In a world of computer-driven power looms, is there a need for handweaving? One might just as well ask if, in a world with photography, is there a need for painting. Handloom weaving is a creative and innovative act that is essential to the evolution of cloth.
Handloom is much more than simply weaving by hand. It is a relationship between the weaver and the loom which is open, permitting great flexibility in all aspects of the weave. In fact, so revolutionary are weave variations that their names are famous: damask, brocade, twill, muslin, jamdani, jacquard.
Many cultures have kept a living connection with weaving intact. Cloth is a source of pride and regional identity. It is also a reservoir of incredible skill. A high count cotton, for example, requires a knowledge of the growing conditions of the fiber, the mastery to spin a thread which is very fine, yet does not break under tension, the ability to prepare the warps and set-up the loom, and then the weavers intuition - for a high count cotton may only be woven for a few hours in the morning and again in the evening. At all other times humidity and temperature lead to either broken or tangled threads.
When performed at the village level, handloom is an inclusive activity. People weave in the same way they might read a book. A few hours in the morning, a break to prepare meals, some time in the afternoon, maybe a little after returning from the fields, a few hours in the evening. The family unit is not broken by factory work. Moreover such tasks as loom repair and maintenance, design work, yarn dyeing, loading bobbins and preparation of warps keep additional family members busy.
Located in the Net Loft in the Heart of Vancouver's Granville Island.
Open 7 days a week 10am - 7 pm
