Tablet Weaving: 3/1 Twill - A Most Remarkable Discovery in the Realm of the Tablets 2026

IN PERSON REGISTRATION ONLY. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS CLASS, PLEASE STOP BY THE REGISTRATION DESK AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE CLASS START TIME.

Class Time: Sunday, April 26, 2026 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM with 1 hour break

Location: St. Louis Community College - Meramec Campus, 11333 Big Bend Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122. Check in at Registration 15 minutes prior to class starting at PE Building for location.

Room: Student Center, Room 125

CONTACT NOTE: Failure to provide your email address and/or opt out of marketing updates will result in no communication from the Festival about updates or from your  instructor. Our system does not permit us to reach you through other means. If you choose to decline and do not provide an email address, please ensure that all necessary details have been noted down.

The class fee includes admission to the Vendor Marketplace every day of the festival; April 24 - 26, 2026.

Instructor: John Mullarkey (Instagram @malarky.crafts)

“Yes, Virginia—there is twill in tablet weaving.”
So begins one of the more delightful revelations in the study of this ancient craft, and in this workshop we shall examine it with the full curiosity and precision of a Baker Street investigation.

Students will explore the 3/1 twill, a double-faced technique that produces striking diagonal lines—patterns as crisp and intentional as clues in one of Holmes’ casebooks. We begin by mastering a rapid circular warping method, ensuring a smooth start before delving into:
- The structure and mechanics of the 3/1 twill
- How to weave clean, balanced twill lines
- How card direction, turning sequences, and color placement conspire to create elegant, deliberate geometry

This is a workshop for the focused and the curious: prior tablet weaving experience is necessary, and keen concentration, like that of any good detective is required.

Note: There will not be time to wind off yarn during class, so please arrive with all four yarn sources ready.

Skill Prerequisite: Intermediate to Advanced

Ages: 18+

Supplies:

Included in Class Cost: Handouts

Additional Supplies Needed: 

• Inkle-style loom (Note: Ashford Inklet is too small to tablet weave on)
• 20 four-hole cards
• Belt shuttle
• Scissors
• Four balls or cones of 10/2 mercerized or unmercerized cotton or #10 crochet thread
  • Each ball must be at least 1 ounce
  • Two balls of one color
  • Two balls of a contrasting color

Supplies can be purchased at Yarncom. Inkle Looms can be special ordered if out of stock.

Homework: None.

Class Policies

• The class minimum is 4 students. If we are unable to fill these spots, we will cancel the class and provide a full refund.
• By signing up for this class, you have admission to Friday Night Vendor Marketplace Preview.
• If a class is sold out, click here to be placed on the Wait List.
• No refunds will be issued after April 1, 2026.
  
• For any cancellations prior to April 1, 2026, a $25 administrative fee will be assessed.

Photo Credit: John Mullarkey