Presentations to Fiber Arts Guilds

Susan Conover loves to share her knowledge of spinning and weaving with others. She would enjoy presenting a forty-five minute lecture or one to two day workshop for your guild or group.

Contact Susan directly for available dates as well as contract information. You may email her or telephone 440/346-5702 (mobile).

SUSAN CONOVER'S BIOGRAPHY

Susan photo

Susan began spinning and weaving in 1980 and spent the next three decades studying under numerous national and international instructors. Her focus has always been on the historic aspects of her chosen craft.

Since 2000 she has offered courses in hand spinning and floor-loom weaving from her studio. It is a premiere teaching environment with six Schacht floor looms and a "herd" of Schacht spinning wheels.

Her experiences have included being Operations Manager at Vavstuga Weaving School in Shelburne Falls, MA for five years. Being a consultant and demonstrator for Historic sites has brought her a great deal of joy and sense of accomplishment. She specializes in lectures and workshops for guilds and craft schools throughout the country.

Susan currently operates out of a newly remodeled studio that augments the original Schacht equipment with ten Glimakra countermarch and counterbalance looms. She offers two to five-day hands-on workshops in her home studio and hosts students from throughout North America.

Lectures are available in the following formats:

FORTY-FIVE MINUTE LECTURES:

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Susan has developed a multitude of PowerPoint shows viewed on a ZOOM platform with plenty of photos, short videos and diagrams to pique the interest of viewers. The lectures are all quite informative for new and experienced weavers/spinners alike.

Setts In All Their Glory

This is Susan's newest Presentation which is approximately 45-minutes in length via Zoom. Filled with oodles of pertinent information for the handweaver when it comes to obtaining the proper sett for your next project.

The beginning of the talk contains reed maintenance (carbon and stainless steel), including storage solutions and rusty reed prevention and repair. Plus, a nifty conversion chart for Imperial vs. metric reed sizing.

Susan then moves into the nitty-gritty with:

    Mini Squid Towels
  • Reed Substitution Charts
  • The Master Yarn Chart
  • Yarn Wrappings
  • Stretchy, stiff, and handspun yarns-Obtaining the correct sett
  • Number of times that the weft intersects the plane of the cloth in one repeat
  • Firm setts, slippery yarn setts and drapey setts
  • Calculating your shrinkage in both warp and weft
  • A cameo project will be a sett sampler in plain weave and twill

Fiber Properties

Let's explore fiber properties which include absorbency, chemical reactions, elasticity, light resistance, resilience, strength and warmth. Susan will focus on wool, silk, linen, cotton and rayon.

The beginning of the talk contains reed maintenance (carbon and stainless steel), including storage solutions and rusty reed prevention and repair. Plus a nifty conversion chart for imperial vs. metric reed sizing.

Yarn Counts, the Denier System and the Tex System

Yarn counts are so important to the handweaver... understanding a bit of their history is enlightening. The same holds true for the Denier and Tex Systems.

Overview of the Warp Board & Warp Mill, Winding Your Warp Effortlessly plus Making Your Own Choke Ties

Highlighted in this lecture is the ergonomics of using both the warp board and mill. Susan also has a short video on how to make your own choke ties with scrap yarns remaining on bobbins.

Fiber Burn Tests plus the Yarn Balance

If you have some yarns in your stash that are not readily identifiable, you may be able to ascertain their fiber contents by safely performing a burn test. Susan will burn cotton, linen, rayon, wool, silk and nylon. The Yarn Balance (aka the McMorran Balance) is a handy device to measure the approximate yards per pound of a chosen yarn.

Pre-sleying vs. the Raddle, Sett or Determining Warp Spacing and Reed Conversion Charts

This is a "must" lecture for any handweaver. Should you pre-sley or use a raddle? How do we determine the correct warp spacing? You don't need as many reeds as you think with the aid of a reed conversion chart.

Setting Up the Schacht Baby Wolf Loom for Beaming with a Trapeze, Using Wooden Warp Sticks, Threading, Reed Sleying and Tying-On (Back to Front Method)

A 14-page handout with plenty of photos to aid you through the entire process of beaming a warp on a Schacht Baby Wolf. Susan combines both North American and European techniques to create a seamless process.

