Introduction to Band Weaving: Inkle Loom Weekend in Castlemaine
Jan
11
to Jan 12
upcoming classes page

Introduction to Band Weaving: Inkle Loom Weekend in Castlemaine

  • Uniting Church Hall (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enter the fascinating world of band weaving in this hands-on, 2-day workshop!

Designed for beginners and those looking to expand their textile skills, you'll learn the ins and outs of the versatile Inkle loom.

Over the course of two days, we will:

·       Cover the basics of Inkle loom setup and operation

·       Explore Inkle design and colour theory for eye-catching results

·       Learn to draft and follow an Inkle pattern

·       Practice Inkle weaving techniques to create colourful, sturdy bands

·       Complete a woven band of your own design

Join Ilka for a weekend of creativity and textile tradition. You'll leave with new skills, a handwoven band, and the confidence to continue your Inkle weaving journey at home.

No prior experience necessary. All materials and use of Inkle looms provided. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

Price:  $190

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Natural Dyeing - Castlemaine
Feb
8
10:00 AM10:00
upcoming classes page, Castlemaine, Homepage

Natural Dyeing - Castlemaine

  • Castlemaine Community House (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
NatDyesMay18.JPG

Discover some of nature’s hidden sources of colour!

For thousands of years plants have been used to dye fibre and fabric and a beautiful natural palette is still available today without the need for harmful chemicals. Local weeds or kitchen off-cuts can offer you harmonious hues in a range of values and intensity. This hands-on workshop introduces a selection of local colour possibilities, as well as discussing fibre types, mordanting options and dye safety. A resist technique will also be used to produce patterned cloth.

Castlemaine Community House Kitchen

Sunday February 8, 2025 10 AM to 4 PM.

Cost:  $ 150

*Other payment options below.

* Flexible payment plans available - email ILKA to arrange a plan that works for you.

* MaLETS members can also pay in full or part using pods - our local Castlemaine barter currency!

Just email ILKA to arrange this :)

“Thank you for your lovely workshop on Saturday. I loved every minute of it and learned so much I can incorporate into my felting. I enjoyed everyone’s company too. You have an endearing manner and inclusive teaching style. Thank you. I hope to enjoy more of your classes.”
— Annie, Castlemaine 2023
“Thanks again for a wonderful learning day on Saturday.
Such a lovely group of people and so well led.
I loved how your practice is so connected to the environment and the natural world around us.
The Barwon River weeds in Geelong will now look full of potential!”
— Kate, 2023
“Thanks so much for a great dyeing day last Sunday Ilka. You really are a considerate and generous teacher and it was truly wonderful to be in your learning bubble again. Your respectful approach to crafting through nature and connection to land is a joy to see and be part of. ”
— Brigette, Castlemaine 2022
“Thank you so much for a wonderful workshop today! You have such a lovely, warm and thoughtful approach and your knowledge and experience shines through. You’re an inspiration! ”
— Cat, Castlemaine 2021
“Fabulous workshop that demystified the world of natural dyeing. Ilka’s wealth of knowledge and passion for natural dyeing is what made the day so engaging and informative. Lots of wow moments as gum leaves bubbled away in pots transforming pieces of fabric from neutral to the most beautiful shades of nature.”
— Kathryn, Ceres 2019
“One of the best workshops I’ve been to. The teaching was very clear and at the same time friendly and relaxed. I’d love to go to more.”
— Marion. Ceres 2019
“This was a fabulous workshop, I really enjoyed it. Ilka is just terrific and I’d do pretty much any class she was teaching in the future. This was my first time at Ceres, but I’ll definitely make the two hour drive again!”
— Ruth. Ceres 2019
“Ilka White shared so much of her knowledge and experience with the group. Her calm way of being and authenticity was refreshing. Thoroughly enjoyed this Natural Dyeing course.”
— Marisa. Ceres 2019
“One of the best one-day courses I’ve been to. Really succinct and hands on. Leant so much in a short amount of time. Ilka was so lovely, and really passionate about what she does. Really inspiring!”
— Elke. Ceres 2018
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BRAIDED RAG RUGS - LIVE ONLINE for UK, Europe, India, Africa, Japan
Apr
5
to Apr 6
upcoming classes page, Rag Rugs, Homepage

