My name is Robin Whitehurst and I’m a small loom weaver. Weaving is one of the oldest and most storied artforms in human history. It has a language of its own, a lifecycle and a fascinating story.

 

It is ‘textile art’ in which two distinct sets of yarns or threads - called the warp and weft - are interlaced with each other at right angles to form a fabric or cloth. The warp threads run length-ways on the piece of cloth, while the weft runs horizontally.

 

I find weaving to be meditative and relaxing nature of the craft, the opportunity for self-expression and creating unique items, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering a new skill. I am by no means a ‘master’ and the journey to be a ‘master’ is forever but challenging and rewarding.

 

I enjoy the process of design which includes cartooning, choosing the fabrics and colors - whether simple or complex. I own several small looms; all with their own personality and purpose. One day I’m weaving on my table top tapestry loom, creating abstract patterns, objects or scenes and another day I have my twining loom out and creating a colorful rug or mat. And then another day an order arrives asking me to create a unique fabric trivet and color coordinating weaved bowl. I love the variety.