National Spinning and Weaving Week

Two different crafts that often go together, spinning and weaving are ancient practices that are still relevant in modern times to producing all sorts of textiles and fabrics.

Spinning in the process of spinning raw fibers, like cotton or wool, into threads. Weaving uses the threads or yarn to layer threads over and under each other, typically on a loom, to create large pieces of fabric, rugs and other items.

National Spinning and Weaving Weeks is here to pay tribute to the rich history of these crafts and also celebrate their important contributions to the modern community of artists!

History of National Spinning and Weaving Week

The background of spinning and weaving can be followed at least 5000 years, all the way back to the Ancient Egyptians as well as India and China. Silk, linen, wool and cotton are all natural fibers that have been spun into thread and woven into cloth to make robes and garments for millenia.

As the Industrial Revolution brought with it technology that replaced the cottage industry, many people stopped spinning or weaving their own cloth and passed the duty onto more efficient machines.

Even so, the art and technique of spinning and weaving has not been abandoned! Passed down through generations by women and men who have an appreciation for the investment of handmade items, spinning and weaving is still very much alive today.

National Spinning and Weaving Week has been celebrated for at over a decade, with the first of such events dating at least as far back as 2009.

Developed through the support of a number of different artists, organizations and companies, this event invites the community of spinners and weavers from across the country – and around the world – to embrace and celebrate their fascinating craft!

How to Celebrate National Spinning and Weaving Week

Show some love for the beauty and intricacies of textile arts by observing National Spinning and Weaving Weeks with some of these activities:

Try Spinning or Weaving

One of the best ways to understand how much of an artistry and craftsmanship is involved in a method is by trying it!

In honor of National Spinning and Weaving Week, perhaps it would be fun to take a class and get some first hand experience with these beautiful forms of textile arts.

Attend a Spinning and Weaving Week Event

All throughout the country different textile art communities host events in celebration of National Spinning and Weaving Week.

This might include workshops, educational forums, classes, or even art galleries and exhibitions. Check out the listings at the Handweavers Guild of America and other local organizations for more specific information about participating in events.

Support Spinning and Weaving Artists

One of the best ways to show support for National Spinning and Weaving Week is to support local textile artists by purchasing their handspun and handwoven items.

Attend local craft fairs, stop by shops that sell handcrafted rugs or blankets, or perhaps visit a local sheep or alpaca farm that spins the wool into yarn and sells it!