Get Weaving

Members of the Devon Weavers Workshop present a collection of rugs, wall hangings, cushions, bags, woven apparel and scarves. Each piece has been hand woven in Devon from a variety of fibres, including wool, linen, hemp, silk, cotton, rayon and bamboo, and some items are naturally dyed.

There will be on display a small weaving loom, where members of the workshop will demonstrate their techniques. There will also be an area set aside to show the work of people who have only recently begun weaving, which may encourage other potential beginners when they see what can be achieved.

Devon Weavers' Workshop originated at the Craft Education Centre at Dartington, with a class taught as part of the local adult education programme. The equipment associated with weaving requires a permanent space, and by 2004 the team of enthusiasts had managed to secure premises near Totnes. Within a few months Devon Weavers Workshop was officially launched, gaining charitable status, successfully applying for its first National Lottery Award of £5000 for the purchase of eight new Louet looms, and affiliating to the National Association of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers. In 2008 the Workshop received a second National Lottery Award to help finance the purchase of a computer-controlled, 16 shaft Louet Megado loom, offering more advanced weaving to an ever increasing membership.

Courses at the Workshop are much in demand, from beginner level to advanced weaving courses attracting tutors and students from home and overseas.

Members organise regular exhibitions at the Workshop itself, and at other venues in the region, as well as taking part in events such as National Trust Craft Fairs, and The Contemporary Craft Fair at Bovey Tracey.

Weavers exhibiting at Harbour House include Kay Balmforth, Gail Bryant, Jill Davies, Rosemary Durant, Sue Dwyer, Ann Holl and Colleen Pope.

www.devonweaversworkshop.org

For more information visit http://www.harbourhouse.org.uk/gallery-devonweaversworkshop12.html