Techniques and Tips for Double Cloth Drafting

Techniques and Tips for Double Cloth Drafting

On-Demand Web Seminar with Marica Weiss

Understanding how to create double cloth textiles may seem daunting to many weavers. In reality, this technique follows some basic rules that, when learned, may be applied to create a range of double woven textiles.  The joys of this construction include: the opportunity to reveal and conceal design and color elements, to create fully reversible fabrics, and to explore the numerous variations inherent in the technique.  This webinar will begin with a discussion of how to translate inspiration into rhythm for a threading plan (or harness draft).  The five steps to create double cloth block draws (or group drafts) will be reviewed, illustrated by textiles of these loom-controlled structures.  A discussion of the myriad variations that can be created through this technique will conclude the session.

Beginning with inspiration imagery, Marcia will share with you her creative process of developing a rhythm for the threading plan.  This will lead into a discussion of how block draws (group drafts) are used for double weave textiles.  Fabric samples will be shared, along with graph examples, to walk through the five steps needed to create double cloth weaves.  This includes the "secret step" to creating multi-layer wovens.   Explore six different structures:  horizontal tubes, vertical tubes, pockets, pleats, two separate layers and double width fabric.  Design and structural variations that can further enhance your double cloth textiles will be reviewed.  At the end of the webinar, you will have the tools necessary to create your own double layer woven textiles.  Multi-layer woven textiles have been Marcia’s passion for many years.  She hopes to inspire you to try your hand at double cloth.  Happy weaving!

What You’ll Learn:

• Explore new creative approaches to translating concepts and inspiration into threading plans.

• Discover the benefits of working with a block draw (group draft).

• Learn the five steps to creating double cloth weaves; including the "secret step".

• Expand your creative range with double woven textiles.

• Explore double cloth variations, iterations and inspirations.

Who Should Attend:

• Weavers and Designers who are interested in the creative possibilities of multi-layer structures.

• Weavers and Designers who want to explore a new approach to translating inspiration into double woven textiles.

• Weavers and Designers who want to learn a simple, five-step method for drafting double cloth weaves.

• Weavers and Designers who want to learn the "secret step" to creating double woven textiles.

• Weavers and Designers who want to understand block draws (group drafts).

About the Instructor:

Marcia Weiss is an internationally exhibited artist, associate professor and the director of the Textile Design program at Philadelphia University.  A specialist in woven design, Marcia teaches advanced studio courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels.  In addition to teaching and creating art, she is an active member of the textile design industry, providing consulting services on color and trend, market research and design and technical support.  Marcia’s fiber-based work has been exhibited in solo shows in the U. S. and France, as well as in juried shows and invitationals.  Her current body of work—double cloth ikat—is inspired by Central Asian ikats, West African narrow strip weaving, and a rich tradition of Pennsylvania German quilting.

All items in the library are intended for personal use. Please do not distribute without written approval.