Weaving on Burlap with Kids -

Weaving on Burlap
Weaving camp has been over for a couple of months now and I’m finally getting around to updating the last of the lessons I taught for the camp. Just a refresher, the weaving camp was for kids going into kindergarten to about 3rd grade. Each day focused on a different type of weaving and kids could sign up for one day or all of the days. Each class lasted for 2 1/2 hours (approximately– we had a break in there). One of my favorite weaving projects was weaving on burlap. First you need to cut the burlap into rectangles about 8 x 10″. Then the kids will pull out a few threads here and there from the burlap to create a space for weaving. Just choose either horizontal or vertical threads to pull out. Stay away from the top or bottom edge, otherwise the piece will keep unraveling. So, then you can use yarn (with a plastic needle) to weave over and under in the spaces you have created by pulling out threads. Show the kids how they can skip a few strands– they don’t need to go over each and every strand.

Immerse yourself in this woven textile piece with colorful threads and yarns on a purple background, featuring pink, blue, and flower designs.

3rd graders’ burlap weaving with feathers

The kids can also weave in feathers, ribbons, pipe cleaners, or loopy wire and beads. I would encourage them to use some thicker materials otherwise they might become frustrated at the amount of time it takes to weave. Time is up and someone is not finished?? No problem! Just take some foam stamps and tempera paint and have the child stamp in the blank spots.