Our tutor was tapestry weaver Alastair Duncan (https://alastair-duncan.com/tapestry-weaving), and our theme, reflecting the date, was the autumn equinox.  Alastair started off with a power point and talk about his journey as a tapestry weaver, and his approach to design.  In tapestry weaving light, texture and yarns all work together, so choice of materials is crucial and may be influenced by where the finished work is to be hung.  Alastair doesn’t usually work with a cartoon, preferring to design as he weaves.  Recently he has been working on interactive pieces where the viewer is encouraged to touch elements in the weaving to hear sounds.  He used to draw his designs, now he is sometimes making 3D models.  He brought a range of samples of his work for us to look at, and a wide selection of yarns for us to use on the day.

Before we started work Alastair checked our looms and warps, advising individuals on suitable warp yarn and on how to achieve a good warp tension.  He then spent time with each individual, looking at their design ideas and making suggestions for tackling them.  When things came up which were relevant to the whole group, such as how to get an even weft tension, he gathered us together and demonstrated.  I liked his gentle approach and the way he gave help when and where needed.  I don’t think any of us wove very much, but I didn’t expect to, and I do feel inspired to keep working on what I started!  A very enjoyable and worthwhile day.

Stephanie Hoyle