4th Session of the Practical Skills Workshop Series “Tablet-Woven Belts and Edgings”

THE GROUP IS FULLY BOOKED!
The practical skills workshop series “Tablet-Woven Belts and Edgings” provides an introduction to one of the oldest belt-weaving techniques. Evidence of tablet weaving dates back to ancient Egypt; during the Middle Ages, it was widespread throughout Northern Europe, and the technique is known around the world.
Tablet-woven textiles are dense, firm and highly durable. Tablet weaving combines twisting and weaving, and its Latvian name derives from the tool used in the process – the weaving tablet.
On 8 May, from 17:00 to 20:30, we invite you to the 4th workshop, “Attaching a Woven Edging to Woollen Fabric”. The workshop will provide a brief introduction to the different methods of attaching edgings found in Latvia. Participants will create a sample of an edging attached to woollen fabric.

The workshop is led by Dagnija Pārupe.
Number of participants in the group – 10.
Fee for one workshop – EUR 5.00.
To register for the workshop series, please email inita.malnaca@riga.lv.

Archaeologists have found evidence of tablet-woven elements in clothing in Latvia dating back to the 6th century. Historically, tablet-woven bands were used to create fabric edges when weaving on upright looms, as well as to secure and decorate clothing. Over the centuries, elements made using the tablet-weaving technique have been found in clothing from all regions of Latvia, and numerous examples can be seen in museums. Tablet weaving remains an essential skill today when creating a traditional Latvian folk costume.
The programme covers the tablet-weaving techniques found in Latvia – from simple herringbone or striped tablet-woven belts to belts and edgings with individually picked patterns, as well as techniques for attaching woven edgings. Practical training will be complemented by theoretical knowledge about the use of tablet weaving in Latvia’s archaeological and ethnographic heritage, as well as an understanding of how to prepare yarn correctly and select the appropriate tools.
The workshop series is organised by KTMC “Mazā ģilde” with the support of Riga City Municipality.