BRAIDED RAG RUGS - LIVE ONLINE for UK, Europe, India, Africa, Japan

Online Class in 2 sessions - Live on Zoom

NOTE: TAUGHT IN AUSTRALIAN EASTERN DAYLIGHT TIME, WHICH EQUATES TO MORNINGS IN THE UK, EUROPE & AFRICA AND AFTERNOONS FROM INDIA TO JAPAN.

(If joining from interstate or overseas, compare to your local date / time here).te or overseas, compare to your local date / time here).

Session 1 - - Introduction and braiding basics

Session 2 - Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing

Learn a great way to recycle your old clothes and make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique. We share an inspiring range of colour and design possibilities in this two day workshop. Beautiful and unique floor coverings are possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rags for a ‘carpet of flowers’. This braiding technique weaves in as we go so there is no stitching up required afterward. Bring your own material to recycle and find out what riches can come from rags…

Cost : $125 (AUD)

* OR DONATE $125 AU to UNRWA, MSF or Ela Elna Elak and email your receipt to ilkajanewhite@gmail.com to register for this workshop.

* Local MaLETS scheme members can also pay in full or part using pods - our local Castlemaine barter currency! Just email ILKA to arrange this :)

“I can wholeheartedly recommend doing a rag rug workshop with Ilka White if you’d like to explore this method of up-cycling textile waste!”
— Nikki, 2024
“I finally took Ilka’s rug braiding class. She’s a phenomenal teacher and I’m finally having success at a braided in rug after many previous attempts.”
— Laura, Sept 2024
“Thank you so much once again for a truly wonderful workshop last weekend! I am so inspired by the process, the outcome, and the broader context of extending the useful lifespan of the materials in our lives. Thank you so much for your thoughtful and patient sharing of this method, I really am so very grateful :)”
— Candice, Vancouver, Feb. 2021
“Thank you so much Ilka. Your gentle guidance and clear explanations made for a very safe and enjoyable experience. The examples you showed and then explained were so inspirational, I can’t wait to try those other techniques! I would definitely be interested in a 3D class down the track.”
— Kym, Perth WA 2022
“Thank you so much Ilka!
It was a truly fabulous workshop... Totally worth the wait.
You are an amazing teacher. I don’t know how you teach such a hands-on craft over zoom, but you do, and you do it so well! Thank you.”
— Janaki, February 2021
“I just wanted to express a deep thank you.
For me there is nothing more thrilling than learning new things that can expand one’s vocabulary so to speak!! I am abuzz with ideas I can’t wait to try when I can create the time... Thank you for your generosity and genius. I echo the appreciation that you must hear often. Your impact is far reaching and exponential like the spiral expansion of a braided rug!”
— Marina, Toronto. April 2021
“I just did it over the weekend and it was so great! Ilka is a really wonderful instructor and it made me feel like an absolute sorceress!”
— Leslie. Ontario, Jan. 2021
“Loved the class. Ilka is a wonderful personable teacher and I loved to see the rest of the class all around the world.”
— Kim, Iowa, Jan. 2021
“Thanks so much for a very professional zoom workshop. I had no idea it was your first. You had so much extended content to cater to everyone’s possible interest and level of technical ability yet you managed to keep the pace slow and relaxed so everyone moved together as a group.
I am very inspired with the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for that gift.”
— Liz. June 2020
“I enjoyed Ilka White’s first online class for braided rugs. Can recommend it for everyone!”
— Megan. June 2020
“I was lucky enough to do the first online rug making class with Ilka. It was so good. Ilka is so patient & clear in her instruction. Highly recommend this class.”
— Anne. June 2020
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Braided Rag Rugs - ONLINE - Pacific, Canadian, US & East Oz timezones
Jan
28
to Jan 29
Rag Rugs, upcoming classes page

Braided Rag Rugs - ONLINE - Pacific, Canadian, US & East Oz timezones

Braided Rugs-NEW.jpg

2 Part Online Class via Zoom

*Note: Dates are in Australian Eastern Daylight Time. These sessions run Saturday & Sunday Afternoon/Evenings in the Pacific, Canada and Nth/Sth American zones. COMPARE YOUR LOCAL STARTING TIME & DATE HERE.

