Online Weaving Courses & Classes
Weaving isn’t difficult to learn.
The problem is that there is so much to learn!
How to warp a loom, weaving techniques, weaving patterns, how to finish a weave, etc.
Following a clearly structured weaving course can definitely be helpful for beginners. Or maybe you already understand the basics and you are just looking for a single class on for example weaving scarfs or wall tapestries.
But finding a weaving class nearby isn’t always easy.
That’s why this article will introduce you to several platforms where you can learn how to weave.
Where can I follow online weaving classes?
1 Skillshare
Skillshare is an online learning community where you can take thousands of classes. These classes can be on anything, ranging from weaving to investing. But most of them are related to arts and crafts.
They way that Skillshare works is that anyone can make and upload their own online course. So the quality can differ a lot from class to class.
To make sure that you pick a good one, you want to look at the reviews and results of the students that went before you.
Currently Skillshare has several courses on weaving. However, most of them focus on the basics of weaving and the courses overlap quite a lot.
There are also some related courses on yarn art and macrame that weavers might be interested in.
Skillshare isn’t the best place to find in-depth weaving courses. But they do have simple courses for beginners.
Moreover, if you want to take several classes at once (even if they are not on weaving) Skillshare is a great option. Since you pay a monthly fee and not per class you can learn as much as you want.
There is normally a 2 month free trial available for new members, so make sure to use it.
2 Bluprint
If you are looking to learn more than just the basics of weaving on a frame loom you can take a look at Bluprint.
This online learning platform focuses mainly on arts and craft and every course is taught by experts.
So you can expect high quality from each course and some more advanced topics as well.
When it comes to their weaving classes, there are several classes on rigid heddle weaving and even a introductory class on floor loom weaving.
You might also want to take a look at one of the other yarn related classes on quilting, knitting, sewing, crocheting, or embroidery.
If you want to take one of the classes on Bluprint you can pay per class, or you can go with the monthly payment plan that gives you access to all 1300+ classes they have.
Recommended classes
1 Intro to weaving: a project-based approach
If using a rigid heddle loom looks a bit too difficult and complex, you can always start off by using a simple frame loom.
Weaving on this type of loom is easier for most people since there are fewer steps involved and everything is done manually.
This class offers you the option of learning weaving online.
It will introduce you to different weaving techniques that are often used to create decorative hangings such as the plain weave, utilize rya knots, incorporate soumak.
Even if you don’t have a loom yet, the instructor will give you some cheap options such as making your own loom or using household items.
Course includes: 45 min of video
Level: beginner
2 Startup library: rigid heddle weaving
The rigid heddle looks a little different from the lap loom that most people are familiar with.
Since the rigid heddle comes with some added components it can be tricky to set up the first time you are using it.
However, once you learn how to use a rigid heddle you will be able to weave faster and more efficient than other types of looms.
This weaving course will teach you everything you need to know to get started.
You will learn all the weaving basics such as choosing the best weaving loom for beginners, setting up the loom, standard weaving techniques and patterns and how to finish a project.
After mastering these basics you will get the try your new skills through three different projects: a fringe bag, a striped scarf, and a plaid dishtowel.
There is even a special lesson dedicated to fixing common mistakes. Because let’s face it, we all make them!
Course includes: 4.5 h of video
Level: beginner
3 Pickup stick & finger control techniques
There is more to weaving than just the plain weave. Unless you want to make the same thing over and over again.
If you want to make original and unique designs, learning finger-controlled techniques and pickup stick is the way to go.
This weaving class will teach you how to make tapestry-like effects with picked-up loops, Ghiordes knots, and weft floats.
By combining different weaving patterns and techniques you will be able to make weave designs that the world has never seen before.
This class is a little more challenging so you will need to know the weaving basics before you start.
Course includes: 3.75 h of video
Level: intermediate
4 Next steps in yarn dyeing
To achieve the result you want, choosing the right yarn is crucial since it can come in a variety of different thicknesses and colors.
However, it is nearly impossible to find the exact color you want to use.
Rather than giving up on your creative ideas, why don’t you try coloring yarn yourself!
This online weaving workshop will teach you everything you need to know to start dyeing yourself.
By the time you finish the class, you will be able to create gradients, self-striping and hand-painted yarns using materials such as sock blanks, raw fiber and more.
You will never have to waste time online browsing for hours to find the perfect yarn.
Course includes: 1.75 h of video
Level: beginner
