While clean lines and modern decor may reign supreme in 2016, the rise of handmade textiles in counterpoint is not to be dismissed. A weaving made with care can cozy up any space, and indie makers are setting the trend for fresh designs and creative techniques. We visited Noelie Harmon for a look at some handwoven pieces available there.
JUNIPER & FIR
These macrame weavings are made to order for Noelie Harmon from textile and fiber art studio Juniper & Fir, based in Southern California.
OPTIONS WEAVING STUDIO
The unique textiles from Options Weaving Studio are made in Hammond by adults with disabilities who have found work through fiber art.
DO IT YOURSELF
A beginner’s guide to weaving
1. It’s all in the loom. Beginners who aren’t ready for a big financial commitment can find small, lap-sized frame looms on Etsy for under $50. Or, make their own using washi tape and an open-back picture frame. If in doubt, go with something simple, like the 8×10-inch weaving kit sold by Savvie Studio out of Denton, Texas, to start.
2. Get the right tools. In addition to a loom, you’ll need plenty of weaving needles, yarn and warp thread (heavy cotton thread that provides the framework for weaving).
3. Master the basics. YouTube tutorials are an amateur weaver’s best friend. Keep practicing, and look at local and regional weavers such as Lafayette’s Kat King Tapestries and Mandeville’s Harper + Noelle Handmade for inspiration.
4. Go local. To take your designs to the next level, try some locally sourced materials, like hand-dyed roving from Sheep Sprouts in Lake Charles or handspun yarn from DebbieB Handmade in New Orleans. Local store Knits by Nana also retails some high-quality yarn and supplies.
