Learn how to weave patterned Sámi bands using a double slotted heddle and backstrap with Susan Foulkes, designer/weaver, author and Durham Weaver blogger. The course will take place over 2 days and will include an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the Conservation Lab, looking at band weaving artefacts in the Museum. The patterns that are to be worked on are based on these artefacts and include shoe ties, headbands and belts.
The Sámi are the indigenous people of northern Sweden, Norway, Finland and Russia. Crafts developed that utilised wool, reindeer hide, sinews and antlers. The traditional weaving tool used to produce patterned bands is the rigid heddle carved from reindeer antler.
Included in the costs are booklets of patterns, threads, a ready prepared modern 9 pattern slot heddle and shuttle and a sandwich lunch on both days.
Students will take home a piece of patterned weaving mounted in a key ring fob and a woven bookmark, plus two booklets of patterns, which can be used to produce a range of small items. They will also have acquired the skills to weave at home using their modern heddle and shuttle from the workshop, enjoying a weaving hobby that can be stored in a shoe box!
Suitable for beginners or more experienced weavers wanting to extend their skills. Limited numbers.