Old Braiding Machinery Workshop in Paris: Discover Ancestral Craftsmanship
L’Atelier de Tressage welcomes you to the heart of the Marais (3 rue Saint-Gilles, Paris 3rd) for a unique old braiding machinery workshop. Join us to discover the art of textile creation on authentic 200-year-old wooden looms.
Where does the workshop take place?
Our workshops are held right inside our shop-atelier. Open to everyone from age 12 and up, our sessions allow you to discover the history of textile production and learn how to operate our historical wooden braiding machines dating from 1830-1900.
Our mission is to share our rare craftsmanship through a hands-on experience where you will create your own bracelets, shoelaces, or cords.
Your Old Braiding Machinery Workshop Program
Experience a unique four-step training session on vintage industrial equipment:
- Choosing Eco-Responsible Materials: Every session begins with selecting threads. We exclusively use upcycled yarns (organic cotton, wool, linen) sourced from SCF’s factories in France, ensuring your creation is as sustainable as it is beautiful.
- Learning to Use the Winder: You will learn to use the winding machine to prepare “bobbins.” Proper tension is key when working with antique braiding tools.
- Setting up the Heritage Loom: We will teach you how to set up the spindles and thread the machine. Once ready, you will operate the loom manually using a crank before engaging the automatic mode. Even as old braiding machinery, these looms are motorized via leather belts—a fascinating look at industrial history!
- Creating Technical Patterns: Depending on where the bobbins are placed, the pattern changes. You will produce a 2-meter length of your custom design.
- Finishes and Aglets: Finally, we apply aglets (the technical term for shoelace tips) to transform your braid into a finished product: bracelets, glasses holders, or custom shoelaces.
Is Braiding on Antique Machines Difficult?
Rest assured, this old braiding machinery workshop is accessible to everyone! Thanks to the expertise of our master braiders, you will quickly master the techniques required to handle these “old ladies” from the 19th century. You will leave with unique pieces made by you, and a completely new perspective on textile art.
While at the atelier, you can also browse our Made by Bobine collection, including the Tabcord stool and the CABA bag, or explore our high-end haberdashery.
Workshop Pricing & Booking
Atelier de Tressage offers 3 options for our braiding classes:
- “Solo Offer” €49: For individuals (18+).
- “Duo Offer” €88: For 2 people (includes a 10% discount).
- “Teen Offer” €30: For ages 12 to 18.
Special Deal: Book both a Kumihimo workshop and an old braiding machinery workshop to receive a 15% discount automatically!
Practical Advice for Your Visit
Since we regularly grease our heritage machines, we recommend wearing simple, washable clothing. You might get your hands (and potentially your clothes) a bit dirty while setting up the looms. Bringing an apron or a smock is highly recommended!
Ready to try it yourself? Click below to book your spot in our next session.