Saori Classes
Consistent with Saori philosophy and our vision of offering a destination for creative expression through fiber arts, we recognize that each individual is on their own journey and works at their own pace. As such, we offer open studio time* and occasional topic-specific mini workshops*.
I see my role as your Saori “guide,” offering suggestions, resources, and materials that will enhance your creative experience. Coming to the studio, connecting with weaving friends, and savoring the time you set aside for yourself and your creative explorations may become the high point of your week!
Consistent with Saori philosophy,
each individual is on their own journey.
*Please check our COVID Policy for the current studio status and rules for visiting the studio.
The studio is a place to become comfortable with the Saori loom, learn weaving techniques, gain inspiration and share ideas, or simply get “into your zone,” independently weaving an on-going piece of unique art. One student may be interested in learning to create their own beautiful warp, while another may be at the sewing machine making a one-of-a-kind garment from their hand-woven cloth.
Works in progress can be detached and re-attached from our Saori looms, and we provide storage space for projects between visits. This flexibility allows for multiple students to use a limited number of looms, working on their projects during their scheduled sessions and storing their work between sessions.
Classes
There are three ways to experience SAORI weaving with us: Schedule open studio time where you can explore and play at your own pace receiving guidance as needed; half- or single-day topic-specific mini workshops; and 1-day or 3-day SAORI intensives.
Open studio time is available by appointment on Wednesdays and Fridays. Workshops and one-day SAORI intensives are generally scheduled on Fridays, and occasional Saturdays. Three-day intensives are scheduled as needed.
Registration: During these unusual times we prefer to schedule classes via email rather than scheduling time online. Please fill out the form at the bottom of this page to let us know you’d like to register for a class.
Payment: Payment is required in advance. Once we’ve scheduled your appointment, we will email you an invoice that can be paid online, in addition to appointment confirmation and specific directions to the studio.
Class Fees: Unless otherwise noted, mini workshop fees include all essential weaving materials. Additional “luxury” yarns, ribbons, and other materials are available for additional purchase in the studio. Fees for open studio time and intensives do not include the cost of materials, which are generally $5 per ounce and are calculated upon project completion.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations received at least 48 hours in advance of scheduled sessions, classes, or workshops are eligible for a full reimbursement. Cancellations received with less than a 48-hour notice will receive no refund, but may be applied to payment for future sessions.
Mini Workshops
Experience SAORI Weaving!
Begin your SAORI journey in this playful 3-hour mini workshop!
This mini workshop will introduce weavers of all experience levels to the history behind SAORI and Japanese founder Misao Jo’s unique approach to weaving, and how she became one of the most globally influential weavers of all time. Emphasizing Misao’s philosophy and the four SAORI slogans, we will explore the forgiving, “no-mistakes” nature of SAORI weaving as we experiment with SAORI techniques, texture, and of course, color! Focus is placed on the unique aspects of the user-friendly SAORI loom that will make your weaving experience so easy and enjoyable!
Students will weave on pre-warped SAORI floor looms with all materials provided for creative discovery, and will complete the class with a one-of-a-kind expression of your unique self!
Materials Required: All supplies included in workshop fee
Experience More SAORI Weaving! (SAORI Saturday)
This mini-workshop covers all aspects of the “Experience SAORI Weaving” class, but with additional time to learn more techniques and to create a more substantial piece of woven art. Time is added to also discuss finishing techniques and ideas for creating an end product (like a wall hanging, a pillow cover, a bag or tote, etc.)
Feel free to bring a sack lunch and take a break whenever needed.
Materials Required: All supplies included in workshop fee
SAORI Creativity Continues: Making your own Warp!
We all love the brilliantly created SAORI Limited Edition Ready-Made Warps. Many newcomers to SAORI weaving are a bit daunted, however, by the thought of making their own custom warps. We’re here to help! As described on the Saoriglobal.com website, the Kenzo warping method is a revolutionary way of warping that cuts the time required for warping in half compared to the conventional way.
What we love about the method Kenzo, Misao Jo’s third son, came up with for warping and threading is that one can either thread at a table or at directly on the loom. Kenzo has so brilliantly economized motion and made dressing the loom so efficient and enjoyable, we’re inspired to create several warps at a time!
In this 5-hour mini-workshop, students will make one short 3-meter warp (~39”) and have threaded it on a SAORI inside set by the end of the session. If time allows, students are encouraged to make another warp to take home, and then save the threading for another time.
* This class is designed for SAORI students who either own or have access to a SAORI loom and 1-2 inside sets. For those who do not, please reserve and purchase an inside set in advance to leave at the studio fully warped and ready to work on at your next visit.
Materials Required: Workshop fee includes use of equipment and all supplies for the first 3-meter warp. Additional warp supplies will be subject to the usual supplies cost of $5/oz.
Freestyle Weaving Using a Rigid Heddle Loom
Curious about weaving? Have your heard about “freestyle” weaving and are wondering what it’s all about? Come join in the fun!
This 5-hour mini-workshop introduces participants to the limitless creativity of weaving freestyle! Use simple, portable looms that are all set up and ready to go (or, using weaving terminology, you’ll weave using a pre-warped, 15″ rigid heddle loom) to create a beautiful work of textile art. We’ll focus on the creative, inspirational aspects of color and texture, along with many weaving techniques used in both traditional and SAORI weaving.
In our relaxing setting, students will experience creative freedom as they remove the barriers to creative flow without fear of making mistakes or not knowing the “rules.” SAORI’s Zen-like philosophy can inform weaving on ANY loom. What you learn in this workshop can be useful on a loom you might have at home or access to.
This workshop is suitable for the complete beginner or the experienced conventional weaver interested in exploring a different mindset in weaving.
Materials Required: All supplies included in workshop fee
Open Studio Time & Saori Intensives
Open Studio Time
Open Studio Time is where the magic happens! Community is built, friendships are made and our creative voices sing together! Students are gently guided as their exploration of SAORI weaving, warp making, and simple yet flattering clothing design continues. Students are able to move freely about the studio depending on their interest for the day.
Pre-Requisite: Students must have previously taken an “Experience SAORI Weaving” class (or similar workshop by a registered SAORI instructor).
Open Studio Time is offered on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm.
Cost: $45 for each 3-hour session, plus cost of materials, for the first 3 sessions. After that, each 3-hour session is $20/session, plus cost of materials.
Please reserve your spot in advance.
SAORI Intensives
SAORI Intensives offer students a focused time of learning and fun! They are designed especially for out-of-towners who want to maximize their learning into a concentrated time frame. Those living locally may schedule an Intensive as well.
We are now offering two Intensive options:
Contact Us to Sign Up for a Class
Please fill out the form below to inquire about learning SAORI weaving! Once we receive your request, we’ll get in touch via email to get your session or class booked. Once scheduled, we’ll email you an invoice. Payment using credit card, PayPal, or Venmo will secure your spot.