Introduction to Rigid Heddle Weaving
Discover the joy of weaving… one thread at a time
Would you like to learn how to weave on a rigid heddle loom and build a solid foundation from your very first project? This one-day course guides you through all the essential steps involved in creating your first handwoven piece, from warping the loom to finishing.
The goal is not simply to guide you through making a scarf, but to help you understand what you are doing so that you can continue learning with greater confidence and independence.
This course is designed for people with no previous weaving experience.
This course is offered periodically at Tisse et File. No new date has been announced at this time.
At a glance
✔ One-day introductory course
✔ No prerequisites – beginners welcome
✔ Learn to warp and weave your first project
✔ Make a scarf or cowl using Sipan cotton
✔ Loom and all materials provided
✔ Access to the online Premiers Pas course included
✔ Maximum of 6 participants
Practical information
- Next date: To be announced
- Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Duration: One day
- Location: Tisse et File, 571 boulevard Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Mercier (Quebec – Montreal area)
- Level: Beginner
- Language: French (English translation available upon request)
- Maximum number of participants: 6
Is this course right for you?
This course is designed for anyone who would like to discover rigid heddle weaving and learn the fundamental skills needed to begin weaving independently.
It is ideal if you:
- have never woven before and want to start with a solid foundation;
- prefer to understand each step rather than simply follow instructions;
- want to learn how to prepare and warp a loom yourself;
- would like to discover weaving before investing in your own equipment;
- want to acquire the skills needed to create your own simple projects afterwards.
No previous weaving experience is required.
Why start with a rigid heddle loom?
A rigid heddle loom provides an accessible way to learn the fundamental principles of weaving using relatively simple equipment. From your very first project, you can learn how to prepare a warp, understand the roles of warp and weft, create a shed, handle a shuttle and observe how cloth is gradually constructed.
These fundamental skills provide a foundation from which you can develop many different projects and explore more advanced techniques, including pick-up techniques, weaving with two heddles and a variety of weave structures.
By the end of this course, you will be able to...
- Identify the main parts of a rigid heddle loom and understand their purpose.
- Choose an appropriate yarn for a first project.
- Understand the basic principles of sett and calculating the number of warp ends.
- Direct warp a rigid heddle loom.
- Set up your warp and prepare the loom for weaving.
- Weave a simple project independently.
- Finish your woven piece.
- Use the skills you have learned to plan your next projects.
What you will make
During the day, you will make a scarf or cowl using Sipan cotton. This project takes you through all the major stages of a first weaving project, from preparing the warp through to finishing.
You will leave with your creation and, most importantly, an understanding of the process that will allow you to repeat the different steps when you begin weaving independently.
Everything is ready for you
You do not need to own a loom to participate in this course. All the equipment and materials needed for your learning and for completing the project are provided.
- A rigid heddle loom for use during the course; you will learn how to warp it yourself.
- Yarn required to make the scarf or cowl.
- Small weaving tools and accessories.
- Reference materials.
- Access to the online Premiers Pas course.
Simply bring...
- something to take notes with;
- comfortable indoor shoes;
- your curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
No loom or weaving tools are required: everything is provided.
Why learn with Tisse et File?
At Tisse et File, we believe that learning a technique is about more than simply completing a project. Our goal is to help you understand the principles behind each step so that you can eventually create independently.
- Courses focused on understanding rather than simply reproducing a project.
- A progressive approach that respects each participant's learning pace.
- Small groups that allow for personalized guidance.
- Clear explanations designed to help you repeat each step at home.
- Guidance in choosing your equipment, yarns and future projects.
- An online course included so you can review the concepts after the in-person class.
A small-group learning experience
The course is limited to six participants so that everyone has the opportunity to ask questions, complete each step themselves and receive personalized guidance throughout the day.
You will learn the complete process, from warping the loom through to finishing your first woven piece.
Your instructor: Catherine Malichecq
Catherine Malichecq is the founder of Tisse et File and Cours Tisse et File. Passionate about textile arts for many years, she has progressively specialized in weaving and in understanding weave structures.
She is currently pursuing the Master level of the Guild of Canadian Weavers' Master Weaver program, having completed the Senior level.
Her teaching philosophy is based on a simple belief: understanding the principles of weaving allows you to become more independent, develop your creativity and approach new projects with confidence. Rather than teaching only a sequence of techniques or patterns, she helps participants acquire the knowledge they need to understand, experiment and gradually create their own work.
Continue your learning
Your registration includes access to the online Premiers Pas course. This allows you to review the concepts covered during the day and return to the demonstrations when you begin working on your own loom.
After this introductory course, you can continue by:
- creating new projects in plain weave;
- exploring different fibres, yarn sizes and setts;
- learning pick-up techniques using a pick-up stick;
- discovering weaving with two heddles;
- progressing toward the study and understanding of new weave structures.
Discover more
Online courses Weaving looms Resources
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any previous weaving experience to take this course?
No. This course is designed for people with no previous weaving experience.
Do I need to own a rigid heddle loom?
No. A loom is provided for the duration of the course, and you will learn how to warp it yourself during the class.
Will I leave with a finished scarf?
The goal is to complete the project during the course. If necessary, you will receive guidance for completing the final steps after the class.
What is included with access to the Premiers Pas online course?
The course allows you to review the main concepts covered during the in-person class at your own pace and return to the demonstrations when you begin weaving independently.
At Tisse et File, we believe that the most rewarding creations begin with understanding. Our courses don't simply teach you how to complete a project: they give you the knowledge you need to observe, understand, experiment and create with confidence.
Registration conditions
When a new date is offered, registration details and applicable conditions will be provided when registration opens.