Intro to Rigid Heddle Weaving Class, May 2nd & 3rd, 2026

Over the course of the workshop you will learn the basics of planning, preparing, warping, weaving, and finishing your first simple project on a rigid heddle loom. This workshop is appropriate for complete beginners – you do not need to have a loom or any prior weaving experience.

This is a two day workshop, Saturday, May 2nd & Sunday, May 3rd from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Class size is limited, please sign up early to reserve your spot!

Curious about weaving? In this welcoming two-day workshop, you’ll learn the fundamentals of rigid heddle weaving while creating a summery cotton scarf. Rigid heddle looms are compact, versatile, and beginner-friendly, making them a wonderful introduction to handweaving. All materials and use of a rigid heddle loom are included with your registration. Ages 16+ welcome!

Over the course of the weekend, you’ll learn how to plan your project, warp the loom, weave with consistent tension, and finish your fabric neatly. By the end of class, you’ll have woven an elegant cotton scarf and gained the skills and confidence to start your next weaving project at home.

We’ll work with smooth cotton yarns that highlight color while producing a soft, breathable fabric perfect for everyday wear.

This class is ideal for complete beginners as well as knitters, crocheters, and fiber enthusiasts curious about weaving.

All materials and equipment are provided, including a rigid heddle loom and yarn for your project.

Students will learn:

• How a rigid heddle loom works
• Reading a pattern and planning a project
• Basic weaving vocabulary
• Direct warping onto the loom
• Plain weave technique
• Managing edges (selvedges) and tension
• Hemstitching for a clean edge
• Removing fabric from the loom and preparing it for finishing

Wet finishing and final fringe or hemming will be demonstrated and discussed so you can complete your scarf at home.

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Project

Students will weave a lightweight cotton scarf in multicolored cotton. Approximately 8–10 inches wide × 60–70 inches long (plus fringe).

If you're still weaving when class ends you may continue to work on your project in the classroom during regular business hours through the Saturday following the end of class (May 9th), however staff support and instruction will not be available.

Skill Level

Complete beginners are welcome — no weaving experience required.

Materials & Equipment

All materials and tools are included:

• Rigid heddle loom
  • (Please let us know ahead of time if you prefer to bring your own loom! We'll confirm whether your loom/heddle will be appropriate for the class. The loom must be fully assembled and in working order before you arrive for class.)
• heddle and shuttle
• cotton yarn for warp and weft
• shuttles, warping pegs, threading hook, and other hand tools

Students are welcome to bring a notebook for taking notes.

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Save when you learn at Halcyon Yarn!

Students receive a 10% discount on the day of, and for two weeks following, your class. Our way of encouraging you to keep on making!

After registering you'll receive an email containing complete class details and policies.

See all class policies, including cancellation information, here.

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Instructor Bio:

Gretchen Jaeger is a lifelong weaver who loves helping new weavers begin their journey! As co-owner of Halcyon Yarn she brings her decades of experience to helping weavers find just the right tools and materials to discover their own voices through the creation of handmade cloth. Gretchen has a deep appreciation for natural fibers, weaving, and dyeing, and is grateful for the opportunity to explore these crafts with her students.

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All classes are taught in-person at Halcyon Yarn, 12 School St., Bath, Maine, unless otherwise noted.

Accessibility: There are no steps required to enter the store, classroom, or restroom. Parking is available on-site. Our classroom is adjacent to a restroom, and chairs, tables, and studio tools are provided. If there’s anything we can do to assist you, please let us know in advance.

We will have a half hour break for lunch each day, several good eateries are within walking distance if you need to pick something up on your way to class. Complimentary organic tea is provided in our classroom, and a small fridge and microwave are available for your use during the class. Please be mindful of allergies and food sensitivities.

Learn more about our classroom & see upcoming events here!

Student discount is valid the day of, and two weeks after the class start date. 10% off is valid only on regularly stocked items and does not apply to the purchase of gift cards, clearance, or special order/drop-shipped items. Discounts cannot be combined.