Paper Weaving

Exhibition: Altered Realities

Artist: David Foxcroft and Kristine Zingeler 

Overview

Weaving is a method used in textile production in which two distinct sets of yarn or thread are interlaced at right angles to form fabric.  Similar to a collage, weaving can create a very intricate and complex visual design based on the pattern in which we layer the materials.  This project uses paper to explore basic weaving techniques to create a complex paper design.

Objectives

• Be introduced to basic weaving technique

• Develop fine motor skills

• Learn how to take and evenly divide measurements

• Learn basic weaving terminology:

  • Warp - vertical or longitudinal strips

  • Weft - horizontal or lateral strips

Materials

Coloured Construction paper

Cardstock for weaving base

Old magazines

Exacto or utility knife

Ruler

Glue

Pencil

Scissors

Instructions:

Step One

Search through magazines, start collecting and cutting out imagery that is interesting to you.  

Next, cut random shapes from coloured construction paper.  Depending on size you will only be using 3-4 shapes.  Selectively choose from your cut out imagery and glue them on to your shapes.

Step Two

To prepare your warp:  Take your base paper and cut evenly spaced vertical slots with an exacto knife.  Slot size can vary based on personal preference but 1/2” is recommended.  Make sure you stop cutting 1 inch from the top and bottom of the paper. 

Participants can measure slots and cut using a ruler as a guide or alternatively, use a template easily found online by searching “paper weaving template”, then print.  

If scissors are preferred instead of an exacto; use a pencil to mark your vertical lines then fold paper in half horizontally.  Follow your pencil guides and cut with scissors.

Note: Younger participants should have an adult help with this step.

Step Three

With you paper base in front of you, start pulling your first shape under and over the slots.  Alternate pulling over and under with each new shape to create a woven texture. Continue until slots are full.

Variation

Try weave paper strips in combination with the shapes: 

Cut paper strips that are the minimum width of your base paper.  It is recommended that you cut longer strips as you can always trim them later.  You may choose to cut strips out of old magazines and/or coloured construction paper.  You can try a combination of both and explore how it effects the overall design.