Adventures in Double Twill

A new online workshop coming in February 2027

A single layer of twill is full of potential, so just imagine what we can do with two!

For many weavers, twill can be an entry point to double weave processes, because it is the obvious choice for weaving a blanket wider than the loom. This is a really useful application, but only the very smallest slice of the potential which double twill offers.

In this class we are going to explore two main branches of the double twill tree:

Pattern-making

We will look at interchanging layers, varying the twill structure and direction, colour-and-weave effects, incorporating colour and more.

Joins and folds

We will consider how to join two layers of twill for different applications such as tubular scarves and, yes, weaving a blanket wider than the loom.

We will work on eight shafts, but we’ll also consider the possibilities of extending to sixteen shafts or more.

Loom constraints

I want to incorporate as much variety as possible into this class, but I am also conscious that variety can be ‘expensive’ for those working on floor looms.

Floor looms with treadles will be suitable for this class if you have either rising or sinking shafts and at least ten treadles. Looms with countermarche action or with only eight treadles will not be suitable. You’ll have a range of weaving options to choose from, but even so, be prepared for some re-tying!

Table looms and dobby looms (mechanical or computer) will always be suitable.

Who is this class for?

This class is for you if you have an eight-shaft loom (noting the constraints above) and some experience of double weave on 4 or 8 shafts.

If you haven’t done any double weave before, then I recommend starting with my online workshop Understand Double Weave on 8 Shafts (which does include some bonus content on double twill as well!)

If you are not sure whether you are ready for double twill, then feel free to email me. I will be compiling an FAQ page for more guidance as we progress.

Technologically speaking, you will just need access to the internet and to Zoom. You won’t need to use weaving software, though you are welcome to do so if that suits you.

How will it work?

Please note that I am still developing the schedule for this class, and will be able to share more information later in the year. However, the model will be familiar to those of you who have taken an online workshop with me before.

For this course I will be asking you to dress your loom before we begin. Full instructions will be provided and optional zoom classes held to offer guidance and troubleshoot any issues that arise. The zoom class will be recorded for those who cannot attend. From that date you will also have access to our friendly and inclusive discussion forum at Weaving Space Online. The group will be limited in size, so that we can get to know each other and foster a real class community.

When we begin the ‘class proper’ we will be able to get started on our weaving straight away. There will be live zoom sessions every Tuesday during the course and at the end of the final week. Each week I will introduce the next topic, share examples and answer your questions.

There will be two different class times every Tuesday, so you can pick the time that suits your schedule or time zone best – or switch around, if your commitments vary from week to week. The second session will be recorded so that you can catch up later if necessary.

On Fridays there will be an additional ‘drop-in’ session, which is not recorded. This is an informal session for asking questions, sharing weaving tips and making the most of our international community of weavers.

In addition to our live classes, there will be a host of pre-recorded learning materials which you can access at any time and which will be available to you forever. These include slide presentations, video demonstrations, written transcripts and interactive worksheets. You can use them all at your own pace.

You’ll also be invited to join the class community at the Weaving Space Online community hub, where you can get support from me and share your progress with fellow students. This is a privately hosted space on Circle, so there is nothing to distract us from the weaving!

Now what?

Over the next few months I will be busy planning and building the course, and will share more information as it takes shape! If you want to stay in touch with what is happening and ensure you get access to booking when it opens, then the best thing you can do is join the waiting list:

Have a question?

Please email me! I look forward to hearing from you.

Finally, don’t listen to me, listen to these weavers: