Art Supplies from Blick

In this project, the student will use two pieces of colored construction paper to produce a woven paper mat.

Weaving is one of the most ancient forms of human creativity. Baskets and textiles would not have been possible without weaving. This project will give students experience working with the basic concept of weaving.

Grade Levels

Elementary through Junior High, and Special Education.

Time Required

One class period (45 - 60 minutes a period)

Lesson Objectives

To a develop basic knowledge and gain experience with weaving. Students will produce a simple weaving project and will be able to discuss the basic vocabulary of weaving.

This project is a practical introduction to textile weaving for younger students or anyone with no weaving experience.

Procedure

1. The teacher may prepare a sample(s) ahead of time for showing to the class. Begin with a brief discussion of weaving and what it is (the interlacing of threads to form a continuous piece of fabric). Write vocabulary list on board and discuss. Show example(s).
• Weaving — The process of forming cloth or fabric on a loom by interlacing yarn or thread (or, as in this case, paper).
• Loom — A frame for weaving yarn or thread into cloth or fabric.
• Warp — Threads running lengthwise on the loom. The warp is placed on the loom prior to beginning the weaving process.
• Weft — Threads that are weaved across the warp threads to form the web.
• Web — The cloth or fabric produced by weaving.
2. Distribute materials and tools.
3. Students fold one sheet of paper horizontally.
4. Draw a line about one inch from the open end of the folded paper. This is the limit of cutting.
5. From the fold, make irregular cuts up to the line. Cuts need not be straight. (The irregular cuts make a more interesting finished product.) Unfold and lay it flat. This will serve as the "warp" and the "loom."
6. Measure and cut from the second sheet of paper, one-inch wide by nine-inch strips. These will serve as the "weft." Tip: Teacher may precut the one-inch weft strips.
7. Begin by weaving one "weft thread" over one "warp thread" then under the next warp and over the next, etc.
8. Continue this process alternating over and under with each weft thread. If the previous weft thread went under the warp thread, the following row will begin by going over the warp.

Assessment

Teacher reviews each student's work to verify that each project meets with the minimum lesson requirements.

Extended Lesson

Finished projects can be displayed individually or assembled into an attractive and interesting ensemble.

This project can be expanded to challenge the creativity of students by using more colors, making the weft threads thinner and the designs more detailed. The warp can be measured using rulers and will result in more precise designs. The simple over-under sequence can be altered from every other warp to every second or even third warp to form a regular pattern that will differ from the standard "checker board" style design.