Family friendly

Woven Bag Workshop

Sun Dec 21, 14:00 - Sun Dec 21, 17:00

The Village Square

ABOUT

This method combines traditional weaving with sewing techniques to create a fashionable, durable ladies woven bag ready for everyday use. Using wool to make a ladies woven bag, the process involves weaving and finishing techniques to handle wool's unique texture and properties:


  • Weave the wool weft yarns through the warp strands in an over-under pattern, maintaining even tension but avoiding pulling too tight to prevent distortion.
  • Wool's natural fluffiness fills gaps well, creating a warm, full woven surface.
  • Work with shuttle or needle to pass weft yarns across, beating them firmly to compact the weave.
  • Weaving can be done in panels sized for the bag’s desired dimensions, often two identical pieces.

Finishing the Panels:

  • After weaving, secure warp ends by tying neat knots or using finishing stitches along the edges to prevent unravelling.
  • Some crafters soak panels in warm water and block them flat to set the shape and relax the fibres.
  • Machine or hand zigzag stitching can be used to finish raw edges before assembly.

Bag Assembly:

  • Sew the two woven wool panels together along the sides and bottom using wool yarn for consistent material.
  • Leave the top open to allow access, optionally adding fringes from the warp ends as a stylistic detail.
  • Wool bags benefit from added interfacing or lining for extra structure and durability.

Adding Details and Reinforcement:

  • Attach handles made of wool or complementary fabric strips, sewn securely with reinforced stitching.
  • Add closures like buttons or drawstrings, sometimes using wool cord crafted from twisted yarn.
  • Embellish with embroidery, applique, or patchwork sewn atop the wool surface for texture and design.

Care and Handling:

  • Wool woven bags require gentle care to avoid snagging and to preserve shape.
  • The natural elasticity and softness improve over time, making the bag more comfortable with wear.
  • Reinforcements such as interfacing and double stitching enhance durability.

Using wool for weaving a ladies bag combines the cozy texture and insulation of wool with durable weaving and sewing craftsmanship, resulting in a stylish and functional accessory that showcases handmade quality and warmth.

DIRECTIONS

Woven Bag Workshop
The Village Square
161 M4, Plumstead, Cape Town, 7801, South Africa
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