HomeStudy Groups

THSG Study Groups

The Tucson Handweavers and Spinners Guild has 10 study groups that meet monthly during the active membership year, September through May. Study groups meet at Unith Church, 3617 N. Camino Blanco, Tucson.

The study groups provide a welcoming environment to those seeking to learn a new craft or expand on their current knowlegde. We also meet informally on the first Saturday of the month in the Harmony from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Beads, Braids and Beyond

We welcome all who wish to learn more about many varied braiding techniques, both on the marudai and the disc, including Japanese Kumihimo, Andean bling braids, beaded braids, and all the ways of using combinations. In addition, we explore a variety of other beading techniques: peyote, right-angle, loom, crochet, ropes, and beyond. Beyond these braids and beads, there may be techniques such as macramé that we can explore. Beginners to the very experienced can gather together to share information, tips, our work, and our creativity.

Bead, Braids and Beyond meets the first Thursday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Felting

The felting study group focuses on fun and creativity. Those interested in the ancient art of feltmaking have a chance to join together and explore the limitless possibilities felt has to offer. As an art form, it crosses many boundaries and incorporates the joys of painting, sculpture, surface design, and fiber work. We have all levels of experience in the group. If you are curious about making felt, join us, and see what felting is all about. All are welcome!

Felting meets the first Wednesday of the month from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Knit and Crochet

The knit and crochet study group is open to all with an interest in learning more about knitting and/or crochet, increasing their knowledge and skills, and trying new techniques. Beginners and advanced crocheters and knitters will all benefit from sharing with the group in a supportive environment. Project participation is not required; those who want to sit and knit and/or crochet are more than welcome.

Knit and Crochet meets the second Saturday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Little Looms

Little Looms share and learn about rigid heddle looms, inkle looms, pin looms - basically any loom not multi-shaft. Welcome!

Little Looms meets the first Thursday of the month from 9:00 am to 10:30 am.

Natural Dye

Members of the natural dye study group possess a wide spectrum of expertise from beginners to commercial artists with a desire to improve their skills. Dyers have experimented with cochineal and different plants, and with different processes to dye yarn, fabric, and fiber. We rely on each other to share experiences and support each other. If you are curious about natural dyes or wish to improve your skills and knowledge, please join us.

Natural Dye meets the first Tuesday of the month from 10:00 am to 12 noon.

Rug Making

The rug making study group is open to all who are interested in rug making, including beginners to the more advanced. The group’s commitment is to try new techniques, designs, and materials while helping each other in the process. We learn about different weave structures and discuss things we have learned or need some help with. We have wonderful show-and-share at each meeting. Every year, we study a different technique. Members will weave an item to show and explain the process, what they learned, or just discuss the fun of making this project to the group.

Rug making meets every second Tuesday of the month from 10:00 to 12 noon.

Spinning

All spinners and anyone interested in spinning are welcome to the spinning study group. Meetings are held on the third Saturday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. A beginner session is available from 10 to 12 upon request.

This is an active, helpful and imaginative group. Traditional wheels, drop spindles, e-spinners, carders, cotton, wool, synthetics, exotics, new techniques - we try it all. We usually pick a study focus for the year and always welcome participation at all skill levels.

Spinning meets every third Saturday of the month from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Tapestry

The tapestry study group is open to all skill levels. The group's main purpose is to encourage and support members in their tapestry adventures. The group selects an annual project, and each member is encouraged to participate. Projects include the interpretation of a theme and the study of various tapestry weave elements.

Tapestry meets every second Saturday of the month from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.

Wearable Arts

The wearable art study group welcomes anyone interested in making or embellishing wearable items. We focus on sustainability by challenging members to repurpose materials in the creation of something new and wonderful. The meetings focus on education, sharing, and problem solving. Generally each meeting will focus on a technique or material including a presentation and if possible a hands-on activity with follow up of results at subsequent meetings. Time is allowed in each meeting for members to present their work or to ask for suggestions to solve a project problem.

Wearable Arts meets every third Tuesday of the month from 10:00 am to 12 noon.

Weaving (multi-shaft looms)

The weaving study group welcomes weavers of all abilities who wish to explore a variety of weaving structures and techniques.The study group usually decides on a structure or technique to study for the season. In the past, members of the group have created swatches of the structure or technique to share. Members have also volunteered to weave a structure or technique and then shared their experiences with the group. The group has show and share during each meeting and reserves time at the end of the meeting for troubleshooting.

The weaving study group meets every first Thursday from 10:30 to 12 noon.

﻿