Classes & Workshops
Textile Workshops & Classes
We run a variety of textile workshops here at the Handweavers Studio; from September these will take place in Verwood, Dorset. Our workshops regularly cover techniques of hand weaving on shaft, rigid heddle and frame looms, hand spinning yarn - workshops vary in length and skill level.
So whether you are a beginner, or looking to improve your skills we are sure that you will find the right workshop for you.
Our Diploma course is a two-year part-time weaving course for weavers who want to take their weaving to another level. Alongside this we also run a Certificate course which is a little slower paced. Please see below for more information on all of these.
Yarn Spinning Classes
In our Introduction to Spinning workshop (repeated regularly through the year) you will learn how to use a drop spindle and a spinning wheel; it is suitable for beginners and refreshers.
Complementing this class is a periodic Spinning for Improvers workshop where you can build confidence and expand your range of skills.
Loom Weaving Workshops
Our four day weaving workshop, Introduction to Weaving is suitable for beginners and refreshers, is repeated regularly throughout the year. Over the course of two consecutive days on two consecutive weeks you will learn how to get a loom ready to weave, experiment with a variety of yarns and weave structures, learn how to read weave notation and how to finish your cloth once it’s woven. You will take home your woven samples and a substantial handout!
Alternatively our one day Learn, Make & Take workshop introduces the simpler rigid heddle loom. In this class you not only learn how to set it up, but you’ll even be able to take home a finished scarf to show off your new skills.
Through the year improvers and advanced weavers are offered various technique workshops designed to enhance and expand their weaving repertoire.
Tapestry Workshops
In our taster afternoon Modern Tapestry workshop you will learn how to set up a peg frame loom, and then as you are introduced to a a range of basic tapestry techniques you will weave a small sampler hanging to take home - this is an ideal class for friends and family members to do together.
Workshop programme
Please check our upcoming workshop programme where you will find a list of our workshops and classes.
The Handweavers Diploma
The Handweavers Diploma is a core part of our teaching programme, you can see the 2025-2027 prospectus here. Places for this cycle have already been filled, but if you are interested in receiving information for the next one when it becomes available you can register an early interest by email.
Work from some previous Diploma groups can be seen below.
The Handweavers Certificate
The Handweavers Certificate course which runs alongside the Diploma, there are a few places available for the cycle commencing September 2025. Details for this course can be seen here. If you would like to discuss the possibility of enrolling please contact Dawn by email.
