Jacquard Weaving in the South of France

Program Night Night Presentation 
Weavers & Spinners Society of Austin
Thursday, November 14, 2019
6:30 – 9:00 pm

Northwest Recreation Center
2913 Northland Dr.
Austin, TX 78731

As with so much in weaving, looms and fibers have driven human history. The Jacquard loom is one of this things. It not only made the production of richly patterned textiles easier, but it was the inspiration for Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine, which is regarded as the first computer. And look where that has gone. It makes sense looms are essentially binary, the thread is either up or down, just like in electronics the switch is either on or off.

I spent 2 intensive weeks with Stacey Harvey-Brown in Nerac, France last April learning to weave on 140 year old Jacquard looms. These were beautiful, cranky old machines and a delightful adventure to get to know. I did the whole process from the cartoon to punching the cards (200!!) to weaving on three different looms. In this program I’ll talk not only about that process, but also about the development of the Jacquard loom and its impact.

All are welcome. Come at 6:30 pm for socializing, with the meeting starting at 7:00 pm.  Look forward to seeing you there.