Author: Harmony Weavers Guild

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Mexico – more than Rebozos

presented by Mary Jane Svenson
10:00 a.m. — via Zoom & In Person

I went in search of the rebozo. What I found was an amazing rich history of many crafts, including textiles and an abundance of current productive and creative artisans.

In February and March 2020. we traveled through Mexico in our Airstream as part of a caravan, crossing into Mexico at Nogales and traveling as far as Taxco, the silver city, south of Mexico City.

I had plans to spend time visiting weavers in two locations but due to Covid, my plans were cancelled. However, every market, shop and gallery featured the arts and crafts of their town, city, region. Museums and regional art centers provided the abundant textile history and information about specific regional crafts.

Included in the presentation (but not limited to) photos and/or examples I collected:

  • Overview of Mexico
  • Rebozos, history of and how/where they are oven — including ikat methods
  • Embroidery, examples and applications to huipils, runners, etc.
  • Beadwork by Huichol
  • Basketry of the Raramuri
  • Handwovens of Patzcuara – Tablecloths, bedspreads

January Meeting Place:
NEW ARK UNITED CHURCH of CHRIST
300 E. Main St.
Newark, DE 19711

If you are traveling west on East Main, the church is located on the right side of Main St., just past the Newark Emergency Room. If you pass the restaurant, “Grain on Main”, you have gone too far. There is a blue sign with white letters in front. The turn into the church is just before the sign. Please park in the back of the church. There are 3 handicapped parking spots in front of the church. Those parking in back can use the back entrance to the church.

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December’s Program

December 8 @ 11:00 a.m.
We are celebrating the holidays with an in-person gathering

The Celebration will include:

  • Opportunities to catch up with guild members;
  • A shared activity making needle-woven Dorset Buttons*;
  • Show and Tell of guild members’ works;
  • A short business meeting;
  • Delicious holiday food brought by our members!
  • Donation of Non-perishable food pantry items, or warm socks, gloves or hats

* For button-making, please bring: sharp scissors, a metal tapestry needle and 4 yards of yarn for each button you make – choose smooth, inelastic yarns, such as– 20/2, 8/2 or 5/2 cotton, embroidery floss or linen. Embroidery floss will also be available for your use if you prefer. Rings will be provided as foundation for the buttons.

What to bring:

  • Show and Tell
  • Mask (optional in accordance with CDC guidelines)
  • A food dish to share, and serving spoon as needed
  • Optional: your own silverware, to reduce plastic waste (we will provide, if you forget)
  • Optional: a chair for yourself – there will be chairs but we may run out (only 18 available)!
  • Non-perishable items to donate for food pantry, or warm socks/gloves/hats
  • Don’t forget the importance of Basics – flour, sugar, feminine hygiene products or diapers!

 

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Mad for Mad Weave

Presented by Gynnie Moody
November 10 @ 10:00 a.m.
October’s In person/Zoom Program
Triaxial weaving is adapted from a basket weaving technique intertwining three elements at unique angles. The program will cover its history, modern applications, and artistic adaptations. After a brief program, those who have registered will have an opportunity to create their own piece using ribbons. It will be a wonderful way to experience the magic of color interaction.
Mad weave is another name for Triaxial weaving and you will understand why as you are adding that third elements.
Registration and payment of a $5.00 material fee will secure your spot in the workshop. If you have not already done so and would like to participate, please contact Gynnie Moody. You may pay the material fee with PayPal no later than October 5. You will need to bring your lunch, a pair of scissors, and sturdy straight pins or T pins. Ribbons 7/8″ wide in a wide variety of colors will be provided, as well as, foam core boards and instructions. You will leave by 2:00 PM hopefully with a finished piece.
Gynnie comes from a family of makers and does not remember a time when she was not fascinated with textiles. She has traveled extensively focusing on textiles and has dabbled in a number of textiles arts. Her work usually reflects her interest in layering and creating an illusion of depth. She has been a member of Harmony Weavers Guild since the late 1980s.