Beginning Loom Weaving with Laura Demuth and Sheila Oberreuter

If you are interested in learning how to weave on a floor loom but have little or no experience with weaving, this class is designed for you. You will be introduced to basic weaving terminology and skills, such as how to make a warp, dress a loom, and read threading drafts. We will explore both balanced and overshot structures. The projects selected for this class will focus mainly on traditional Norwegian weaving drafts and structures. We will discuss finishing techniques including treatment of ends and blocking. You will be introduced to the use of natural fibers, primarily wool and cotton. You will have the opportunity to weave two projects during class. Laura Demuth has been a weaver for over 40 years and enjoys all aspects of fiber production, from raising the sheep to taking a finished piece off the loom. Because she lives on a small acreage just seven miles northeast of Decorah, Vesterheim has been a continual source of education and inspiration throughout her weaving career. Laura has focused on traditional weaving structures and techniques, and is a Vesterheim Gold Medalist. She has taught classes in traditional Scandinavian weave structures at Vesterheim and John C. Campbell Folk School. As a crafty kid with an interest in history, folk art was bound to lure her in. After taking a weaving class from Vesterheim in 2019, she quickly fell down the fiber arts rabbit hole. And it has been a great adventure so far! Drawing inspiration from history for artistic inspiration fueled an early interest in ceramics from around the world. Branching out into weaving has opened up a whole new world to explore. Learning about the endless ways that people have created objects in the past is fascinating and inspiring and encourages Sheila to try techniques for herself. She is looking forward to seeing where the weaving path will take her and exploring this great opportunity! Vesterheim offers a 60% discount for in-person class tuition on a space-available standby basis to any year-round resident living within 50 miles of Vesterheim. Students will be notified about the availability of an opening in the class 21 days before the starting date of the class period. Discounts do not include materials fees. If local area residents want a guaranteed place in a class, they must pay regular class tuition. The local standby option is supported by Decorah’s Depot Outlet.