Beginning Band Weaving Workshop

Discover the art of band weaving

For centuries, woven bands have been used to decorate garments, strengthen textiles and create beautiful, functional accessories. Today they remain popular for their versatility, durability and endless creative possibilities.

During this one-day workshop, you will weave your first decorative band on a loom designed specifically for this technique. With step-by-step instruction and personalized guidance, you will discover the essential skills needed to continue weaving confidently at home.

No previous weaving experience is required. This workshop is designed for complete beginners who would like to explore a traditional textile craft that remains both practical and creative today.

At a glance

✔ One-day beginner workshop
✔ No previous experience required
✔ Weave your first decorative band
✔ All equipment and materials provided
✔ Small class (maximum 6 participants)
✔ Personalized instruction throughout the day

Workshop information

• Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.)
• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• Location: Tisse et File, 571 Saint-Jean-Baptiste Blvd., Mercier, Quebec (Greater Montreal area)
• Level: Beginner
• Language: French, with English assistance available upon request
• Maximum class size: 6 participants

Is this workshop right for you?

This workshop is perfect for anyone who would like to discover a simple, enjoyable and highly versatile weaving technique.

It is an excellent choice if you:

• have never woven before;
• are looking for an easy textile craft to learn;
• enjoy making useful handmade items;
• would like to personalize your textile projects;
• want to discover a traditional craft that is still relevant today.

No previous weaving experience is required.

Why learn band weaving?

Band weaving is one of the most accessible forms of weaving. The loom is compact, quick to set up and allows you to create beautiful, durable bands in a relatively short time.

Woven bands can be used for belts, straps, bag handles, key fobs, bracelets, decorative trim, historical costume accessories and countless other creative projects. Once you understand the basics, you can easily experiment with new patterns, colours and designs.

By the end of the workshop, you will be able to...

• Understand how a band loom works.
• Warp and prepare the loom correctly.
• Read and follow a simple pattern.
• Create attractive colour combinations.
• Weave an even, consistent band.
• Recognize and correct common weaving mistakes.
• Continue weaving independently at home.

What you will make

Each participant will weave a decorative band using one of several colour combinations prepared for the workshop.

Because everyone works at a different pace, the finished length may vary. The goal of the workshop is to develop the correct techniques and confidence needed to create many future projects on your own.

Everything is ready for you

All equipment and materials are provided so you can focus entirely on learning.

• Band loom provided for the day.
• Shuttle and weaving accessories.
• Yarn for your project.
• Printed reference notes.

Please bring...

• a notebook if you wish to take notes;
• comfortable indoor shoes;
• your lunch.

If you decide to continue band weaving after the workshop, it is usually possible to purchase the same loom used during the class, or another suitable model, depending on availability.

Why learn with Tisse et File?

At Tisse et File, we believe that learning a technique is about more than completing a project. Our goal is to help you understand the principles behind every step so you can continue creating with confidence and independence.

• Workshops focused on understanding rather than memorizing.
• A progressive teaching approach designed for beginners.
• Small classes with personalized guidance.
• Clear explanations that are easy to apply at home.
• Honest advice on equipment, yarn and future projects.
• Passionate instructors eager to share their experience.

A small-group learning experience

Enrollment is intentionally limited to six participants so everyone receives individual attention throughout the workshop.

This format encourages discussion, hands-on guidance and personalized instruction, allowing each participant to progress at a comfortable pace.

Your instructor: Françoise Trépanier

Françoise Trépanier has been passionate about weaving for many years. She discovered the craft through her aunt, Marie-Reine, who introduced her to traditional textile techniques.

She is an active member of the LaSalle Weavers' Guild and the Association des tisserands du Québec, and has completed numerous workshops through the Association des Tisserands d'Ici (ATI).

Françoise teaches band weaving, card weaving and backstrap weaving. She is appreciated for her clear explanations, patience and encouraging teaching style that helps beginners feel confident from the very first project.

Continue your weaving journey

Band weaving is often the first step toward many other narrow-band weaving techniques. Once you have mastered the basics, you will be able to explore increasingly creative projects.

After this workshop, you may wish to:

• weave more intricate bands;
• experiment with different fibres and colour combinations;
• create belts, straps, bag handles and decorative accessories;
• discover card weaving;
• explore backstrap weaving and other traditional weaving techniques.

Discover more

Frequently Asked Questions

I have never woven before. Is that a problem?
Not at all. This workshop is specifically designed for complete beginners.

Do I need to bring my own band loom?
No. The loom, yarn, shuttle and all necessary equipment are provided.

Can I purchase a loom after the workshop?
Yes. Depending on availability, you may purchase the same loom used during the workshop or another suitable model.

Will I finish my band during the workshop?
Everyone progresses at a different pace. The primary goal is to understand the technique and develop the skills needed to continue weaving confidently at home.

What can woven bands be used for?
Woven bands are commonly used for belts, straps, bag handles, bracelets, decorative trim, historical costume accessories and many other creative textile projects.

At Tisse et File, we believe that the most beautiful creations begin with understanding. Our workshops go beyond completing a project—they provide the knowledge needed to observe, understand, experiment and create with confidence.

Registration Policy

Because class size is limited and materials are prepared specifically for each participant, registrations are non-transferable and non-refundable.