Classes / Workshops

2400 Faussett RD Howell MI 48855 - 810-923-11362400

Refer to the blog for additional fiber info and workshops that have been scheduled in case you want to participate. (Equipment Use and materials additional cost ) (All Class Descriptions, Scheduled Dates, Tuition Fees, and other associated Costs are subject to change without notice). WE ARE TRYING A NEW METHOD OF SCHEDULING TO ACCOMADATE EVERYONES BUSY LIFE STYLE

Gate House Fiber Arts Private Lessons and Small Workshops:

For more information and to arrange the days and times that work between Monday and Sunday depending on availability please call 810-923-1136. Local Hotels are available for out-of-town students.

Tuition: We are offering 2 hour teaching blocks by appointment only at this time. Cost is $30/hr. If need be you can schedule multiple days and weekly depending on your needs. Group classes will be offered in the future

2020 and going Forward

Private Lessons: Throughout the year PRIVATE LESSONS are offered in a variety of subjects, by arrangement with the instructor. One to four consecutive days. Groups of up to four people may be arranged to reduce the cost person.

Choose from any of the weaving styles or Learn to spin, Spin special fibers, or Create designer yarns. Or spend a day or two exploring dyes.

Continuous Strand Weaving on Triangle, Square Loom or variety of Pin Loom shapes:

In two to three days, complete a triangle shawl, square blanket or other textile using the simple, unique continuous strand weaving method. Learn a few intermediate or advanced techniques, such as twill, leno lace, double, plus color patterns such as plaids and color blending. Or, in just one day, weave a smaller project, such as a face cloth, hat, or scarf.

Navajo Weaving: (and other forms of tapestry)

Warp a frame loom and learn basic Navajo weaving techniques and color joins. In two to three days, Students should finish a sampler, learning finishing techniques for the tight ending using a small table top loom.

Four to Eight-Shaft Weaving:

Beginning students will warp a 4 shaft loom, complete a project, learn threading and weaving techniques and how to read and understand pattern drafts and basic weaving theory. Intermediate students will select a weave structure in 4 or 8 shafts that interests them and develop a project using a variety of yarns available in the shop.

Rigid Heddle Weaving:

Learn a quick, easy warping method so you are actually weaving in no time. $30/hr. Your fee is discounted with purchase of a Rigid heddle loom from Gate House Fiber Arts.

Inkle Loom Weaving:

Weaving for narrow belts, straps or ribbons in one or two days.

Spinning:

Beginning students may learn basics of spinning, choosing and skirting fleece, cleaning, carding and combing techniques, spinning on spindles and on a variety of spinning wheels. Designer Yarn students will learn color and fiber blending and Navajo 3-ply techniques. They will create novelty yarns such as slubs, knop, marl, core-spun, loop, and feather yarns, among others. Spinning Special Fibers students will dress distaffs and spin flax, and spin silk from several preparations, spin cotton and other fine fibers on charkas and taklis, and will comb wool. Design your own lesson.

Natural Dyeing Or Acid Dyes:

Spend a day or two working with Betty Forsyth while mordanting and dyeing yarns or fleece. Learn techniques for evoking rainbows of colors , depending upon the time of year. Taylor your lesson to your interests.

Spinning Lessons:

3 - 2 hour sessions are recommended for beginning students $30/hour. This fee is discounted if you purchase a spinning wheel from Gate House Fiber Arts.