Materials

Cardboard loom 

String (e.g. yarn, twine) 

Plant matter (e.g. grass, sticks, flowers with stem, pine needles, leaves)

Instructions

01. Set Up Loom

Using the provided cardboard loom, identify the multiple notches on the top and bottom of the loom. These notches are where you will wind the string and create the “warp” of your weaving. The warp is considered the backbone of any weaving project and will provide the weaving its structure and shape. If you don’t have a loom, you can create one by using a rectangular piece of cardboard. Cut approximately 4 notches per inch across the top and bottom of your cardboard to create your loom. 

02. Create Warp

Start by holding your string tightly at the back of the cardboard. Once secure, fit the string through the very first notches at the top of the loom. Next, wrap the string around the first notch at the bottom of the loom. For ease, you can either create a knot at the beginning of your string or tape it down. 

Keeping the string taut, continue wrapping around each of the separate notches until you reach the last notch. Once you have the warp completed tape or knot the end of the string at the back of the cardboard. The warp should look like a series of parallel vertical lines across the entire loom.

03. Weave

Gather your plant matter outdoors. Starting at the bottom, begin to weave sticks, flowers, or any other plant materials between every other string of the warp. As you go up your loop it is best to alternate between which string you pass your plants under and over. 

If needed, insert any elongated, sturdy material (like stray cardboard) between the warp, and guide it upwards so that the twine makes a diamond shape from the side (this allows for a wider opening to weave). Make sure your materials are tight between the warp. This can be done by combing material down into the warp. Repeat until your flower tapestry is completed to your satisfaction. 

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About Open Studios

CAMH’s Open Studios feature activities that draw inspiration from the exhibitions on view to provide an opportunity to explore imaginative concepts inspired by world-renowned artists.

Open Studios instructions are released on our website at 2PM, the first Saturday of every month. In-person, a limited number of Open Studio Kits are available for pick up in the Museum between 2-4PM, until we run out. Open Studio Kits include instructions and art supplies to complete the featured project. Each kit will include bonus items such as CAMH buttons, Art Guides, and extra activities. All ages, always free.

In-person pick up for Open Studio kits are low contact and designed with the safety of our visitors, staff, and community in mind. Visit our Museum From Home page for more hands-on activities you can enjoy anytime!