The Basics of 4-Shaft Overshot

This presentation includes quite a few videos highlighting the placement of a wooden temple, advancing the warp, two shuttle management, treadling tips and tricks, selvedge do's and don'ts, etc. Susan will also cover the treadling techniques of Star and Rose fashion.

An Introduction to Scandinavian Coverlets & Sleigh Blankets

Introduction to Scandinavian Coverlets

Susan Conover's fascination with Scandinavian weaving is apparent in everything that is created on her looms. The Swedes traditionally weave a structure called Smalandsvav (a multi-harness weave) and the Norwegians call it Skillbragd. Whatever you want to call it is fine by Susan. She explored mounting these unique hand-woven pieces onto sheep skins to create warm and cozy bed coverings or sleigh blankets. She has also woven Monks belt and various overshot weaves which have been mounted onto sheep skins or quilted onto fabric.

Susan's quest to learn the correct and traditional method of sewing sheep skins took her to Vesterheim's Folk Art School in Decorah, IA in the summer of 2016. In Iowa she studied under Britt Solheim of Norway. Britt shared every ounce of knowledge she possesses on the art of skinnfell (hand sewing sheep skins).

In this one-hour presentation Susan will share examples of her Sleigh Blankets plus a short lecture in hand-sewing the sheep skins together ... which is something most North Americans don't get to witness.

Understanding Loom Actions in Relationship to Drafts
aka the differences between North American and European weaving drafts

Many North American hand-weavers have been indoctrinated into Understanding loom
			actions in drafts the weaving world of jack loom actions. But wait .... what about counterbalance and countermarch actions? And of course there is the confusion of the weaving draft itself. Is the draft written for jack, counterbalance or countermarch looms?

During this one-hour introduction to understanding these different loom actions and how weaving drafts are written, Susan will shed some significant light! This is a lecture that all weavers, regardless of experience level, will gain more knowledge than imaginable.

The Care & Feeding of Your Handwoven Linens

Many hand weavers don't quite understand the the fiber flax plant. Let alone, tips and tricks for weaving with linen.

Care and feeding of handwoven linen

In this one-hour lecture Susan Conover will share a seventeen minute video of local neighbors' adventure in flax planting, harvesting and processing. Flax spinning results in linen yarn. Susan will bring a flax wheel and distaff and discuss some of the intricate ins and outs of spinning this ancient fiber.

A PowerPoint show will highlight how to wind a linen warp efficiently; humidity control of your weaving space, etc. And last but not least, how to remove certain food stains from your hand woven linens.

Susan's favorite fiber will be highlighted in some of her many woven examples of this exquisite fiber.

The History of the Great Wheel and How to Use It

History of the Great Wheel

Susan Conover's love of the Great Wheel (aka Wool Wheel, Walking Wheel) is somewhat contagious. While working for several historic sites, she would bring her Great Wheel along to dazzle spectators. She would always gather a crowd!

Susan will present a PowerPoint show highlighting the history of the treadle spinning wheel and how the Great Wheel evolved. Still used today by many hand spinners, the Great Wheel is more than a conversation piece .... it is a great deal of fun to spin on (no pun intended).

 

ONE DAY WORKSHOPS:

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The following workshops will be offered on a ZOOM platform.

Let's Keep It Simple - Drafting Off the Grid

Drafting
			Off the Grid

Susan Conover has taught many, many students how to weave in her Comprehensive Basic Weaving Class. She has found that one of the biggest stumbling blocks for new weavers is understanding the weaving draft, it's components and it's uses.

In this one day hands-on workshop Susan will explain the four main components of the draft and how to read them. There will be a comparison between North American and European drafts. She will explain how to read the threading sequence; the tie-ups; dissect warp and weft drawdowns and of course, how to read the treadling sequence. Discussion of the warp color sequence will be included.

