"In the middle Ages, tapestries had a purely utilitarian function. They were originally designed to protect medieval rooms from damp and cold weather, to cover austere walls of big castles, or to insulate big rooms into more comfortable quarters. Tapestries used for furnishing big stone castles were very big in size and they required big looms, many workers and high capital investments. Thus, manufactories of this type arose in prosperous localities, usually weaving centers. By 1500, Flanders, especially Brussels and Bruges, had become the chief places of production. Due to their size and intricacy, tapestries became investments and displays of wealth and power."

"In these early tapestries, isolated figures or compact groups stood out against a background that was generally plain or embellished with plant motifs or flowers, those are called mille fleurs tapestries (thousand flowers). Tapestry became beside painting, sculpture and architectures one of the major visual art forms."

                           

The New Orleans Weavers Guild has been serving a community of like-minded fiber artists in this area of Southeast Louisiana since 1952. The Guild encourages the education of novice and experienced fiber enthusiasts through workshops, the exchange of information among members and the education of the public in handweaving, spinning and other woven textile techniques.

Guild benefits to members include discounts on workshops and supplies, access to the Guild library, attendance at monthly and special group meetings, subscription to Patterns, the guild’s monthly newsletter, periodic news updates thru mailings and email, opportunities to demonstrate, display and/or sell fiber related items collectively and receive the help, advice and camaraderie of other weavers and spinners.

• General Meetings are held on the third Saturday of the month in New Orleans at the Latter Library.
  
• Merry Spinners' Group meets the second Saturday of the month in Metairie.
• The Gathering explores all types of fiber work and meets the first Thursday of the month on the Northshore.
• Coffee House Spinning is an evening gathering of spinners  the second Tuesday of the month, 6:30pm.  We are currently meeting at the Orange Couch, 2339 Royal Street in the Marigny.
  

Become a member today and be sure to check our events section for upcoming workshops!