Session 1 - 9am - 12pm Jan 28 (AEDT) Introduction and braiding basics

Session 2 - 9am - 12pm Jan 29 (AEDT) Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing

A great way to recycle old clothes and fabric…

Learn to make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique. Ilka shares an inspiring off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique with a range of colour and design possibilities in this one day workshop.

Beautiful and unique floor coverings are possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rags for a ‘carpet of flowers’.

This braiding technique weaves in as we go so there is no stitching up required afterward. Bring your own material to recycle and find out what riches can come from rags…

EARLY BIRD: $120 AUD

AFTER DEC 31: $125 AUD

Locals are welcome to pay in part or full using ‘Pods’ from our MaLETS bartering scheme. Just email me to set that up!

“Many thanks for a marvellous workshop experience. It was such a welcome antidote and very warming to be in company of makers far away... My fingers have developed their own proficiency and now it flows along beautifully - my favourite thing to do in the evening.
Braided rag rugs are addictive! I will be making at least 14 in this series, so there is plenty of opportunity to explore all that you taught us. How wonderful to have a versatile technique where lots of possibilities open up.”
— Ruth. Denmark, WA. Oct. 2023
“Ilka thank you, the workshop this morning was wonderful. I have learnt so much today, far more, 90% more, than I thought I already knew and I am very pleased I made the decision to attend... I love the whole concept of rag rug weaving and will enjoy making. You are a wonderful and gentle teacher and I really appreciate your approach. You put a lot of effort into every individual student in your class. Thank you again.
”
— Kaite, Molong, NSW. 2023
“Thank you so much Ilka. Your gentle guidance and clear explanations made for a very safe and enjoyable experience. The examples you showed and then explained were so inspirational, I can’t wait to try those other techniques! I would definitely be interested in a 3D class down the track.”
— Kym, Perth WA. 2022
“You are just the loveliest person Ilka and such a wonderful instructor. I am so so soooooo glad I took your class. It’s such a therapeutic course ... thank you so much for the experience and hope to see you again.”
— Dorothy, Toronto. 2022
“Dear Ilka,
I was delighted to take your zoom class last weekend. It is rare to be in the position of an absolute beginner, in a supportive class. Definitely good for me... I look forward to a further class with you in the future.”
— Darryla, Walnut Creek, California 2022
“Thanks so much for a fantastic two days, Ilka. I learnt a lot and am keen to continue with my rug. You’re a great teacher!”
— Nicola, Wollongong NSW. 2022
“Thank you so much for a wonderful workshop. I learned so much while having a fantastic time. I am looking forward to continuing with my rug (and more in the future!)”
— Maria, Toronto. 2022
“Ilka was a great teacher. The other participants were all so friendly and relaxed too. We all had a great time. I went home feeling inspired, rejuvenated and I hope slightly cleverer!”
— Marion, Ceres 2021
“Thanks so much for a very professional zoom workshop. You had so much extended content to cater to everyone’s possible interest and level of technical ability yet you managed to keep the pace slow and relaxed so everyone moved together as a group.
I am very inspired with the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for that gift.”
— Liz. June 2020
“I was lucky enough to do the first online rug making class with Ilka. It was so good. Ilka is so patient & clear in her instruction. Highly recommend this class.”
— Anne. June 2020
“I enjoyed Ilka White’s first online class for braided rugs. Can recommend it for everyone!”
— Megan. June 2020
“Thanks Ilka for a really fun day. Really enjoyed it. You did a fabulous job leading us. ”
— Elaine. June 2020
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Dressing the Loom - Warping Workshop, Castlemaine
Apr
30
11:00 AM11:00
upcoming classes page, weaving

Dressing the Loom - Warping Workshop, Castlemaine

A practical, one-day warping class.

