Introduction to Braiding on Wood Looms (2 hours)
Number of participants:
- Adult(s): 18 years and older
- Teenager(s): from 12 to 17 years old included
- Duo: 2 people (18+ years old)
- Trio: 3 people (18+ years old)
Description
Atelier de Tressage welcomes you to the heart of the Marais, at 3 rue Saint-Gilles (Paris 3rd), to introduce you to the art of braiding on Wood Looms from 200-year-ago.
Where does the Braiding on Wood Looms workshop take place?
Our workshops are held directly within our Boutique-Atelier. Accessible from age 12, our sessions allow you to discover the history of braiding and learn how to braid on our authentic wooden looms dating from 1830–1900. Our mission is to share our rare and exceptional craftsmanship through a unique, hands-on experience where you create your own bracelets, shoelaces, or custom cords.
Workshop on Braiding with Wood Looms : A 4-Step Training
- Choosing the Threads: Every workshop begins with selecting your threads and colors. We exclusively use upcycled and eco-responsible threads from the SCF (Société Choletaise de Fabrication) (organic cotton, wool, recycled polyester, linen, etc.). Why upcycled? Our partner, SCF, provides us with high-quality threads that would otherwise be discarded by their factories (based in Western France) due to small remaining quantities.
- Learning the Bobbin Winder: You will learn how to use a “canneteuse” (bobbin winder) to create your bobbins (cannettes). These are wooden supports around which the threads are wound with precise tension.
- Setting Up the Loom: You will learn how to set up the loom using metallic supports called spindles (fuseaux). You can choose the shape of your creation: for a round cord, we add a central core called an “âme” (soul). Once set up, you will operate the loom manually using a crank. If everything is running smoothly, we switch to automatic mode.
- Fun fact: Despite their age, our looms are automatic! They are powered by leather belts connected to a motorized drive shaft. In the past, this was powered by a water wheel; today, we use a motor—much more practical for Paris! While the machine runs, we discuss the history of braiding and textiles.
- Pattern Creation & Finishing: We explain how to position the bobbins to create different patterns. Depending on the setup, the design changes. Each pattern results in a 2-meter production. Finally, you will add metal tips (available in gold, silver, or gunmetal) to transform your braid into bracelets, eyewear cords, or shoelaces.
Is braiding difficult?
Don’t worry, braiding is accessible to everyone! Thanks to the expertise of our trainers, you will quickly master the essential techniques. You will handle “Old Ladies” from 1830–1900 to create unique items made by you and for you. You’ll never look at a cord the same way again!
You will also have the chance to browse our shop products: haberdashery, shoelaces, the Tabcord stool, and the CABA bag by Made by Bobine.
Pricing
- “Solo Offer” – €49: Adults (18+).
- “Duo Offer” – €88: 2 adults (18+) — 10% discount included.
- “Teen Offer” – €30: For ages 12–18.
- Bundle Deal: Book both a Kumihimo and a Wood Loom workshop and get 15% off your cart automatically!
Advice & Tips
We recommend wearing simple, washable clothing. We grease the machines regularly, so it is likely you will get some on your hands or clothes. Also, the threading tool can sometimes catch on delicate fabrics. Ideally, bring a smock or an apron.
