Using the Mediaeval Bow Loom with the South Shields

Class Time: Friday, April 25, 2025, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Lunch Break at 12 PM

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.

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Instructor: Robin Goatey of The Dancing Goats

The Mediaeval Bow Loom and the South Shields ‘Pickup Selvedge’ Heddle from Roman Britain is used to make a Shoelace with a durable edge. A lost technology brought back to life with this class.

The mysterious ‘4 Corner Hole’ heddles are found across Europe, across time and across ‘hole & Slot’ configurations. This class demonstrates their use to make the durable ‘Tapes’ that were needed for the ornate footwear in the Roman Empire.

Class discussion will include the history of the Bow Loom and the small Roman Heddles found throughout ancient Rome, the shoes from Vindolanda Fort on Hadrian’s Wall and other periods of European History.

We will use Cotton 8/4 Carpet Warp. Provided with the class

This class has a morning and afternoon session, taking a 1 hour break for lunch.

Skill Prerequisite: None.

Ages: High School, Adult

Supplies: Included in Class Cost

• Cotton 8/4 Carpet Warp
• Bow Loom Kit (if selected)

Additional Supplies Needed: As an Option, Bring Fine weight yarns for the Weft. Wool, Silk, Linen & Cotton are fine.

Homework: None.

Class Policies

• 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, 2025.
  
• For any cancellations prior to April 1, 2025, a $25 administrative fee will be assessed.