This hands-on workshop offers thorough step-by-step revision, tips and tricks for all stages of preparing a table loom for weaving. Great for those who haven’t woven for a while or would like to firm up their understanding of warping fundamentals.

We’ll cover all the steps in dressing a loom from back to front including spacing, winding on, threading, denting and leashing. Ilka also shares some handy tools and tips for warping on your own, revisiting the principals of sett, tension and table-loom basics as we go.

Bring your own Table Loom and pre-wound warp or contact Ilka to purchase / hire.

COST: $120 AUD

Locals are welcome to pay in part or full using ‘Pods’ from our MaLETS bartering scheme. Paying in instalments can also be arranged. Just email Ilka to set up these options :)

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Handloom Weaving Practice Group
Nov
8
to Dec 6
courses currently running, upcoming classes page, Castlemaine, Homepage

Handloom Weaving Practice Group

  • Castlemaine Community House (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
Handloom School Banner.jpg

At the request of local weavers - A Handloom Practice Group in Castlemaine!

Tutorial / Studio style sessions, assisting whatever project/s you would like to bring along for company or guidance. These sessions shape to the needs of participating weavers - wherever you’re at!

You might begin a new piece or continue an existing one, receive help with reading drafts or planning your warp, ask about design, combining yarns, deepen your understanding of a structure or simply enjoy the cross-pollination that working together brings. All weavers welcome!

BYO table loom, or borrow one from Ilka.

Venue: West End Hall. Corner of View & Woodman Streets, Castlemaine

Date/Times :   1-4pm Tuesday afternoons - November 8 to December 6

* Cost:    $80 per afternoon, or the whole season for $385

*Really flexible instalment plans available - email ilka.

Student work pictured L-R: Lisa Mori, Lynne Heathcote, Mel Elton, Jess Gilbert, Martine Szokol.

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Braided Rag Rugs - Village Dreaming, Blampied Vic.
Sep
11
10:30 AM10:30
Rag Rugs, upcoming classes page

Braided Rag Rugs - Village Dreaming, Blampied Vic.

RagRugKirsty.jpg

Learn to make fantastic rag rugs at Mara Ripani’s beautiful farm! Ilka teaches a wonderful off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique and shares an inspiring range of colour and design possibilities in this one day workshop. Beautiful and unique floor coverings are possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rags for a ‘carpet of flowers’. This braiding technique weaves in as we go so there is no stitching up required afterward. Bring your own material to recycle and find out what riches can come from rags…

Morning – Introduction and braiding basics
Afternoon – Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing

Mara provides a lovely light lunch + tea & coffee.

Date: Sunday SEPT 11 from 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Venue: ORTO Straw Eco Farm
Blampied, Vic 3461 Australia

Cost: $200

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Certificate of 8 Shaft Weaving - Carlton and Online
Jul
24
to Dec 24
upcoming classes page, Castlemaine, Homepage

Certificate of 8 Shaft Weaving - Carlton and Online

  • Carlton & Online Vic Australia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
CertificateCollage72dpi.jpg

Certificate of 8 Shaft Weaving - Handweavers and Spinners Guild of Victoria.

July 2021 - July 2022

Now offered as a combination of online and face-to-face classes over the course of a year, this long-established certificate program with the Handweavers and Spinners Guild of Victoria provides an excellent grounding in 8 Shaft Handloom Weaving and Design.

The course combines thorough weave theory, practical design skills, traditional structures, contemporary applications and offers experience combining yarns, altering setts and appropriately finishing fabrics.


Course Content:
Introduction to Multi-Shaft Weaving, 8 shaft Twill theory and variations, Brocade theory and design, Damask design and pick up, 2 block Double Cloth, 6 block Summer and Winter, Huck Laces, Waffle,Colour & Weave, Deflected weaves and Pique.Exploration of Yarn, Fibres, and Finishes.
Design, Costing and production of an 8 shaft article.

