Children Learn the Craft of Weaving!

Several sessions have already taken place in the weaving workshop, where children are learning this ancient craft under the guidance of an experienced craftswoman. As weaving can currently be learned in Preiļi only at the Art School, with the aim of making it available to other children as well, it is now also offered by the “Family Support Centre ‘Puķuzirnis’” association במסגרת the project “Comprehensive Support Measures to Reduce Social Exclusion among Young People and Families with Children”.

The first sessions were devoted to learning the basic weaving technique by working with colourful strips of paper. During the first session, the children were allowed to combine the “warp” freely, according to their own preferences, whereas in the next session they deliberately selected suitable paper “threads” to create a harmonious piece. Once their hands had become accustomed to the work, the children finally began using small looms, where each started weaving a piece according to their own ideas—one is making a scarf that they will be able to wear or give to a friend, another a little blanket for a kitten, and yet another a decorative interior item incorporating felt “threads”. The work is progressing very smoothly indeed: when first trying their hand at weaving, the children were initially able to weave only a couple of centimetres, but in subsequent sessions the fabric has visibly grown. This is clear proof that anything can be learned—all that is needed is a skilled teacher and patience. Moreover, weaving is not only for girls but also for boys, who have already joined the sessions, since in ancient times the most skilled weavers were men, as weaving on large looms is physically demanding work. Many creative pieces will likely be made during the summer, and at the end of the year they will also be displayed in an exhibition together with the works created in the clay workshop.

On 19 June, young people will also be able to begin learning weaving skills in the workshop. The weaving instructor has planned lessons on making wide bookmarks and, depending on preference, weaving decorative bands or belts, as such items have become increasingly popular over the past year, as can be seen on social media. In addition, the weaving workshop is not only an opportunity to spend time meaningfully and usefully once school is over, when going to the countryside is unfortunately not possible; it is also an excellent way to express oneself creatively.

Anita Gāga

Board Member of the “Family Support Centre ‘Puķuzirnis’” Association