News! from Loop of the Loom

After the trial class....

2012-01-09T13:58:00.003-05:00

I wonder how people enojoy their SAORI woven piece at home. Here is a heartwarming letter I just received. Thank you, Elseline.

Dear Yukako

Over the Holiday Season I finally managed to finish the piece that I made in October in your beautiful studio and I thought I would share it will you.

I told my husband that it made me think of deep oceans and he carved two manta rays for me to use on it. One of my gifts over the season was a shawl pin that looks all tentacled so I added it too. Thank you for an awesome day. I have very fond memories of my time doing this. It hangs in my dining room where I see it every day.

Happy New Year to you and all your lovely staff. May your work grow from strength to strength.
Kind regards
Elseline

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-03T21:48:00.011-05:00

Today I opened the studio for the first business day of 2012.
I'm so happy to be here and open the door for welcoming people into Loop of the Loom.
Mari came back from her vacation in Japan and helped me to clean the studio.
The studio is refresh now! Then we received the big packages from SAORI Japan. These boxes contained a SAORI wooden loom model "Kasasagi". This will be delivered to the division of Child Life of the Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York Presbyterian as a gift from Japan. Our team has been very excited to receive this loom for children in the hospital.

I received another package from Mihoko of SAORI Worcester. This mail is much smaller. Still a lot of meaningful items were enclosed in the envelope.
The below is the announcement to SAORI weavers from SAORI Worcester.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hope all of you a very wonderful holidays.
As you may know after last 3/11/2011 many people who associates SAORI in Japan has been supporting SAORI friends who were effected by Tsunami. There are many people who had been suffering from the event. Some SAORI studios re-opened in summer or fall after the disaster. Now there are volunteer instructors who bring looms to shelters to give other victims to have opportunities to weave/relax.

Non-profit organization SAORI Hiroba in Osaka,Japan had organized projects to support Tsunami victims. The name of this project is "Omoi no Katachi". It means a form of "thinking of you" by my translation. They have been asking all SAORI weavers to donate scarves to raise fund or give to people who need them in the area where it gets snow a lot in winter. When I was at SAORI Hiroba last summer, I got the name tags of this projects to distribute to SAORI weavers in US and Canada. At last I am asking you to participate this project in any way you can.

I will send the project name tags to you as long as another paper tag which you can write your name and a message. Just one tag is enough but if you can make 2 , that would be wonderful. A group work is also appreciated.
It doesn't matter it's wool or cotton or rayon or any materials. You are donating your time, and labor with your loving, caring and thoughtful energy.

There is no due date. SAORI Hiroba emphasize this project have to run a long way. Remembering them is so important and if you can send your "form of thinking of them", that would be wonderful. At SAORI Hiroba when they have enough scarves they would distribute through a SAORI studio in Sendai or they would sell them at their gift shops/gallery and send the fund to people who are in struggling situation.

I apologize that I haven't reported more details about how the victims are doing specially SAORI friends. As long as I know there were no death in SAORI weavers' circle. But there were few studios which were damaged terribly by Tsunami. At this point some of them reopened the studio, some are on the process.

Thank you for your kind thoughts to Japan in advance. I hope our forms of thinking of them convey our friendship and encourage people who lost families, houses, jobs, health and many other things.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you'd like to be a part of this project, please drop or send your woven scarves to Loop of the Loom. I will mail the scarves all together to SAORI Hiroba in Osaka.

SAORI Volunteer College in Japan

2011-11-20T18:44:00.006-05:00

SAORI Japan introduces Ana as a student of SAORI Volunteer College in their blog. I hope you can read Japanese, otherwise use online translator.

Click>> Diary from SAORI Headquarter

From Ana in Japan

2011-11-18T09:58:00.005-05:00

Hope that everything is going well in the studio and that the Japan Society event goes well. Please let me know how it goes.

Yesterday Petch (Thailand), Eiji sensei and I went to SAORI no Mori, it was a wonderful experience. Misao Jo is frail and rests a lot in her special bed close to all studios. She seems to be "half here, half somewhere else" as it is only natural for someone of her age and sensibility. When she is present she is very present! She held our hands and squeezed them and hugged us, we had a beautiful moment.

Misao Jo wove for us at her spot with a view to the trees outside. We talked for a little bit and then I gave her my gift. She was curious about the textures of the portuguese traditional weaving from the north I offered her. She kept on rubbing her fingers on the designs.

At some point we were walking through the studio and she saw some ribbons on the floor and bent down to get them! ...the staff played with her and said that she does not have to do it... but we can see this is her determined way, still! I could feel her spirit and when she was holding my hand and our eyes met, it was very powerful.

Everyone in the studio was wonderful. We had a great time with Jo Toshiharu that showed us designs and we saw his special group of weavers (they have been weaving together for over 20 years!) at work. Wonderful pieces.

So much to tell! The big event is tomorrow and we saw the rehearsals of Amoeba last night at the studio, it moved me.

Off to the studio. Please send my regards to all in NYC.

A smile, Ana :>

Photo courtesy of SAORI no mori

NYS Sheep and Wool Festival 2011

2011-10-20T08:15:00.005-04:00

Last weekend Loop of the Loom participated once more in the fun energy of the New York State Sheep and Wool Festival at Duchess County, NY.
Our booth was a very unique and not same as other. Bright, vivid colors caught the eye of many visitors and we introduced the SAORI.
Also we had many surprises of old, new and current students visiting our stand. Thank you for stopping by!

Animals, Artisans, Materials, Colours, Creativity and many like minded visitors have contributed to a lively event. The full cycle, from the land to many finished products, is represented. All processes honored and shared, it is quite a treat. Sheep and Woll Festival is a gathering that tells us about how all is connected and makes one -literally- feel part of the web, the web of life.

Looping along, Weaving we go!

Rainbows of projects

2011-10-14T08:06:00.003-04:00

The After School Classes are starting to surprise all with the first projects materializing.
Zoe wove a rainbow; Heather and Shannan made sure their belts were long enough so that they can wear them as they grow; Sophie felted a delicate winter fairy and Maria popped by the studio to make sure we saw how her dog looks with the brand new dog leash she wove for it. SURPRISE!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

Call for Fabric! Weaving Action ... in action!

2011-10-06T23:53:00.006-04:00

It is that transitional time of the year when we prepare for the winter and the celebrations it holds.

Loop of the Loom has collaborated with the "Carter Burden Center for Aging" in last holiday season and we are ready to do it again!
We feel it is fundamental to take the SAORI spirit of giving and receiving in meaningful ways to the community around us. The SAORI Weaving community participates with hand woven and crafted gifts that are included on a gift bag offered to these house bound senior citizens.

Last year we made hanging holders that were greatly appreciated. This year we are asking for your Weaving Action contributions of woven fabric for this purpose or for your leftover pieces of fabric to assemble another original SAORI creation.

Carol, an assiduous contributor to our Weaving Action seasonal community giving, an artist and a thoughtful weaver is ahead of the game! Last month Carol brought us a bag with two long colorful strips of cloth for the purpose! THANK YOU CAROL!
This is a part of her message to Yukako. "I know what you mean about the love in the xmas weavings. I did most of the weaving during the storm (Hurricane Irene) and the power outage and I kept thinking of the people I was weaving for, thinking how terrible to be alone during a time like that, especially if they're elderly and disabled."

Let us know if you would like to participate. Looping along, Weaving we go!

