Beginner Rigid Heddle Weaving Workshop
Discover the joy of weaving, one thread at a time
Would you love to learn how to weave but are not sure where to begin? This one-day workshop is designed for complete beginners who want to discover rigid heddle weaving in a welcoming, practical and accessible setting.
With guidance from your instructor, you will learn the essential foundations of weaving while creating your first project: a beautiful Pima cotton scarf or cowl to take home. You will leave not only with a finished piece, but also with the knowledge and confidence needed to continue weaving on your own.
Your registration also includes access to our online course Premiers Pas, so you can review the techniques covered during the workshop and revisit each step at your own pace.
At a glance
✔ One-day introductory workshop
✔ No experience required
✔ Weave your first Pima cotton scarf or cowl
✔ All equipment and materials provided
✔ Includes access to the online course Premiers Pas
✔ Small group for personalized guidance
Practical information
- Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
- Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (if needed, you may return during the following week or on the next Saturday to complete your project)
- Duration: One day
- Location: Tisse et File, 571 Saint-Jean-Baptiste Blvd., Mercier, Quebec, in the Montreal area
- Level: Beginner
- Language: French, with English assistance available upon request
Is this workshop right for you?
This workshop is designed for anyone who would like to discover rigid heddle weaving with no previous experience.
It is an excellent choice if you:
- want to learn strong foundations from the beginning;
- prefer guided, hands-on instruction;
- want to understand what you are doing rather than simply follow a recipe;
- are looking for a creative practice you can continue at home;
- would like to complete a first project during the workshop.
No previous weaving experience is required.
By the end of the workshop, you will be able to...
- Identify the main parts of a rigid heddle loom and understand their purpose.
- Choose an appropriate yarn for a simple project.
- Understand sett and calculate the number of warp ends required.
- Warp a rigid heddle loom correctly.
- Weave a first project with growing independence.
- Complete the basic finishing steps for your woven piece.
- Continue learning with the included online course.
What you will make
Throughout the day, you will weave a Pima cotton scarf or cowl, selected for its softness, ease of use and beautiful drape.
Each stage of the project allows you to apply the techniques as they are introduced. You will leave with your woven piece, a clear understanding of the basic weaving process and the confidence to begin future projects.
What is included
All equipment and materials required for the workshop are provided.
- Rigid heddle loom ready for use.
- Yarn required to complete the scarf or cowl.
- Small weaving tools.
- Reference materials.
- Access to the online course Premiers Pas.
What to bring
To make the most of your day, please bring:
- something for taking notes;
- comfortable indoor shoes;
- your curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
You do not need to bring a loom or any weaving tools. Everything is provided on site.
Why learn at Tisse et File?
This workshop is not limited to completing a single project. It is designed to help you understand each stage of the process so you can continue learning with confidence.
- A progressive approach created specifically for complete beginners.
- Hands-on learning through a complete project.
- All equipment provided, allowing you to try weaving before purchasing your own loom.
- Personalized guidance in a small group.
- Access to the online course Premiers Pas after the workshop.
- Practical advice for choosing future yarns, projects and equipment.
A small-group learning experience
Enrollment is intentionally limited so each participant can work at her own pace, ask questions and receive individual guidance.
This format encourages discussion and allows the instructor to support you through every stage, from warping to the finishing of your scarf.
Your instructor: Chantal Renaud
After a career in the health-care field, Chantal Renaud turned toward her passion for textile arts. Several years spent living in India deepened her interest in colour, fibre and traditional craftsmanship.
She now weaves on both multi-shaft and rigid heddle looms. She especially enjoys rigid heddle weaving for its simplicity, accessibility and creative possibilities.
A member of a Cercle de Fermières and the Lakeshore Weavers Guild, Chantal enjoys guiding beginners through their first weaving experience with a warm approach centered on the pleasure of learning, understanding and creating.
Continue your learning
Your registration includes access to the online course Premiers Pas. This allows you to review the concepts introduced during the workshop, revisit demonstrations at your own pace and prepare for your next weaving projects with greater independence.
After this introductory workshop, you may wish to:
- weave additional plain-weave projects;
- explore different fibres and yarn sizes;
- learn to use a pick-up stick;
- discover weaving with two heddles;
- join other in-person or online classes.
Discover more
Online courses Weaving looms Resources
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any previous weaving experience?
No. This workshop is designed for complete beginners.
Do I need to own a rigid heddle loom?
No. The loom and all required materials are provided during the workshop.
Will I finish my scarf during the workshop?
Most participants complete their project during the day. If needed, you may return during the following week or on the next Saturday to finish it.
What does the Premiers Pas online course include?
It allows you to review the main concepts covered during the workshop and return to the demonstrations when you begin weaving independently.
Is the workshop offered only in French?
The class is taught in French, but English explanations or translation assistance can be provided upon request.
Registration policy
Because class size is limited and materials are prepared specifically for each participant, registration is non-transferable and non-refundable.