Spinning Flax Into Linen

Spinning Flax into Linen

Flax has been around since the beginning of civilization and still seems to be a mystery for most modern hand spinners. Because there are so many different ways to purchase the prepared fibers today (roving, top, stricks, line stricks, etc), many spinners are stumped. If you are comfortable spinning a continuous yarn with confidence, please join us for this one day hands-on workshop with Susan Conover.

Susan's love of flax began in 1982 after reading articles on the subject in The Weaver's Journal, Fall 1982 issue. Mary A. Chase wrote about Flax Processing, and being an avid gardener, Susan instantly searched for flax seeds to grow the following Spring. Susan also discovered that nearby Hungarian neighbors were raising and processing flax annually. There was no turning back ... the rest, as they say, is history.

The curriculum for this fun and legend filled class will include:

  • A 17-minute film on flax processing created by the Conovers
  • Exploring line strick for a finer yarn
  • Dressing a distaff
  • Spinning singles for weaving
  • Scouring your skeins
  • Yarn counts

Participants should bring their own treadle wheel in good working order; single drive, double drive, flyer lead or bobbin lead are all acceptable. One bobbin is all that is required, preferably of a standard ratio. Please do not bring a wheel with a hooked orifice, jumbo bobbin or WooLee winder. If you have a distaff, by all means bring it to class. A hand towel would be great to catch water drips.

Susan will provide all fibers, water pots, chair/floor distaves and class handouts.

An Introduction to Spinning on the Great Wheel

Susan Conover has spent many years spinning and demonstrating at Historic sites the use of the Great Wheel (aka Wool Wheel, Walking Wheel). In this one day hands-on class, participants will enjoy the myths, legends and tips which surround this spinning wheel.

Susan will cover:

  • PowerPoint presentation entitled "The Evolution of the Spinning Wheel"
  • Wool preparation: worsted, semi-worsted and woolen
  • The left hand long draw
  • The Minor's head and direct drive or bat head
  • Tensioning devices
  • Regional differences from maker to maker
  • Making new drive bands
  • How to make cornhusk bearings
  • Leather bearings - pros and cons

Participants may bring their own Great Wheel, in good working order. Susan will bring two wheels from the Conovers' private collection to be used as loaners in class. All fibers and course handouts are provided.

Participants must be able to spin a continuous yarn with confidence.

TWO DAY WORKSHOPS:

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Exploring 4-Shaft Traditional Overshot - Sampler
NEW IN 2020

OS4s Sampler

The term Overshot brings to mind coverlets woven on Early American barn frame looms dating back to the 1700's. It is believed Europeans brought the weave structure to North America and fortunately weaving materials such as wool and cotton were readily sourced and available.

Susan invites you to spend two insightful days exploring one of her favorite weave structures. Her workshop creates multiple overshot samples serving as a "snapshot" of overshot treadling sequences (all on the same threading).

Our study will delve into understanding block weaves and different treadlings. Overshot treadlings such as Star Fashion, Rose Fashion, Echo, On-Opposites, Italian Fashion, Flame-Point Fashion, Petit Point, Lace Weave, Spetsvav and Honeycomb.

Susan's workshop examines and allows weavers to explore this fascinating structure and provides a comprehensive understanding for future weaving projects. Both days include PowerPoint presentations with lectures, short videos and ample time for questions.

Susan will pre-wind the 8/2 Egyptian cotton warp (unbleached) for the sample which will include plenty of 8/2 cotton for the ground weft plus the "special" weft materials for three of the samples at a fee of $35 + shipping.

Sampler notes: 225 warp ends + 2 floating selvedges 3 yards in length; 10" wide on the loom; 22.5 epi; 45/10 metric reed may be sleyed 2-2-2-2; 10-dent Imperial reed may be sleyed 2-2-2-3; Borgs Faro 6/1 Wool weft (2900yds/lb) will be supplied by students.

Some basic weaving experience would be helpful!

At the end of the workshop participants will receive a draft for a very special project: A complete Overshot Pillows Draft which is 14" wide on the loom and could include up to ten pillow tops. Sampling first, as we will do during the workshop, will enable you to apply your new-found knowledge for such a project.