New York SAORI-Kai, October 2011

2011-10-04T10:39:00.005-04:00

Loop of the Loom weavers gathered this Sunday to share work and inspiration.
Through beautiful and sensitive photographs of Yukako's trip to Senegal and Mali, she shared with all the Weaving in Action SAORI project at a foster home, Daara de Malika, in Senegal. We got acquainted with the incredible work achieved with youth finding an outlet for their creativity through SAORI weaving in such a short period of time. Yukako facilitated the creation of what seems to be an enduring project. The uniqueness of the youth's work as SAORI artists has already made it to a beautiful catalog from the Daara de Malika.
Yukako also shared with all weaving tools, traditions, detailed images of the processes and many stories from West African weaving with particular emphasis on her Indigo dying experience in Mali.

Following the inspiration from West African weaving ways, came the works of the Loop of the Loom students. It was fantastic to witness the diversity of pieces and the versatility of the simplicity of SAORI weaving warped and weft in such intricate, beautiful ways. Wabi-sabi was all over the room as we all shared and marveled at each others work. We even had the serendipitous visit of one of our young weavers who modeled one of the wee dresses presented!

A challenge that takes the SAORI weaving deeper and reaching wider to a weaving community of committed sharing through art, action and unique beauty.

Looping along, Weaving we go!

Dying Workshop

2011-10-03T10:42:00.003-04:00

Last week we had a colourful fun Monday at the studio. We gathered our warps and experimented with different materials (cotton, wool, mix of artificial fibers) and a variety of colour combinations. Concoctions of sensibilities and pigments that varied as much as the people present. Our hands testimonies of our play!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

Busy weekends. Show and Tell.

2011-09-29T08:26:00.003-04:00

Last Sunday Loop of the Loom participated in the 92nd Street Y Fair. What was supposed to be a rainy day ended up being quite active. We had the neighborhood kids (and some adults) weave bracelets and experience SAORI weaving. We had many opportunities to meet and greet new neighbors and habitues of the studio alike. Some of the kids who found us at the fair were weaving again on Monday, they couldn't wait to get to weaving some more!

This Sunday we are hosting our SAORI-Kai! Our gathering of weavers, friends, family and all curious that want to participate in the sharing of the creativity going round at the Studio. Bring your pieces to share with all and tell us about what you have been up to.

The SAORI-Kai is at our studio this coming Sunday, October 2nd from 1 to 3pm. See you then!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

Jun Okamoto

2011-09-24T21:54:00.005-04:00

Jun Okamoto is a Fashion designer living in Paris and participate in a panel discussion in the event of "SAORI Interweaving" in Japan in November.
SAORI weaving becomes his creation and lives.

Back to school - Fall Semester

2011-09-21T08:18:00.003-04:00

After School Classes have started last week and we already have beautiful pieces come to fruition. One of our student wove in her warp gradually as she finished her piece. Look at how the end of her weaving became the center piece of her poncho. She did a very skilled job at sewing and creating an identity for her fabric. No fall chill, she wove her comfort!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

More on Making

2011-09-20T10:10:00.004-04:00

This weekend we were part of the Maker Faire at the New York Hall of Science in Queens.
Bursting energy and bubbling creativity was the atmosphere we were thrilled to be a part of. The organizers of the Faire call it "The World's Largest DIY Festival"... don't know that we can assume such a superlative... there is so much of the world we do not know about. What we all witnessed, however, was a stimulating DIY dynamic which seems relevant, inspiring and strong enough to go (and come) round the world. Making it oneself -it was clear this weekend- is well beyond a craft, it brings oneself together and gathers people and purpose.

SAORI Weaving fit like a glove in the Maker Faire... creating one's own fabric to make whatever one's creativity comes up with!
Many people have a hard time even thinking about what that means. Some continue to puzzle even when in front of a working loom as thread after thread the fabric -visibly- grows. Symptoms of how our societies are so far removed from Doing It Ourselves.

However this weekend, as children and adults alike formed lines next to our looms, many more were able to feel and experience what making one's own fabric is all about. Some got excited about the idea and so intrigued about the process that they felt they wanted to come back for some more DIY at the studio. It was FUN!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

SAORI Weaving - the gift from Misao Jo

2011-09-20T08:49:00.005-04:00

Sue-chan, an owner of Artier SUYO is working on the short movie of Misao Jo. This is a preview version.

If the screen size is not fit, try this link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YieK5UG5kRM&feature=player_embedded

Observing the seasons and change

2011-09-13T23:23:00.007-04:00

A decade ago the events of 9.11 have stirred a number of changes in Yukako's life taking her to venture the SAORI way.
This past Sunday, Yukako returned to Pier 25 in observance of 9.11 where she once more had a communal piece be woven by many. In 2002 a long banner was woven on the same occasion in the tradition of Weaving Action.

Looping along, Weaving we go!

BUST Magazine Craftacular!

2011-09-12T23:55:00.005-04:00

As the daylight diminishes it brings with it the seasonal fairs and events. Loop of the Loom is going to be present at the " World Maker Faire " (http://makerfaire.com) this coming weekend -September 17 & 18 and we have been having fun preparing SAORI pieces such as a line of handy bags with character. Check it out! Hope to see you at the Fair!

Press release

SAORI Leader's Committee

2011-09-10T08:42:00.005-04:00

My student Ms. Victoria Picon received a wonderful news from SAORI Japan.
She was given the qualification to become a member of SAORI Leader's Committee!
Victoria is a sweet woman from Chile and stayed in NY in 2009 and 2010. After she moved to England, SAORI weaving became her best friend in the new place.
Within a year, her SAORI weaving has been getting popular.
Visit and see her work!
www.loomtime.com

Order Now!

2011-09-07T09:04:00.009-04:00

Families and Generations, Interlocking Inspirations

2011-09-07T07:57:00.014-04:00

Many families in all sorts of combinations come to weave at the studio. These past weeks the family dynamic was in the air and we celebrated it and share it with you.

An artistic grandmother Nancy makes sure to bring her granddaughter to unfold her own artistic vein, the result: a warm, fun and endearing moment for all. Nancy has been embracing her art work in several mediums and has just recently received a first prize! Congratulations.

Three generations meet as they weave together. A grandmother chose to bring her family to share one of her passions when they visited her from London: quality time!

Siblings bring their family dynamic into the studio: their wits, their energy and talents. Poses with finished products speak loudly!

...and remember the little inspiring dress hanging on the wall...

Yes it was the big sister of these 3 siblings, who took the challenge. Here is the end result: tchan, tchan!

Looping along, Weaving we go!

A book of Indigo

2011-08-31T22:54:00.001-04:00

I found this book at the local library last week. Unfortunately I had no relaxed time to time to read it. Because we were too busy to prepare the harricane!
This auther has been studying African indigo. Ahh.. I'd like to call her for the lecture!

SAORI Cap for present!

2011-08-31T08:21:00.007-04:00

A SAORI weaver of Loop of the Loom made a present for her partner. She saves all SAORI left over in a small box. I like the box! She picked one for this cap... here you go!

Felt two mice families!

2011-08-30T09:28:00.003-04:00

Recently I tought feltmaking to a group of 4 girls and 2 moms.
They visited Loop of the Loom first time. Soon after they came into the entrance hall, the girls had been already captured the creative desire.

Each one made a flower, a felt ball and a mouse.

Ta-da! Six mice were lined up at the end of the class!

Get busy for the craft faire!

2011-08-29T10:02:00.006-04:00

I'm posting these (sold) items to show the promoters for our sample products to sell. We need to make more!