Assessment includes Woven Samples 50% and a Technical Folio 50%.

Venue: Handweavers and Spinners Guild of Victoria (North Carlton) and Online via Zoom

Course Cost: Guild Members $1,800 and General Public $1,950
*Payable by deposit followed by monthly or quarterly instalments.

Includes loom hire and provision of most yarns.

Please note: This course does not carry accreditation; however the Guild asks participants to undertake genuine commitment to completion of all topics and submission of a folio including theory, woven samples and final project.

Delivery mode: A blend of Face to Face and Online learning:
7 full days throughout the year in the Guild Rooms, 655 Nicholson Street Carlton North, interspersed with 14 fortnightly classes online (Sundays, 10-12 via zoom). Email Ilka for full timetable and details.

Please contact Ilka or call the Guild on 9387 9222 before booking this course HERE.

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Castlemaine Handloom School - EXTRA WARP
Feb
6
to Feb 8
courses currently running, upcoming classes page, Castlemaine, Homepage

Castlemaine Handloom School - EXTRA WARP

  • Castlemaine Community House (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS
Love This Life - Handwoven Sash in Supplementary Warp Pick-Up. 2004

Love This Life - Handwoven Sash in Supplementary Warp Pick-Up. 2004

For those who have completed Introduction to Weaving classes and are ready for more theory and practice!

This year we explore a wonderful range of Extra Warp weaves, including Velvet, Double cloth Pleats, Turned Overshot, Turned Monksbelt and Supplementary Warp Pick-Up.

We’ll also have a Natural Dye Day to tie and dip your warps for Ikat-like effects!

Increase your confidence in reading, adapting and ultimately designing your own patterns and textures on 4 or 8 shafts.

BYO table loom, or borrow one from Ilka.

Venue: Castlemaine Community House is a lovely old red-brick school building 2 minute’s walk from the train station.

*Online follow-up will also be available for those who can’t join us for every session.

Dates:    (5 Full days 10 - 4pm) Sat/Sun March 6 & 7, then Saturdays: April 3, May 8, and June 6.

Cost:      $ 475  *Flexible instalment plans available.

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Braided Rag Rugs - LIVE ONLINE - 2 part class
Nov
6
9:30 AM09:30
Rag Rugs, Castlemaine, Homepage, upcoming classes page

Braided Rag Rugs - LIVE ONLINE - 2 part class

RagRug Red Scissors.png

Online Class in 2 sessions - Live on Zoom:

Session 1 - Sunday 6th Dec. 9.30am - 12.30pm (*AEST) - Introduction and braiding basics

Session 2 - Sunday 13th Dec. 9.30am - 12.30pm (*AEST) - Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing

*Note: AEST is Australian Eastern Standard Time. Compare to your zone time HERE.

A great way to recycle old clothes and fabric!

Learn to make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique. Ilka shares an inspiring off-loom, spiral-woven braiding technique with a range of colour and design possibilities in this two part workshop.

This braiding technique weaves in as we go so there is no stitching up required afterward. Beautiful and unique floor coverings are possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rags for a ‘carpet of flowers’.

Bring your own material to recycle and find out what riches can come from rags…

These sessions will be held online via Zoom. Participants will receive login details prior to workshop.

COST OF 2 DAY CLASS: $105

“I was lucky enough to do the first online rug making class with Ilka. It was so good. Ilka is so patient & clear in her instruction. Highly recommend this class.
”
— Anne. June 2020
“Thanks so much for a very professional zoom workshop. I had no idea it was your first. You had so much extended content to cater to everyone’s possible interest and level of technical ability yet you managed to keep the pace slow and relaxed so everyone moved together as a group.
I am very inspired with the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for that gift.”
”
— Liz. June 2020
“I enjoyed Ilka White’s first online class for braided rugs. Can recommend it for everyone!”
— Megan. June 2020
“Thanks Ilka for a really fun day. Really enjoyed it. You did a fabulous job leading us.”
— Elaine. June 2020
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