Paper Weaving
Weaving is often done on a loom, a frame or machine that provides the structure that helps to interweave threads or yarn. Did you ever use one of the pot holder looms with the stretchy loops? Weaving can also be done with other materials such as grasses to make baskets or even with paper to create unique patterns and structures.
Weaving has been such an important part of human history that many stories and fables include this art form. One of the more well-known stories involves the Greek myth of the Fates, three women said to spend their days weaving or spinning the destiny of the mortals. Imagine what it might be like to weave your own destiny. Since weaving takes small individual pieces and weaves them into a larger unified whole, it is a great way of thinking about our lives. How might we take the best parts of our everyday life, from friends, nature, favorite colors, and foods, and weave them into the wonderful tapestry that makes up who we are.
Follow these directions, or do your own thing! It’s your creation, own it!
Step 1: Creating the Warp
Using the heavier paper, let’s create a warp structure (usually the vertical part on a loom that allows you to weave over and under). First, decorate this base sheet using markers, crayons, paint, or whatever appeals to you. We suggest thinking about the best parts of who you are and representing these things in colors, words, or images on the paper. Second, when finished decorating, fold this piece of paper in half with the shorter ends touching each other. Hold the folded edge of the paper. Using scissors, cut strips about ½ inch thick from the fold to the other side, leaving an outer ½ inch uncut. Unfold the paper, and you will see cuts in the center of the paper. The outer border will be solid.
Step 2: Create the Weft Strips
Now, decorate the lighter sheet of paper. You can think about the best parts of the world around you – what makes you happy or brings you joy. Decorate the sheet with images, words, or colors that represent these things. Then, cut this sheet into ½ inch strips that are parallel to the short edge. This will create short strips to weave into the warp piece. You will not need all the strips, so choose your favorites.
Step 3: Weaving It Together
Weave the first paper strip over and under the heavier piece of paper on the warp structure. Repeat this pattern to the edge. Pull the strip until it is evenly spaced and tuck it towards one end. Using a second weft strip, weave the opposite pattern.
Things to Think About:
How did it feel to weave with paper? Did it remind you of any other projects you have done?
Think about the myth of the Greek Fates. What future might you weave for yourself if you could?
If you thought about your life as a weaving, what are the warp strips, those things that you love about yourself? What are the weft strips, those things that bring you joy or help you through life? What interesting patterns arise when you weave them together?