Sharing experiences

2011-08-23T07:54:00.006-04:00

Last week we had a dyeing session where Yukako, Michelle, Pearl and Rumiko experimented with dyeing different yarns. Besides the beautiful results the session turned out to be a chemistry experiment as different dyes affect natural and synthetic fibers differently. Some warps had a mix of yarns and the results are quite interesting.

On Tuesday, by coincidence, Jeremy brought woven pieces and photos from a trip he took to the state of Oaxaca in Mexico to share with the studio. He was in Oaxaca City and Teotitlán del Valle, a village known internationally for its traditional weavers and artists. He also attended a presentation on the natural pigments used in the region and contributed what he learned to the studio's experiences with dyeing fibers.

Axelle, one of our young weavers, got very interested in a certain little dress made by one of our adult weavers. Axelle is working on her version of the inspiring little dress which has been hanging in the studio. Stay tuned... illustrations to come.

Looping along, weaving we go!

Gifts as seeds, Seeds as gifts

2011-08-15T08:29:00.004-04:00

This week we had a surprising combination of "gifts" at the studio on one day alone. Coincidentally, we had 5 beginner weavers at the same time, out of which 4 have given each other the gift of weaving for the first time. A pair of sisters, a pair of friends celebrating birthdays, an intrepid SAORI explorer. The experience revealed an intense atmosphere of creativity and mutual inspiration that was quite gratifying to all - many different styles from the peaceful to the experimental were illustrative of the SAORI experience, transformative.

Later on Stephanie, recently unemployed, came to weave for the first time as well. Driven by the recent interest in the fiber world, she is looking into creating a sustainable life through the full cycle of vegetable fibers. Her idea being planting Hemp and Flax, spinning and dying her own yarn and weaving/sewing her own clothes. In order to do that she is looking for a farm to host her for a training period as she researches and learns about all the realms involved in her "full circle" endeavor. At the end of our interesting conversation we realized how having lost her job became "a gift" that has led her to find and pursue her passion and a new purpose in life.

A SAORI Gift Certificate to experiment something new or "losing a job", "passports" to creativity and much more: seeds.

Looping along, weaving we go!

Craft season is around the corner!

2011-08-12T09:41:00.007-04:00

Our staff Michelle strongly recommends me to go the Maker Fair after she attended last year. She sent me some pictures.

This year Maker Fair is held on September 17 & 18 in Queens.
I decide to bring a loom for SAORI demonstration. It will be fun days!

Weaving Action In Action!

2011-08-08T22:31:00.007-04:00

Last week Yukako and Ana took four of our looms to join the 25th year of Sister Pat's Kid's Camp in Esopus, New York
This camp is a labor of love project brought forth jointly by Ria and by St. Helen's Parish of Westfield New Jessey. This camp for children with cancer and life threatening blood disorders, is organized jointly with the hospital and St. Helen's Parish, who provide the campers, medical staff and volunteers, who include members of the St. Helen's Parish, as well as, friends and siblings of children and families affected by life threatening illness.

Yukako has been participating for 5 years now with SAORI weaving that the kids LOVE. Some keep weaving in their memory as their favorite camp activity. Ana has joined Ria at the Hospital's outpatient clinic this year bringing weaving once a week to many of the same kids we spent time with at Camp. It was a wonderful adventure and experience as one witnesses the powerful healing tool SAORI weaving is to children and staff alike. This year's collective project was a woven Teepee! The wood shop activity partnered with the structure and the weaving was done by all. Check it out!

Looping along, weaving we go!

Exchanging Inspiration

2011-07-29T10:53:00.003-04:00

Last week we had Rozalind's jacket on the making become a coveted source of inspiration by adults and children alike. Many friends from Loop of Loom happened to just drop by and the exchanges of inspiration were many. We had the special visit of Mary Lou from Hartford, Connecticut who shared her use of cassette tape as weaving material, a creative delight.

This Summer we have been having the lively participation of our intern Ilana at the studio. Ilana is leaving at the end of the week as she prepares to go to school. Out of her experiencing of SAORI came her first piece of cloth which is turning into a wonderful sweater. Ilana's weaving has an interesting rhythm as she played with colours and textures in surprising ways. This week is your opportunity to say goodbye to her, thank her for all her work and participation and wish her well on her new adventures.

Looping along, weaving we go!

Making Connections

2011-07-11T10:18:00.006-04:00

Winter gave way to Spring and Summer and many things have been happening at Loop of the Loom. Our updates are back!

Yukako returned from a very enriching month in Africa where she shared the SAORI way with youth in Senegal and made contacts in Mali for future exchanges. Yukako also learned about a number of techniques and ways to express beauty, knowledge and culture through cloth and the Fiber Arts in Senegal and Mali. If you want to have a glimpse of her travels and a tactile feel of her discoveries, please come by the studio and check out the exhibition of the photographs, objects and cloth Yukako brought from her trip.

Also on display is a piece by Mia, a young weaver, who has been weaving for over a year at the studio. Her creativity manifested in a piece that has fascinated and inspired many as she set at her loom with her bright disposition. At times a "harp" seems to be asking to be played by little fingers, then flowers bloom in a Spring-like profusion, then one wave takes you to the other side of the river; Mia has a lot of stories to share! Tell us about what Mia's piece makes you feel and imagine. There is much inspiration looping on our walls.

This week we had the special visit of Elisa from Argentina who is a Fiber Artist working mostly with silk. She told us how she has been putting a lot of energy on starting a sustainable project of silk production in her home country. By doing so she will be stimulating the furthering of that knowledge and experience at a local scale. From her travels and exchanges with other countries she found it was the moment to make those wiggly worms travel less and start speaking Spanish! We will keep you posted on Elisa's adventures as we will have a link for her work in the near future.

Looping along, weaving we go!

West Africa

2011-03-31T22:31:00.003-04:00

You believe me or not... I go to Senegal and Mali next month.
This book makes me crazy...

Outsider Art Fair in NYC

2011-02-08T08:28:00.002-05:00

Two of my students recommend me to go this art show every year and I've never had a chance. I don't want to miss this year!

more information

Misao appiered on TV in Japan!!

2011-02-05T21:48:00.007-05:00

Misao Jo appeared on Osaka local TV in Japan.
She is 97 years old and weaves everyday.

YouTube DIY "SAORI-ORI"

Please be patient until I translate it for you soon!

Two little hints for SAORI

2010-12-14T22:30:00.008-05:00

If you don't know what you weave...remember this haiku.

"along the mountain road
somehow it tugs at my heart—
a wild violet"

山路来て
なにやらゆかし
すみれ草
composed by Basho Matsuo (1644-1694)

Misao (a founder of SAORI) read this haiku for us to remind a SAORI's way.
So I add something enchanting when I stuck my idea. I'm not a machine. Create by my heart and hands. In our adult class, we talk about this wild violet.
"Oh! You have a little violet on your weaving!"

Today I received another good hint from Ms. Carol Hunt who is a SAORI weaver and a painter. I want to share this story with you.

------Then we (Carol and her grandson) went on and worked on the painting and he didn't know what to paint. He mentioned a tree. I told him a very famous artist Matisse said when you don't know what to paint just put a dot on the paper and the dot will suggest a line and the line will suggest another line and I turned around and he had a canvas with a dot and some lines and he kept saying "another line" and he started pouring and scraping and blotting and had a beautiful painting. He looked puzzled when I told him he painted a tree after all. I told him to be the tree and look out from the trunk and see branches and grass and sky. Then he said "and autumn leaves". So I taught him a little Zen!-----

I love learning together through SAORI. Thank you!

