My Textile Workshop Adventures in Italy
Discovering the Threads That Connect Weaving, Fashion, and History
What do six-harness Diamantina twill, silk lint, Renaissance fashion, and Jacquard looms have in common? They're all part of Karen Gelbard's textile adventures in Italy! Through photographs, stories, and discoveries from Italian weaving workshops, Karen explores techniques, traditions, and the fascinating connections between textiles and history.
My Textile Workshop Adventures in Italy
Discovering the Threads That Connect Weaving, Fashion, and History
What can a handweaver discover while studying textiles in Italy? As it turns out, quite a lot!
Join Karen Gelbard, The Oregon Weaver, for an illustrated journey through her textile workshop experiences in Italy, where centuries of weaving traditions, innovative techniques, and remarkable stories of fashion come together.
From exploring the structure of a six-harness Diamantina twill to learning about silk lint and the extraordinary capabilities of Jacquard looms, Karen shares discoveries that expanded her understanding of textile design and production.
Along the way, we'll meet Eleonora di Toledo, a 16th-century noblewoman whose influence helped shape Renaissance fashion in Florence. Her story reveals the close relationship between textiles, clothing, craftsmanship, and the social history of dress.
Through photographs, workshop experiences, and personal observations, Karen reflects on the techniques and traditions she encountered and the ways they continue to inform her thinking as a contemporary handweaver and garment designer.
Part travel adventure, part textile history, and part creative discovery, this presentation invites fellow weavers to explore the threads that connect us to generations of makers who came before us.
Approximately one hour of illustrated PowerPoint presentation, followed by time for audience questions and discussion. Available in person or remotely.
Duration / Format
Venue, equipment, and participant requirements will be confirmed before registration opens.
Workshop Information
N/A
