exploring new materials will be emphasized. Individual planning sessions along with some group instruction will allow students to proceed at their own pace. A two-week dye lab will also be part of the curriculum offered. Each weaver will have exclusive use of one of the Fibers Department’s large collection of floor looms. Prior to registering: Students must contact the Fibers Department, casey.galloway@utsa.edu, by Mar 31; and if approved, students will be contacted by e-mail on or before Apr 1 and must register by May 14. The instructor reserves the right to restrict enrollment. Prerequisite: Introduction to Weaving & Intermediate Weaving or equivalent experience.

This program is designed for advanced student-artists who wish to pursue their own direction in weaving. Acquiring new structural and manual skills and exploring new materials will be emphasized. Individual planning sessions along with some group instruction will allow students to proceed at their own pace. A two-week dye lab will also be part of the curriculum offered. Each weaver will have exclusive use of one of the Fibers Department’s large collection of floor looms. Prior to registering: Students must contact the Fibers Department, casey.galloway@utsa.edu, by Mar 31; and if approved, students will be contacted by e-mail on or before Apr 1 and must register by May 14. The instructor reserves the right to restrict enrollment. Prerequisite: Introduction to Weaving & Intermediate Weaving or equivalent experience.

This program is designed for advanced student-artists who wish to pursue their own direction in weaving. Acquiring new structural and manual skills and exploring new materials will be emphasized. Individual planning sessions along with some group instruction will allow students to proceed at their own pace. A two-week dye lab will also be part of the curriculum offered. Each weaver will have exclusive use of one of the Fibers Department’s large collection of floor looms. Prior to registering: Students must contact the Fibers Department, casey.galloway@utsa.edu, by Mar 31; and if approved, students will be contacted by e-mail on or before Apr 1 and must register by May 14. The instructor reserves the right to restrict enrollment. Prerequisite: Introduction to Weaving & Intermediate Weaving or equivalent experience.

This class is designed for intermediate weavers who wish to pursue a deeper understanding of weaving. An in-depth exploration of several weaving structures, materials, loom control and designing independent projects will be emphasized along with refreshers on dressing a loom and reading a draft. The class will begin with a group project and work up to individual projects. Each weaver will have exclusive use of one of the Fibers Department’s large collection of floor looms. Prior to registering: Students must contact the Fibers Department, casey.galloway@utsa.edu, by Mar 31; and if approved, students will be contacted by e-mail on or before Apr 1 and must register by May 14. The instructor reserves the right to restrict enrollment. Some materials and supplies will be provided in the tuition fee; See website or link below for supply list.  Prerequisite: Introduction to Weaving or equivalent experience.

Discover the history, tradition, and craft of handmade brooms. This one-day workshop will focus on broom making materials, tools, and a variety of traditional tying and weaving techniques. Students will leave the class with at least one hand broom of their own making, and a strong foundational knowledge to continue practicing the craft at home. NOTE: Moderate hand and body strength is needed. Includes most materials, see link below or website for a list of supplies; please bring a bag lunch. 

Feltmaking is widely considered to be one of the oldest and simplest processes for creating fabric and textile forms. Applications can be functional or decorative, even conceptual with infinite creative possibilities from hangings, garments, jewelry, and more. It is a wondrously versatile fabric as it can be made as light and fragile as a piece of lace or strong and durable enough to make into a dwelling. The technique is quick and easy to grasp. Through the simple layering of wool fiber, a little soapy water and a generous amount of friction, magic happens! This class will cover all aspects of wet feltmaking techniques, including both flat felted fabrics and simple three-dimensional forms. Includes most materials; see link below or website for a list of supplies; please bring a bag lunch.

Discover the art of cyanotype and transform natural fibers into stunning photographs. In this class, you’ll blend art and science by harnessing the sun’s rays to create unique textile pieces and wearable art. You’ll explore the history and science of cyanotype, learn to mix and handle non-toxic chemicals, and experiment with various fibers. Embrace sustainability by turning gently used clothing into your own beautiful creations. Includes some materials: see website or link below for a list of materials and please bring lunch.

This introductory course offers a practical and creative approach to darning as a method of textile repair and reinforcement. Students will learn foundational darning techniques used to repair holes, thinning fabric, and high-wear areas in garments such as socks, sweaters, and denim. Instruction will cover tools and materials, fabric preparation, and both traditional and visible darning methods. Emphasis is placed on developing hand-sewing skills that extend the life of clothing while encouraging thoughtful, sustainable making practices. Students will complete guided practice samples and gain the confidence to apply these techniques to their own garments. No prior sewing experience is required. Includes some materials; see link below or website for a list of supplies. 

Twist, loop, and shape wire into body-inspired sculptures in this playful, hands-on workshop. Participants will begin by practicing looping techniques around a rock, then create a simple tape mold of a body part to serve as the foundation for a sculptural vessel. From there, students will build up wire forms through repetition, rhythm, and experimentation. This workshop is process-focused and encourages exploration over perfection. No prior experience is necessary. Basic wire will be provided. Students are welcome to bring colored or textured wire if they’d like to experiment with different visual effects; see link below or website for a list of supplies; please bring a bag lunch.