Alan Oliver Handweaver, Dyer & Print Maker
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It has been a privilege to meet Alan, hear about his interests and work and to weave in his studio. Alan is extremely friendly, knowledgeable and gives all necessary instructions for students to acquire a basic understanding and practice of weaving on 4-8 shaft looms. I strongly recommend this course which is suitable for complete beginners or as a refresher ; it has certainly given me the confidence and motivation of exploring further this wonderful craft/art.
SibylleI spent 4 really interesting and inspiring days with Alan in his studio. Day 1: experimenting with different yarns, weaves and colour on 2 different looms, a 4 shaft and 8 shaft table loom Day 2: preparing the warp, learning how to plan a project, calculate the yarn, winding and tying off the warp on a warping board. More time experimenting with different weaves and twills Day 3: setting up a modern 8 shaft loom - putting on and spreading the warp, threading the heddles and sleying the reed. More weaving Day 4: weaving on the set up loom, working on a sampler and experimenting with waffle weaves Plenty of time to chat, get to grips with different tools and experience the process. Alan is generous with his knowledge, support and biscuits. In 1860 six of my great grandmother’s family worked in the Lancashire cotton mills. I’ve just bought a second hand loom on eBay and I’m all set to start my weaving journey.
JoannaIt has been a privilege to meet Alan, hear about his interests and work and to weave in his studio. Alan is extremely friendly, knowledgeable and gives all necessary instructions for students to acquire a basic understanding and practice of weaving on 4-8 shaft looms. I strongly recommend this course which is suitable for complete beginners or as a refresher ; it has certainly given me the confidence and motivation of exploring further this wonderful craft/art.
SibylleI spent 4 really interesting and inspiring days with Alan in his studio. Day 1: experimenting with different yarns, weaves and colour on 2 different looms, a 4 shaft and 8 shaft table loom Day 2: preparing the warp, learning how to plan a project, calculate the yarn, winding and tying off the warp on a warping board. More time experimenting with different weaves and twills Day 3: setting up a modern 8 shaft loom - putting on and spreading the warp, threading the heddles and sleying the reed. More weaving Day 4: weaving on the set up loom, working on a sampler and experimenting with waffle weaves Plenty of time to chat, get to grips with different tools and experience the process. Alan is generous with his knowledge, support and biscuits. In 1860 six of my great grandmother’s family worked in the Lancashire cotton mills. I’ve just bought a second hand loom on eBay and I’m all set to start my weaving journey.
Joanna