BUST Craftacular

2010-12-13T08:40:00.009-05:00

This year is our first participant ion in the BUST Craftacular Show. As same as other years, the Metropolitan Pavilion was filled with more than 5000 shoppers and 300 art vendors.

For setting up my booth I arrived at 8:45am at the entrance of Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelsea. It was hectic to load all boxes and display racks in the poring rain! Of course cars and taxis were jamming on the street. Then I couldn't believe my eyes that I saw twenty's of people were standing the line for wantings the door opened at 10 o'clock! They were drenched! I heard the line got longer and longer to reach on 6th Avenue even after door opened.

Inside of the building was a huge opened space and many artists were already setting up their tables. My table was sandwiched between the jewelry shops. One guy came three times here and another woman from Rhode Island is the first time. There was a good mood and good artistic energy. I enjoyed to meet people, marketing research, learning display, and music. I felt the time passed so fast!

Luckily we made some pot holders and SAORI clips as 'under $20 items' on the day before the show. Those were sold well as expected.
I hope to come back next year! And thank you, Tae and Yoshiko to help me at the booth!

Come and shop at BUST Craft Show!

2010-12-08T23:04:00.006-05:00

Loop of the Loom will join in the BUST MAGAZINE Craftacular Show as the selected artist. It's very popular craft show because it's the best place to find the handmade gifts in NYC. The BUST expects 5-6,000 shoppers this year! And there are 300 vendors in one building! Come and see us at the table #138!!

Do you know "Wabi-Sabi"?

2010-11-16T22:00:00.004-05:00

Our SAORI weaving is a Zen art of weaving. We also call our style "Wabi-Sabi".
I encourage to non-Japanese students to know about Wabi-Sabi if they like SAORI way.
Here goes reference to read about it. >>>click to jump.

Feltmaking Workshop: Felt Room Shoes

2010-11-11T10:38:00.005-05:00

Sunday, December 5, 2010
11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Join our fun workshop and make your own hand felted slippers! Start with a pattern in your size that you can take home and make future pairs of warm, felted wool slippers. All materials are supplied. Bring your creative spirit and positive attitude.

$165 included materials. Space is limited

Instructor: Iona Loyola

*Bring your own hand towel to wipe your wet hands. Or an apron will be help too.

*We have a short lunch break. We have many local shops to buy a lunch.

Home Sewing 101

2010-11-08T08:54:00.009-05:00

Beginners Sewing Class
Fridays starting January 7, 2011
10:00am-12:00pm

No experience necessary!
Come and join Sewing 101 class and learn how to hand sew and get to know your sewing machine (or use ours) through a series of small projects.
Together we will make your very own kitchen set including an apron, pot holders, and a table runner.
By the end of the class, students will have learned basic hand sewing, machine sewing techniques, as well as the best spots to find all their supplies in New York's garment district.

Instructor bio>> Michelle Blair Design
$65 per single class, $350 for 6 classes

WEEK 1:
Hemming pants, sewing on buttons, mending clothing
WEEK 2:
Using the Sewing Machine, Laying out a pattern, Sew your own Tote Bag
WEEK 3:
Garment District meet up
WEEK 4:
Start kitchen sewing project - Pot Holders
WEEK 5:
Studio time for sewing project - Apron
WEEK 6:
Studio time for sewing project -Table Runner

Email from Victoria!

2010-11-07T00:51:00.014-04:00

Hello Yukako!

I'm in England. I have so many things to tell you that have been happening here in Nottingham. SAORI is my life now.
I can't stop weaving after my mother sent me the loom from Chile a month ago and it is my inspiration. I told you SAORI brings surprises to me every day.

I start telling you that a month ago I met a girl in Nottingham who just opened her own shop. Then I showed her one of my woven pieces and she loves it.

So I started weaving some simple things like scarves or shawls to put them in her shop. That gives me energy. I want to buy a sewing machine. I have woven big pieces for dresses and coats. But I have to buy the machine to finish them.

I brought my loom to her store window and wove all day! Can you believe it? I felt great! I love to do it. Everyone looked at me with smile. The energy was so good. Amazing!

One day a nice woman came to the store and gave me two bags of yarns. She just wanted to do it because she loves to weave and knows that it's difficult to find materials in this area. Can you believe it! Miracle...

Well, that's a good summary of my time here in Nottingham. I will finish my web site, and install the Internet line in our new home.

I miss so much the studio, Loop of the Loom, and everybody. Always good news from you, that's wonderful. Big kisses Yukako! I miss you!

Victoria from England

NY SAORI-kai September 2010

2010-09-26T07:51:00.007-04:00

Thank you Marie!
We had a wonderful time with you at Loop of the Loom.
Today all our friendly weavers and new friends enjoyed a seasonal SAORI meet-up. We extended the time since we needed to look at details on Marie's artworks.
(Go to facebook "Loop of the Loom" to see more photos.)

Ria who is a host for Marie's housing invited us to her house for Marie's farewell party. Some people stayed over. I wanted to join... But I need to go a street festival next day.
On Monday she leave for Canada with our wishes! Good luck!

Mom's First Sewing Class - BASIC SEWING 101

2010-09-08T23:55:00.007-04:00

6 weeks $390 (+materials)
Thursdays 10:30am - 1:00pm

GOAL OF THIS CLASS is to teach basic sewing via the construction of a child's costume. The students will learn about fabrics, hand sewing techniques, patterns, machine sewing and design. Each student should emerge with their own unique and creative costumes, an understanding of basic sewing and an introduction to the garment district.

WEEK 1: Learning the sewing machine, laying out a pattern sew a tote bag

WEEK 2: Darts, setting in a sleeve, sew a basic balanced bodice, Taking measurements, Meet about children's costumes

WEEK 3: Sewing a zipper, Hemming a garment, go to the garment district to pick out fabrics

WEEK 4: Studio day to work on costumes, Learn embellishment (sequins, beading, embroidery, pompoms)

WEEK 5: Studio day to work on costumes, Learn finishings (blind stitch, bias tape, facings)

WEEK 6: Finish costumes, Hand embellish costumes

Instructor's Bio:
Brad Callahan graduated from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a degree in Fashion Design and Illustration. His work focuses on the absurd and often mocks fashion through the complete embrace of "bad taste is good taste". Brad is currently designing two labels BCALLA and OUR, also works with the musician Colin Self in creating one of a kind identity pieces. He has shown in New York, San Francosco, Chicago, and Brusseles.

SAORI weavers' band "ZATSUGAKUDAN" performed in NYC!

2010-06-07T11:40:00.002-04:00

Meet SAORI weavers from Japan!

2010-05-09T11:33:00.006-04:00

This June will be the most exciting month of this year!
SAORI groups will come to NY and present SAORI demonstrations, fashion shows and music performances during their stay in Manhattan. Then I will trip to DC to participate in VSA International Festival with them.

The first arriving group is the SAORI staff and 5 families with children with special needs who has been weaving SAORI many years. They will perform at hospitals and join 3K walk for YAI Network's 2010 Central Park Challenge.

The second visitor is the master of SAORI, Kenzo Jo who designed all SAORI looms and has been developing new techniques for everyone.

I will welcome Kenzo and his son to Loop of the Loom on June 7th or 8th to learn many incredible techniques on a SAORI loom.

