Workshops & Events
Workshops are held throughout the Chicagoland and central Midwest ranging from one-day events to multi-week courses. Maggie Leininger's experience as a university professor provide students with an extensive and in-depth knowledge of a wide range of fiber techniques in weaving, spinning, dyeing, off-loom construction and much more. Interested in hosting a workshop? Contact us to learn more about a tailored unique experience for you and your group. Other events include various fiber festivals and art markets throughout the Midwest and Southeast. Join the mailing list to get additional discounts at our online events.
Upcoming Events
1 / Distaff Day!
Sunday, Jan 11th, 2 - 4 pm
609 South Boulevard, Evanston, IL
Fee: $20
Technically, the day after Epiphany, Distaff Day is a favorite day of many handweavers and spinners as this is the day spinning and weaving resume after the holidays in European cultural traditions. Start the New Year with a fun activity and stop in to try your hand at using a drop spindle, experience the difference between various fibers, and discover what can be done with handspun yarn. While this is more of an informal demonstration rather than a full-fledged workshop, attendees will be able to learn the basics of spinning yarn by hand. Register here.
2 / Tapestry Weaving on a Pocket Loom
Saturday, January 24th, 10 - 12:30 PM
Fiber Friends
1744 East 55th Street
Chicago, IL 60615
Learn the basics of tapestry weaving using a simple frame loom. Play with different yarns and their various properties to create basic structures and forms. This is a perfect workshop for those seeking an introduction to fundamental techniques with no prior knowledge or experience of weaving. Participants will create a one-of-a-kind design that can be used as a bookmark, wall hanging, or any other idea that comes to mind! The material fee includes a purchase of a wooden frame loom and accessories, three spools of hemp yarn of your choice, and an instructional guide. Go here to register today!
3 / Small Batch Yarn Dyeing
Saturday, February 7th, 10 AM - 12:30 PM
Fiber Friends
1744 East 55th Street
Chicago, IL 60615
Are you interested in learning how to dye yarn in the privacy of your own kitchen? Learn how to use a low-water dye method using your microwave! Ideal for the hobbyist dyer looking to dye a small amount of yarn for a specific project or to make something truly unique. This workshop will provide students with the opportunity to dye 4 mini-skeins of wool yarn with the option to purchase additional yarn for future projects at home. Participants will be given a how-to guide on best practices of dyeing, dye recipes, and links to the dyes used during the workshop. Go here to register!