Mini Square Towels aka Squid Towels
NEW IN 2021

Mini Squid Towels

So many weavers have been intrigued by this towel, which is known by Susan as a "Squid" towel. Susan has offered this class several times in her own studio but has redesigned the project to take it on the road. With a 22/2 Cottolin warp measuring 14.6" on the loom, participants will weave four "mini" towels in just two days. You will also gain the confidence of adding a 16/2 line linen supplementary warp (for the hanging loop). This two day workshop will provide participants with everything you need to know about executing a supplementary warp for the mini towels plus the knowledge to weave the larger towels at home.

Towel folded

The use of 6 or 8 Tow linens (weaver's choice) for the weft lend a homespun appearance. If you are a spinner, bring your own 6 or 8 Tow. If you have never worked with Cottolin or Tow linen this is your opportunity to do so under Susan's guidance.

Between weaving sessions, we will spend some valuable classroom time exploring:

  • Overview of the twill structure
  • Tie-ups
  • Threading options
  • Drawdowns
  • Measuring out your supplementary warp on a warp board or mill
  • Adding the supplementary warp and weight considerations
  • Weaving the loop into the towel
  • Wet finishing
  • Hand or machine hemming techniques

Susan will supply the pre-wound warps for four mini towels in two colorways: black & silver or unbleached & bleached. All Tow yarns, in a variety of colors, will be provided. Price is $55 + shipping for pre-wound towel warp, pre-wound supplementary warp and enough Tow yarn for weft.

  • A 4-Shaft portable loom with a 10-dent reed; minimum weaving width of 15"; in good working order.
  • Heddle requirements: 176 heddles total distributed (48) Shaft 1, (40) Shaft 2, (48) Shaft 3 and (40) Shaft 4. Shaft 1 is closes the weaver. PLEASE do not mix heddle types per shaft. You may put one type of heddle on one shaft and another type on another shaft as long as the heddle eyes are the same height.
  • Bench or loom chair
  • Closed bottom boat shuttle with bobbins or quills
  • Stick shuttle, belt shuttle or netting shuttle
  • Notions and such: cloth tape measure, scissors, a few straight pins and linen tester (if you have one), notebook, pen and pencil. Conover Workshops sells Linen Testers.

Crackle Weave on 4-Shafts

Crackle Weave on a
			4Shaft Loom

Jamtlandsdrall aka Crackle Weave is an elegant weave structure when woven with fine materials. If you are able to execute an Overshot weave you can certainly weave Crackle. Both structures may be woven on four shafts and use the same tie-up, they are both a two-shuttle weave with a shot of tabby alternating with a shot of pattern.

That is where the similarities to Overshot ends. Overshot pattern blocks have skips or floats varying from two warp threads to over an inch long. In Crackle, a three-thread float is the rule.

Participants will weave a 10" wide sampler on their own four-shaft portable loom. The warp material is 8/2 Cotton (not mercerized) in one color at 4 yards long which is a total of 640 yards. A 10-dent reed is required for a 20epi sett. The weft is 8/2 cotton (not mercerized) which will be used doubled for pattern weft and single for tabby weft. Different weft colors may be used for contrast. Weft material total yardage is 621 yards. Drafts will be provided once workshop enrollment is confirmed.

The following topics will be covered by Susan:

  • Overview of block weaves
  • Threading Crackle and incidentals
  • Drawdowns are fun!
  • Treadlings to include Traditional, Classic, Four Colors, Woven as Twill, Opposites, Overshot, Tabby as Shadow, Traditional Polychrome, Treadled as Lace, Summer & Winter Pairs, and Classic with rotating colors
  • Weaving to square
  • Weaving ergonomics
  • Shuttle considerations
  • Winding a bobbin or quill properly
  • Wet finishing

New to advanced weavers will have a blast weaving this sampler and understanding the process!

Shadow Weave Gamps on 4 or 8-Shafts

Shadow Weave
			  Gramps

Gamps are such a wonderful way to study the interaction of color and weave effect. In this two-day workshop, participants bring their own portable 4 or 8-Shaft loom, completely dressed and ready to throw the shuttle.