Meet SAORI weavers from Japan and share SAORI spirits!

Kenzo demonstrates new tricks to instructors from over seas at SAORI International Workshop.

NY SAORI-kai, Spring 2010

2010-05-03T23:00:00.016-04:00

A SAORI-kai was held at Loop of the Loom on Sunday.
We had a cozy group gathering this time so that we could complete SAORI hats by a hands-on instruction. Look! All beautifully-made hats!

"If I had only this instruction paper, I couldn't understand how to make it."

I agree. It's hard to understand without an instructor. I asked a couple of times to my SAORI friend in Japan over Skype for finishing my hat.

It has a trick of Origami technique.

Nobuko's big challenge! She finished a reversible fabric! She's going to make a poncho with this.

Waterfall tapestry woven by a student of zen weaving. Click to see the enlargement.

This shrug is her second garment project and will be given to her mom. I like this wide flared collar. I want to try this pattern.

This woman jumped into our SAORI-kai and tried SAORI weaving first time while we were making hats. She wants to come back again.

Please remember... NY SAORI-kai is held on the first Sunday of every 4 months.
Next SAORI-kai is on September 5, 2010.

SAORI Hat Workshop

2010-04-26T00:23:00.008-04:00

Sunday, May 2, 3-4pm

Make a hat using a SAORI woven fabric without cutting it!

You need a 7" x 67" (17cm x 170cm) woven SAORI fabric. If you have a bigger fabric, you can use it by cutting to adjust the size.

This piece will be sewn by hand stitching with ORIGAMI idea.

This amazing pattern was created by Ms. Yoshiko Hanamatsu who is a Japanese bag designer.

Learn this pattern and let's make a summer hat and also a winter hat!

Current Student: $15

Others: $20

RSVP 212-722-2686 or contact@loopoftheloom.com

VSA Arts introduces "SAORI Weaving"

2010-04-22T20:54:00.004-04:00

Click to read this article of SAORI weaving in the VSA Arts monthly magazine of May issue.

SAORI-kai Sun. 5/2

2010-04-22T01:08:00.002-04:00

Everyone is welcome to join the SAORI-kai gathering!
Sunday, May 2, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

2:00 pm: Show & Tell
Bring your SAORI works that you want to show others and share the ideas, questions, and things you have found through SAORI.

3:00 pm: Make a SAORI Hat! workshop
Share the exclusive pattern by Ms. Hanamatsu, a Japanese bag designer who has creates an amazing hat pattern for making a hat using a SAORI scarf without cutting it! This ORIGAMI idea has never been presented outside of Japan.
Bring (or start weaving) a 7"x 67" (17cmx170cm) SAORI scarf.

You have another chance!
If you missed the slide presentation about the SAORI 40th Anniversary Fashion Show last time, come early and enjoy the pictures.
+++++++++++++++++++
Current Students: $15
Others: $20
Children: Free
R.S.V.P. 212-722-2686 or contact@loopoftheloom.com

Celine's Interview

2010-03-23T20:55:00.005-04:00

This link shows you the brief interview to Celine Cannon by Video Fashion.

Click to watch the Video Fashion on YouTube.

Thanks Celine, you clearly said "SAORI" on air.
Her works will take down at the end of this month.
Hurry!

Threading Holder

2010-02-23T08:15:00.006-05:00

This SAORI new product "Threading Holder"($82) is great for people want threading on the table instead of stooping to a loom. It makes your threading work easily.

Kenzo-sensei showed us how to set a pair of harnesses and a reed into a pair of wooden blocks.
These blocks, threading holder, can fit to the harnesses of SAORI SX60 or SAORI 60 model.

You maybe set with a cross holder.

After threading through the reed, set the holder up.

And put a pair of harnesses.

Celine Cannon Textile Installation at Urban Zen

2010-02-15T21:56:00.001-05:00

Wearable Art

2010-02-08T20:15:00.004-05:00

I think Isobel found her own SAORI style.
Her design is modern, experimental, and avantgarde.
This top was two pieces sewn together diagonaly. One side curved. Another side slanted.
If you can see detail of this weaving, you find many interlocking of 2 or 3 colors. Isobel was at the gallery opening with her SAORI woven top.

Fringe Twister

2010-02-07T11:39:00.007-05:00

This tool is a MUST HAVE item for weavers.
You can spin easier and faster than a hand twister. This battery operatedd twister can make 2, 3 or 4 ply cords or twisted fringes.

Now it's available at Loop of the Loom.
Cord Maker & Fringe Twister: $48

A bunch of fringe is held by a hook.

You can make 2, 3 or 4 ply fringes.

Little girl & dad

2010-02-07T02:06:00.005-05:00

The girl couldn't put her feet on the pedals because she is 4 years old. She came with her twin sister and parents today. Her dad sat on the back of the loom and step on the pedals patiently for two hours! The girls made beautiful and precise weaving clothes.

Art Show at NYU!

2010-02-04T10:49:00.005-05:00

A friendly SAORI weaver, Isobel displays her woven rug on her school arts show "Margin" at New York University Steinhardt Art Dept.
Go to Barney Building at 34 Stuyvesant Street in East Village!

Broken-Edge Rug (Isobel Wohl, 2009)

SAORI Wedding

2010-02-03T09:16:00.003-05:00

Madoka (Misao Jo's granddaughter) sent me her wedding E-album.
I found a beautiful SAORI woven dress on her! Madoka wove this? Or Eiji sensei (her father) wove?
Soon I forwarded the E-album to a student of Loop of the Loom who is working on her wedding dress now. I know she can't wait to weave til next visiting to our studio.

Nuno Felting Scarf Workshop

2010-01-31T10:36:00.012-05:00

We've finished a nuno felting scarf workshop on last Saturday.
Six participants worked so hard for this felting 'physical' process over 3 hours.

Good job girls!

Layers of merino wool fleece are surprisingly changed by natural power!

We already plan the next project 'nuno blouce'.

If you miss this workshop, Sign up next same workshop on Feb. 20!

Nuno Felting Scarf Workshop

Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010

11:00 am - 2:30 pm

$135 icludes all materials

Reservation 212-722-2686 (Yukako)

Harness Cord Stopper!!!

2010-01-19T21:33:00.004-05:00

Introducing a new item, "Harness Cord Stopper"!

I've been waiting for this wonderful item for years!
At the studio, we frequently change the set of harness every weaver. Beginners had frustration to hang harnesses on 4 hooks by themselves. After this item attached on each loom, we don't have to ask someone for "help!" or "you need a hand?".
Thank you, Kenzo-sensei for inventing this stopper.

$8 for 4 pieces.
These should be on sale next month at Loop of the Loom!

SAORI 4 harness loom

2010-01-19T00:01:00.009-05:00

Honestly I don't know how to weave by a 4 harness loom.
I tried twice. But I gave up to follow the pattern.

Finaly I set a spring system 4-harness attachiment on our SAORI SX60 for my student. Before I try it, the student urge to weave on this loom.
She was threading patiently to start weaving tomorrow!

More pictures of SAORI-kai

2010-01-17T23:20:00.005-05:00

Thank you for coming to NY SAORI-kai!

2010-01-11T22:36:00.014-05:00

It was thrilled to meet you all! We had 23 participants!
I received many good comments about Ria's presentation and my slide presentation of SAORI Japan. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!

Seven women among the others are the students of my previous studio in New Jersey. Most of them have looms and weave at home, so this SAORI-kai is their reunion meet-up.
They requested me to sell more yarns for loom owners at the next SAORI-kai.

