Warped to WOW! Multi-Shaft Work Session
With Myra Chang Thompson
Are you still a little unsure of how to proceed with your next weaving project because warping the loom has you wondering or confused?
This one day warping refresher class is just for you! Come to class prepared with the next project you’d like to tackle and all the questions you have about the wonders of warping.
We will review sett, pattern, pattern repeats, and all calculations. Using the yarn of YOUR choice, you will warp your next project using the front-to-back method!
A demonstration will refresh your skills in sleying the reed, threading the heddles, tying on (with or without doups), packing, tying on to the front cloth beam and, the all important step: tensioning your loom.
We will go at a slow and steady pace, allowing you to take notes or pictures of the process that have left you stumped in the past.
- Skill level Beginner +
- Age appropriate 18+
- Materials fee $10
- Students should bring
a snack, beverage, the warp you want to use on this project, scissors, measuring tape, color samples (from magazines) and whatever else will help you have a successful day.
Instructor
Ray TaylorRay was born in the rural Catskill region of upstate New York. Early exposure to fiber arts came through his mother’s quilting and sewing, as well as participation in 4-H, where foundational handcraft skills were first cultivated. These interests were rekindled in 2021 after encountering New Mexico’s deeply rooted textile traditions.
Upon joining the Las Arañas Spinners and Weavers Guild, Ray met Myra Chang Thompson, who provided sustained mentorship, private instruction, and encouragement. For his first several years of focused study, Ray worked exclusively on the rigid heddle loom, exploring its structural and expressive range. He studied in workshops with Sedona Rigsby and Liz Gipson, while continuing mentorship with Chang Thompson. His technical and conceptual development has also been informed by the writings of Betty Davenport, Jane Patrick, and Petra Marciniak.
More recently, Ray has expanded his practice to include inkle weaving under Annie MacHale and tapestry study with Sara Goldenberg White. He facilitates a monthly rigid heddle study group, continually pushing the structural possibilities of what is often considered a modest loom. His projects have included wall hangings, rugs, and sabanilla cloth intended for colcha embroidery.
Prior to retirement, Ray’s professional life centered on recruiting, developing, and mentoring talent. Guiding others as they discover weaving—and the satisfaction inherent in disciplined craft—has proven a natural continuation of that work.
