Fibers and Weaving
The imagination can be freed working with textiles, where fiber art techniques such as shibori, batik, silk-painting, or block-printing can be adapted from global traditions, cultural symbolism, or the human imperative for mark-making.
Located on the two floors of the Priest's House on the Ursuline Campus, our 50 floor looms are considered to be the largest teaching collection in the U.S., and are enjoyed by an active community of adult student weavers.
Materials List
Classes not listed here will either have required materials in the class description, discuss needed materials during the first class, or the materials will be supplied.
Class details (meeting times, tuition, etc.) are listed below.
Tuition Assistance
A limited number of scholarships for tuition assistance are available for classes in the Fibers Department. Adults interested in studying fibers may apply for tuition assistance by submitting the application form and contacting Casey Galloway, casey.galloway@utsa.edu.
Fibers and Weaving Class Notes
Studio Practices: Limited open studio time for students enrolled in weaving classes will be determined at the beginning of each term; dates and times will be discussed in class and posted for students. For fiber related workshop classes, studio use is only permitted during the time of the workshop dates.
Registration Information
Classes are open-enrollment to the community. Class registration is a simple process. Read 'How to Register' below to get started. Click here to view all registration policies and guidelines, including information on payments, class withdraws and cancellations, refunds, and more.
- Click the 'Register Now' button below to begin the registration process.
- Click onto 'Sign In' at the top right side of the page.
- To sign in, enter your user name and password. If you do not have an account, you can create one quickly by specifying a user name, password, and email address.
- Navigate to your desired course. Click the 'Add to Cart' button associated with the course.
- After completing the registration process and remitting payment, you will receive an email containing your registration confirmation.
Registration - Friends
Registration is closed. To become a Friend, view benefit levels or sign-up to receive notification.
Opens August 6
9:00am
Registration - Community
Registration is closed. Fill out the sign-up form to recieve notification when registration opens.
Opens August 13
9:00am
Fiber & Weaving Classes - Fall 2024
Course Description
Learn the fundamentals of weaving on a four-shaft loom. This foundation class focuses on loom set up, understanding basic weave patterns (plain weave and twill variations), double weave construction and material considerations. Creating sound structure and developing good weaving habits will be emphasized. Reading drafts will also be covered. Each student will have the exclusive use of a floor loom for the semester. NOTE: This class requires the ability to stay focused with good coordination and hand dexterity. Materials and supplies will be provided in the tuition fee; optional materials will be discussed in class. NOTE: This class is a prerequisite to 2002 On-Loom Weaving Studio Projects.
Course Description
With the use of an iPad, computer, or other tablet (even a phone) fiber artists can move beyond photographic reproduction into artistic filters, drawing, painting and amazing digital patterns. This workshop includes drawing and painting, photo editing, special effects and pattern apps on an iPad (preferred) or similar tablet. A demo of working with Spoonflower, a fabric printing on demand company will be covered as well as how to construct a fused raw-edge collage appliqué art quilt using an inkjet-printed image, and how to mount a small quilt on a canvas frame. Participants will design a project using their own photo-based image, printed in class to take home for a sewing project. An iPad (iOS) or android tablet is required; see website for a list of materials and please bring lunch.
Course Description
This program is designed for intermediate and advanced student-artists who wish to pursue their own direction in weaving. Acquiring new structural and manual skills and exploring new materials will be emphasized. Individual planning sessions along with some group instruction will allow students to proceed at their own pace. Each weaver will have exclusive use of one of the Fibers Department’s large collection of floor looms and use of the dye lab. Prior to registering: Students must contact the Fibers Department, casey.galloway@utsa.edu, by Apr 2; and if approved, students will be contacted by e-mail on or before Apr. 2 and must register by May 6. The instructor reserves the right to restrict enrollment. Prerequisite: Introduction to Weaving or equivalent experience.
Course Description
Discover the history, tradition, and craft of handmade brooms. This one-day workshop will focus on broom making materials, tools, and a variety of traditional tying and weaving techniques. Students will leave the class with at least one hand broom of their own making, and a strong foundational knowledge to continue practicing the craft at home. All skill levels welcome. Moderate hand and body strength is needed. Includes most materials, see website for a list of supplies; please bring a bag lunch.
Course Description
Students will work with paper, fiber, cardboard, wood, plaster and found objects to create sculptural figures with metaphoric and cultural representation. Across time and cultures, such iconic figure sculptures have been created as objects of reflection, humanity, and protection. Based on the notion of spirit dolls and santos, the unadorned Wanderer figure provides a tabula rasa for your own expressions of meaning and message. This workshop covers the basic armature structure as well as variations in surface finishes and body design. Fiber art techniques include wrapping, knotting, surface design, layering and adhering with various media. Includes some materials; see the website for a list of items to bring to class; please bring a lunch both days.
Course Description
Discover the art of cyanotype and transform natural fibers into stunning photographs. In this class, you’ll blend art and science by harnessing the sun’s rays to create unique textile pieces and wearable art. You’ll explore the history and science of cyanotype, learn to mix and handle non-toxic chemicals, and experiment with various fibers. Embrace sustainability by turning gently used clothing into your own beautiful creations. Includes some materials: see website for a list of materials and please bring lunch.
Course Description
This intensive two-day class will lead students step-by-step through traditional flat tapestry weaving techniques. Tapestry is the most basic of weave structures; it offers the artist a wide range of visual possibilities. Students will learn how to prepare a warp and weave simple shapes. The class is designed for both beginners and those with experience wishing to refresh their skills. Looms and weaving materials will be provided; please bring a lunch both days.
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