"I will."
After the first presentation from the children's hospital, all of us introduced ourselves with or without the works for show-and-tell presentation .

Then I showed about 200 photos from SAORI Japan's festival. I wish I had more time...

In addition Fujiko showed us her video in which Fujiko appeared on NY local cable TV last year.

Today (the day after the SAORI-kai) four participants started their new projects!
And I started to patch more scrap pieces on my jacket which I wore yesterday.
I tried to put the jacket upside-down on a mannequin. In this way SAORI weavers call "Gyakuten no Hassou =inversive idea". What a unique SAORI's way! I will post the finishing work soon!

Gifts for new born babies

2010-01-08T21:34:00.008-05:00

Recently my student (8 yr old boy) got a baby sister. He finished a stuffed animal "Manatee" just before her birthday! His mother sent me this picture. This gift is so precious!

Another gift was woven and sewn by my friend. She sent her friend's 6 months baby. He grew faster than weaving time! So now the hat fits on his teddy bear....

A Tapestry

2010-01-07T22:12:00.010-05:00

The student finished her work today.
In an organic way, fibers produce raised and waved shapes, shiny and shadow, they crossed and interlocked each other.

It's unique. Because it's handwoven.

(Click on the image to enlarge.)

NY SAORI-kai 2010!!

2010-01-03T22:52:00.005-05:00

Save the day for the first NY SAORI-kai in 2010!
Sunday, January 10, 2010, 1-4 pm

Summary:
1:00 pm
Special presentation: "Weave Me the Sunshine"--SAORI weaving with children being treated at Children's Hospital (Ria Hawks, Columbia University Medical Center)

1:40 pm

Show & Tell, Discussion, Q & A

2:40 pm
Break

3:00 pm
Slide Presentation of the SAORI Fashion Show at the 40th Anniversary Festival in Japan.

4:00 pm
Closing

Don't forget your camera, notebook and your SAORI.
R.S.V.P. 212-722-2686 or contact@loopoftheloom.com

Holiday Mini Camp

2009-12-23T21:44:00.007-05:00

We've done the 3-days Mini Camp today. These classes were so much fun and great success! We extended time to finish. Children also couldn't stop for weaving!

Morning class made the pull-over by young people. Evening class made scarves with hand-spun yarns by tween.
You guys are fabulous!

(See the movie on Classes page)

SAORI Annual Show in Osaka

2009-12-16T21:24:00.011-05:00

Totteoki (=Special) SAORI Show is held at the end of the year in Osaka. These SAORI works came from special schools, daycare centers, senior homes, rehabilitation centers and many SAORI studios.
My friend, Sue helped as a sales volunteer at the show and sent me some pictures via her cell phone.

3 color inter-locking. SAORI christmas tree in a bottle!

Famous SAORI sea turtles are clawing on a SAORI banner!

SAORI goods produced by Yu-House.

All day it's crowded by shoppers. Three days sales reached about $36K!
Wow! It's wonderful to return to special people!

Sign up for Holiday Mini Camp!

2009-12-10T16:00:00.004-05:00

Children's handcrafted gifts are always appriciated.
Our holiday mini camp is designed for creative children who wants to learn technique and experience the process by natural way.

1.5 hour per class x 3-days (Mon-Wed)
$200 (incl. all materials, Bonus: a FREE gift certificate for one-hour weaving class)

Choose the week(s)
Week 1 (12/14-16): Felted Holiday Gifts (felted soap, felt gift card holder, felted gift wrap charms, etc.)
Week 2 (12/21-23): Weave a Pullover (weave & sew to constract the clothing)
Week 3 (28-30): Make a Pillow (decorate with felted pompom)

Announcing the next New York SAORI-kai!

2009-11-25T22:16:00.007-05:00

Sunday, January 10, 2010
1-4 pm
Don't forget your camera, notebook and your SAORI.
R.S.V.P. 212-722-2686 or contact@loopoftheloom.com

Message from SAORI Japan

2009-11-24T09:54:00.014-05:00

SAORI International Forum
"Awakening to Our Inherent Sense"

by Eiji Jo (Misao's son)
A president of a non-profit organization "SAORI Hiroba"spoke on Nov. 9, 2009 in Osaka, Japan

Every single life is created only by life.
We should take advantage of experiencing it.
Create something to express your own feeling.
Expose your spirit you are not recognized.

I believe that Awakening to our inherent sense will be the turning point for people today. We were born from the great nature. Though we left the nature, God and Buddha that something we respect and we are already so far away from them.
I think that people today lost their spirits and they are far away from them. That's why this world is sick today.
I feel that SAORI will be able to tell us the way to awake our spirit and the way to remind of our root of lives.

SAORI allows you to weave your own way. We can weave however we like. Because there are no mistakes, there are no samples.
I've seen a lot of people who found the pleasure discovering themselves through SAORI.
At the beginning, it is challenging for us to weave and we come to weave more and more boldly. At the end, we find ourselves being crazy about weaving.
When we look at what we created, we are able to discover ourselves. We find the joy to see the moment that our own lives come out. As we weave, we see ourselves and at the same time we are creating a piece. This is why SAORI fascinates us. I believe this is the real creating and living.

There is no concept of mistake. Even if the yarn frays out, the selvage is not straight or you take a wrong process, so called MISTAKE can be good modulations and your originality. This concept can change the way of living and open up our mind. Something hiding inside of you will come out through SAORI. Then we are able to see ourselves. We are excited and delighted to find to see yourselves. That's why we weave more and more because we want to see yourselves that is hiding inside of you. Not only that, once you finish a piece, people put much value on it and praise it. They tell you the beauty of yourselves that was hiding inside of you. What a great moment it is!

The new Japanese Prime Minister Mr. Hatoyama spoke in general policy speech. "People can feel happy only when they are put value, are appreciated and are needed by people." He mentioned this phrase to show the basic attitude to people with disabilities. But I think that this phrase also can apply to people without disabilities.

Nowadays young artists are moved and shocked by SAORI banners. They bring the wild beauty of SAORI into their work and create new fashion and art. The artists today are challenging themselves to the new stage are also finding themselves by interacting with SAORI banners.
I can feel that the new culture will be born.

Back from Japan!

2009-11-20T00:03:00.005-05:00

I'm busy to organizing digital pictures that I took in Japan where we had the greatest SAORI festival ever! I met lots and lots of wonderful SAORI weavers. I want to go with all of you next time which will be Misao's 100th birthday celebration in 2012. Please be patient to view the pictures.

Until then... I paste one picture from Japan. Do you understand how to weave this? This tapestry was displayed at the event hall.

(Click to enlarge)

Visitors!

2009-10-23T08:58:00.005-04:00

We hosted a school tour from Parsons The New School of Design.

Students tried weaving and spinning at Loop of the Loom. We had only two hours to show all process! But these young people absorbed all about SAORI and spinning skill. Fun class with art students!

We also greeted 9 guests from the United Nations. It was an international weaving day!

Botanical Art of Pressed Flowers

2009-10-19T21:51:00.005-04:00

Botanical Art of Pressed Flowers
by Eiko Yamagishi

Nov. 3 - 15, 2009

Eiko Yamagishi will be holding workshops at Loop of the Loom along with her craft show during November. At each workshop you will be able to learn her technique to capture the life and beauty of nature's creations. She will display various botanical artworks and you can make unique holiday cards from real pressed flowers.