The following topics will be covered by Susan:

  • What is a gamp?
  • Overview of block weaves
  • Color and weave effects
  • Two very distinct drafting methods: Mary Meigs Atwater and Marion Powell
  • Weaving to square
  • Weaving ergonomics
  • Shuttle considerations
  • Winding a bobbin or quill properly
  • Wet finishing

The 8-Shaft Gamp requires 24" weaving width (participants may redesign the draft to fit their loom) , 12-dent reed, two+ boat shuttles and five bobbins. The warp and weft are 8/2 Egyptian cotton in five colors of the weaver's choice. The number of warp ends is 489 at a minimum of three yards. After wet finishing, this will yield a hemmed runner approximately 17-3/4" x 60" plus more for an additional table scarf or samples.

The 4-Shaft Gamp requires 14-1/4" weaving width, 15-dent reed, three shuttles and three bobbins. The warp and weft are 10/2 mercerized cotton (recommend UKI) in three colors of the weaver's choice. The number of warp ends is 430 plus 2 for a floating selvedge at a suggested length of three yards. After wet finishing, this will produce a runner approximately 12-3/4" x 60" plus more for an additional table scarf or samples.

Rosepath Gamps on 4-Shafts

Rosepath Gamps
			on 4-Shafts

Gamps are such a wonderful way to study the interaction of color and weave effect. In this two-day workshop, participants bring their own portable 4-Shaft loom, completely dressed and ready to throw the shuttle.

The following topics will be covered by Susan:

  • What is a gamp?
  • Color and weave effects
  • Weaving to square
  • Weaving ergonomics
  • Shuttle considerations
  • Winding a bobbin or quill properly
  • Wet finishing
Rosepath Colorways

The Gamp requires 12.6" weaving width, 12-dent reed, 2+ boat shuttles and five bobbins. The warp and weft are 8/2 Egyptian cotton in five colors of the weaver's choice. The number of warp ends is 340 plus 2 for floating selvedge at a suggested length of 3 yards. After wet finishing, this will yield a hemmed runner approximately 11.25" x 60" plus more for an additional table scarf or samples.

Weaving with Linen on 4-Shafts - Huck Lace Sachet Yardage or Sampler

Weaving With Linen

This two day workshop will provide participants with everything you need to know about winding a warp, beaming, threading, sleying, tying on and of course weaving with linen. Susan Conover will provide all pre-wound warps plus weft material in Bockens 16/2 Line Linen. The end result being sachet yardage or a sampler woven in huck lace variations.

Day One will include:

  • A short video on winding linen warps and beaming
  • Threading and sleying tips and tricks
  • Tying on a linen warp
  • Fixing threading/sleying errors
  • A 20 minute video of Susan beaming linen warps back to front using a trapeze
  • Overview of the differences between North American and European weaving drafts

Day Two will cover:

  • Boat shuttles - why a closed bottom shuttle?
  • Winding a bobbin or quill successfully (cardboard, plastic, wood and paper)
  • A 20-minute video on flax processing by the Conovers
  • Finishing your sachets or samplers with hem stitching
  • Wet finishing and the cold mangle

Susan will supply pre-wound warps - plenty for a 4" sample and material for twelve sachets or a wonderful sampler.

Participants need to bring:

  • A 4-Shaft portable loom with a 10 or 12-dent reed; minimum weaving width of 10"; in good working order
  • Heddle requirements: 172 heddles total, distributed (56) Shaft 1, (53) Shaft 2, (30) Shaft 3 and (32) Shaft 4. Shaft 1 is closes the weaver. PLEASE do not mix heddle types per shaft. You may put one type of heddle on one shaft and another type on another shaft as long as the heddle eyes are the same height.
  • A wooden (not metal) temple for 8" weaving width. Susan will have five loaner temples for the workshop. Conover Workshops sells Glimakra Wooden Temples if needed.
  • Bench or loom chair
  • Closed bottom boat shuttle with bobbins or quills
  • Notions and such: cloth tape measure, scissors, a few straight pins and linen tester (if you have one), notebook, pen and pencil. Conover Workshops sells Linen Testers.
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