Ply-Split Braiding Workshop
12/04/2025 – 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM
Tutor: Kay Hawkins, The Braid Society
When: Saturday 12th April 2025
Time: 10am to 4pm
Cost: £30 members, £45 non-members. Plus £6 per person for materials (pre-prepared cords).
Level: Beginners
Max class size: 10
Where: Wyvis Room, Strathpeffer Community Centre, School Road, Strathpeffer IV14 9AG
To book: via Highland Guild website http://hgwsd.co.uk/forms/ before 15th March 2025. See important note below.
What to expect:
This will be an introductory workshop to a braiding technique called “ply-split braiding”. There are two basic ply-splitting techniques – ply-split darning and ply-split braiding, from which a range of variations are derived. Traditionally, these two ply-splitting techniques have been practised in three locations in the world
(India, Greece and South America), using highly twisted, 2, 3 or 4-ply cords, made from natural materials such as goat hair, cotton or linen. These techniques are used to create flat, wide braids, such as camel girths and regalia in India, decorative trims for clothing in Greece and straps for mochila or Wayuu bags in South America. However, contemporary artists experiment with both 2D and 3D sculptural pieces and a range of different materials. A selection of ply-split pieces will be brought to demonstrate the versatility of this technique.
During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to make 3 – 4 ply-
split braiding samples. We shall use pre-prepared, mercerised cotton, 4-ply
cords in a range of colours. Participants will also be provided with a tool called
a “grip fid” for use during the workshop. Methods of making plied cords will
also be demonstrated and participants can have a go if they would like to.
For those who would like to continue with this technique, the following will be
available:
• Books on ply-split braiding by Julie Hedges (£10 – £20 each).
• 5mm grip fids (£15 each).
• Information on where to purchase cord winders and pre-prepared cords.
See The Braid Society website (www.braidsociety.com/books) for more
information on Julie’s books.
What to bring:
• Notebook, pen, camera (if you would like to make notes/take photos).
• Cash (if you would like to purchase a grid fid or any books).
• Desk top lamp/hands-free magnifying glass/reading glasses (if you need these for close work).
• Please bring your own lunch and drink; we will have access to the kitchen for making hot drinks.
Important Booking Note:
As usual, our workshops are open to non-Highland Guild members. Bookings for non-members will not be confirmed until 16th March 2025 (i.e. the day after the bookings deadline), when they will be treated on a first-come-first-served basis.