Holiday Cards Workshops
Nov. 6 11am - 12:30 pm
Nov. 7 11am - 12:30 pm
Nov. 8 11am - 12:30 pm

$20 /1 class
$50 /3 classes

Weaving in Action!

2009-10-15T23:58:00.006-04:00

Wow! The wonderful news from a friend of Loop of the Loom!
Ms. Susan Warren shares the story to progress with L'Atelier FSPN. She finally delivered a SAORI loom from Loop of the Loom to Canada! We all hope her Canadian friend Marguerite will make success of SAORI weaving in her center.

Community Life and Recreation

Border-Crossing Generosity
The FSPN Workshop receives a special loom

Jessy Laflamme

Susan Warren, an American artist from New Jersey, has donated a loom to the participants of L’Atelier de formation socioprofessional de la Petite-Nation (AFSPN) (The Petite-Nation Socio-Professional Training Workshop).

Last year, Ms Warren visited the workshop with her friend Marguerite Lepage from Ripon. She demonstrated her portable Japanese-built loom especially designed for easy use by the handicapped.

Upon returning to the United States, she decided to donate a loom adapted to the needs of the Saint-André-Avellin workshop participants. She then undertook a fund-raising campaign.

Last September the 24th she returned to the FSPN Workshop to present her gift.

“It is with deep gratitude that the FPSN board members, employees and clients thank her for her commitment and wonderful generosity and we honour her in particular.” Said the FSPN Workshop’s Director, Katherine Pronovost.

Wednesday October 14th 2009 La Petite-Nation http://www.info07.com/ page 33

Fujiko appears on aother TV show!

2009-10-13T08:42:00.003-04:00

A friend of Loop of the Loom, Fujiko announces that her SAORI clothing will be appearing on "HOW TO ..." on Brooklyn Local access TV. Don't confuse with the past Jazz Show. This is second appearance of Fujiko on TV this year! Enjoy the show!

Wednesday. October 14
2:00 - 2:30 pm

Online TV:
BRIC Community Media :: BRIC Arts Media Bklyn
Click on BCAT2 to watch.

Cable TV:
Time Warner ch.35
Cablevision ch.68
RCN ch.83
Verizon ch.43

SAORI Co-op Scarf Show!

2009-10-08T11:10:00.008-04:00

Hi all friends of Loop of the Loom!
We decided to have a Scarf Show this month starts Oct. 12th. Bring your SAORI scarves NOW! If you won't sell to others, that's fine! You just put a note on the tag.
Please hang a tag with

YOUR NAME (or nickname, brand name...)
TITLE of the scarf (if you want)
PRICE (Don't forget to add 10% commission for Loop of the Loom. You can write "priceless!" if you won't to sell)

Call for any questions at 212-722-2686.

Bamboo Moon

2009-09-20T11:30:00.005-04:00

A painter, Carol Hunt also joins in New York SAORI-kai. She couldn't come here but sent me her photo album. Share her album and be inspired by her universe through SAORI.

by CAROL HUNT - WEAVINGS/Bamboo Moon
(Click to see "Green Moon" and "Coat-Striped" also.)

Another new idea!

2009-09-19T08:36:00.004-04:00

New York City has been having its exciting events of Fashion Week. Hey! SAORI weavers! We should have a SAORI fashion show next year during New York Fashion Week! What about the same gallery for our last fashion show in Soho?

SAORI-kai Album

2009-09-18T10:23:00.004-04:00

We decided to protect the rights of SAORI weaver's work on the online album. I've just finished the album and sent out to all participants and some selected friends of Loop of the Loom.
Please understand we can't show all pictures with their faces on public internet. If you'd like to share our album, please send an email.

contact@loopoftheloom.com

Join in SAORI-kai !

2009-09-10T23:17:00.004-04:00

Meet SAORI weavers like you! We all need to inspire each other.
Share new ideas and new projects!
We received RSVP from 15 people. Wow! If you haven't reserve your spot, call now!
Don't miss this!

New York SAORI-kai (SAORI weaver's gathering)
Sat. September 12
1:00pm-3:00pm
(212) 722-2686

Current student: $10
Non-student: $20
Children: Free

Satomi's SAORI tops

2009-09-05T00:22:00.005-04:00

Satomi is a Jewerly designer. She eagered to expand her creativity with a different art form. And she reached to SAORI last year when she visited to her family in Japan.
She joins our advanced class.
Look at this white top! The silver top was finished in Japan this summer. And white top was finished only two times visiting! Her pattern is so simple. We'll share this idea at the SAORI-kai on Saturday, Sep. 12th.
See you then!
Her website: http://satomikawakita.com

Kool Aid Dyeing

2009-08-30T20:37:00.016-04:00

We had a Kool Aid Dyeing day this summer.
Just use 4 flavors (Cherry, Lemon, Orange and Grape). Every year, it's hard to find these artificial colored juice powders. I know it's not healthy to drink, but it's a safer way to dye. And the smell is so good during the work!

We recomend you to mix multiple colors and add GRAPE! Its color applied is chic and deep. Yellow is not shown....

This girl is kniting a hat with her hand spuned & dyed chunky yarn!

Instructor Training Course

2009-08-24T22:24:00.018-04:00

This summer I had a wonderful time with Yoshiko who took an Instructor Training Course for the month of July. She spent almost every day at the studio for weaving. We talked and talked about SAORI. She discoverd herself through HER weaving and others. Some accidents and mistakes had been changed to new idea and design.Here are her works! These are not everithing she's done!

Meet at the NY SAORI-kai on Sep.12 and see these SAORI works!

Fashion School on 87 for Teens!

2009-08-22T15:16:00.007-04:00

Come Join me for fashion classes at Loop of the Loom!

(Click FS-87 to see new page on my website.)

Sarah Boom will not only teach a session of fashion classes, but also embroidery, beadwork, buttonholes, jewelry making, applique, fashion illustration, zippers, and more!

Teens from the ages 12-18 are invited to come learn and explore their future in fashion at the studio. She will be hosting an open house each weekend until the start of classes to meet with students to sign up for classes.

This photo is Sarah's previous class in Chicago.

OPEN HOUSE:

Sat. 8/29, 1–4 pm

Sun. 8/30, 2–4 pm
Sat. 9/5, 1-4 pm

Sun. 9/6, 2-5 pm
Sat. 9/12, 1-5 pm

Summary of SAORI 40th Aniverssary Event 2009

2009-08-13T22:30:00.008-04:00

"Awaking of Inspiration-Things that change, things don't change."

Sat. Nov. 7
* Arrival in Osaka, Japan
* Welcome Reception at SAORInomori

Sun. Nov. 8
Symposium "INTERWEAVING TOGETHER 2009"
at City of Osaka Public Auditorium

1:00pm Door Open - Movie "Generation of Spirit"
1:30pm Opening Ceremony - Fashion Show Part 1 "Expanding Flow"
1:40pm Greeting and Introduction by Misao Jo
1:50pm Lecture "Humans & Nature & Communication" by Ken Terawaki
(2:50pm Intermission)
3:00pm Fashion Show-Part 2
3:15pm Forum I "The Origin of SAORI"
3:35pm Forum II "Future of SAORI"
3:55pm Introduction of foreign participants
4:05pm Fashion Show-Part 3
4:25pm Closing Ceremony by Eiji Jo

Evening Gathering at the RIHGA Royal Hotel

Mon. Nov. 9 International Symposium "INTERWEAVING TOGETHER"

10:00am- Noon Report from SAORI Japan + International Presentation
1:00pm- SAORI's Tips & New Products by Kenzo Jo (option)
3:00pm- Closing message by Tetsuya Jo

Tues. Nov. 10 9th Anniversary SAORI International Forum

10:00am- SAORI Workshop (Recycling and Weaving ,Natural materials and ecology)

Wed. Nov. 11 9th Anniversary SAORI International Forum

10:00am- SAORI Workshop (continued)

Thurs. Nov. 12

Departure from Osaka, Japan

Ask Yukako for attending this event.

SAORI Bags

2009-08-06T22:37:00.008-04:00

Have you ever made a bag from SAORI woven fabric?

After finished a scarf, you probably want to have a SAORI bag.
I want to share some ideas for bag making.

We have more bags coming up this summer!

One month studio pass

2009-08-04T22:02:00.007-04:00

I'd like to introduce some projects which's done by a student who is taking an instructor training course this summer. For an instructor training course, I strongly recommend to take a "one month studio pass" during the summer vacation. Through this course, she had teaching experience at our mini camp, the camp from the children's hospital, and adult advanced class. I can't wait to see her latest project will be sewn and finished.

Rugs by SAORI

2009-08-03T23:39:00.008-04:00

We had a Rag-Rug class in kids camp last week. Children finished each cool rugs from setting warp in three days! This girl used her grandma's pants and mom's shirt into weaving. This rug has many stories!

This five years old girl brought a wonderful idea to weave her old clothes. Look! All pieces are stick out on each line!

She is in advanced class and recently finished a rug for her kitchen. It's nice color! She is weaving for another rug. Soon her apartment will transform into a textile gallery!

SAORI weaving exhibition "WATERFALL II"

2009-08-03T01:29:00.003-04:00

Looms are on the way from Japan!

2009-07-26T23:23:00.003-04:00

Hello SAORI weavers!
Loop of the Loom ordered SAORI looms to Japan and will receive them in mid-August. If you plan to buy it, hurry to reserve for yours.

SAORI Exhibit in NJ - WATERFALLS II

2009-07-09T22:19:00.003-04:00

Loop of the Loom
presents
SAORI weaving exhibit "WATERFALLS II"
at
Englewood Public Library, NJ

Now through July 28, 2009

Friday, July 10, 5:30-7:00pm Artist's Reception
Tuesday, July 14, 7:30pm Hands-On Weaving Workshop (Free)

"Going Back to the Origin of SAORI's Spirit".

Englewood Public Library
31 Engle Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
(201) 568-2215 www.englewoodlibrary.org

SAORI clothing appears on a TV show!

2009-06-30T10:43:00.005-04:00

A friend of Loop of the Loom, Fujiko announces that her SAORI clothing will be appearing on "Groove Master's Show" on Brooklyn Local access TV.

Jazz player, Kazuko plays her piano in Fujiko's hand woven scarf , and Fujiko wears her hand woven dress on the show.
Enjoy music and talk on Saturday night July 18th!

Groove Master's Show
with your host,Wally Gator Watson

Sat. July 18, 5:00 - 5:30pm
Online at www.bcat.tv, Stream 1

in Brooklyn
NYTime Warner Ch. 34
Cablevision Ch.67
RCN 82Verizon 42

in Manhattan & Queens
Verizon 42

Japan Day on May 31st.

2009-06-22T00:56:00.004-04:00

Click this image to see the album.

Japan Day @ Central Park 2009

Handspun Coil Yarn

2009-06-21T21:43:00.005-04:00

I made a couple of skein of yarns.

Here is a two plyed yarn with single thick & thin yarn and thin yarm. Another picture shows coil yarn which is also plyed with single thick & thin yarn and one weaving yarn from my rack.

Needle Felting "Sheep Meadow"

2009-05-17T00:40:00.003-04:00

I'm working on this felting meadow. It's 80% done. I need a shephard and a tree. (Click on the images to enlarge.)

Organic Weaving

2009-04-30T22:28:00.011-04:00

Randum threading

Playing with fibers

So soft!

Creative experiment

These are result!
If you want to try, call for reservation for 2 Fridays.

Alpaca Farm Tour

2009-04-17T08:18:00.002-04:00

Sunday, May 17

Loop of the Loom is invited by Patricia of Shalimar Alpacas Farm to meet newborn alpacas!
The village of Warwick is just one hour from NYC. We have a special learning program from raising alpacas to a beautiful shawl. As you know the international market for alpaca product is enormous with demand always exceeding supply. Did you know the reason?

1. It is 7 times warmer than wool.
2. It is non-allergic, since it does not need strong chemicals to be cleaned at the mill.
3. It has 22 natural colors.
4. It can be extremely soft to the touch, especially when you carefully choose fleece quality, as we do.
5. It will not burn unless it is put directly into a flame.

Patricia show us more about fibers.
Details coming up soon!

Adult $12, Child under 17 $10

Call for Entries: WATERFALL 2

2009-04-12T02:11:00.004-04:00

Going Back to the Origin of SAORI's Spirit

This year SAORI weavers celebrate the 40th anniversary of SAORI. At this turning point SAORI headquarters proposes that all SAORI studios and weavers have exhibitions of the same theme, "Going Back to the Origin of SAORI's Spirit". Loop of the Loom is planning a SAORI weaving exhibition titled WATERFALL 2 at the Englewood Public Library in NJ during the month of July 2009. Selected SAORI works from Loop of the Loom will also be exhibited at the ceremonial sites of the 40th anniversary event in Japan in Novenmber 2009. Enter this collaborative show and create a gigantic waterfall one more time! Dead Line: mid June

Need Volunteers for JAPAN DAY @ Central Park

2009-04-06T21:20:00.004-04:00

Finally we are chosen as one of Japanese activities for Japan Day* this year.
It will be held on Sunday, May 31 in Central Park .

We need some volunteers who want to take part in SAORI activity at Japan Day 2009.

Help us for at least 2 hours.
Have knowledge to instruct SAORI weaving for beginners and young children
Wear your SAORI work on the day

* Japan Day is an event designed by the Japanese community to promote understanding of Japanese culture. You'll enjoy the stage show, free food, traditional and contemporary family-friendly activities featuring robots, origami, calligraphy, toys and games throughout the day.

Thank you letter

2009-04-02T21:36:00.003-04:00

I received a pretty card from students of Parsons School of Design who took my class last month. I wore my reading glasses to read their message. Oh.... they are so sweet! (Click on the image to enlarge)

WATERFALL Exhibit-Reception Party-Workshop

2009-03-24T21:39:00.014-04:00

March 19, 6:30 pm
One long SAORI banner greet you.

9:25 pm
I was setting up a SAORI loom.
People came into the gallary from

the theater after GIMP's show.

9:30pm

People looked up the waterfall.

9:40 pm

This young weaver was demonstrating to visitors at the party.

Abrons Arts Center announced for the SAORI workshop.

It's FREE!

SAORI hands-on workshop on March 22.

Don't miss our show! It opens until April 2nd.
Jay Wegman, Director Abrons Arts Center

New Service!

2009-03-15T12:30:00.002-04:00

I got an approval from the building to open on Sunday and use for parties!

I start to open within a limit.

Open Sundays by group appointments, special classes/workshops.
(Include birthday parties. Foods are not allowed for parties in our studio.)
Make a reservation during new Sunday business hour from 12pm to 4pm.

Call for inquiry at 212-722-2686.