d i r e c t o r y
of weavers with learning disabilities
The Handloom Room's guide to where you can find beautiful handwoven work by weavers with learning disabilities - both in the UK and further afield.
garvald textiles
Garvald Textiles in Edinburgh supports people with learning disabilities to produce contemporary and high quality woven and hand-crafted goods from machine and handspun wools. Products include knotted rugs, cushion covers, wall hangings, rucksacks, scarves, table runners, rag rugs and tapestries.
​
They make Cat Brooches for the Handloom Room.
You can see and purchase their work here.
camphill mk
Camphill Milton Keynes creates a community that live, learn, work and celebrate life together for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Their Art & Craft Workshop aims to reduce stress and encourage relaxation of body and mind through art and craft as well as exercising the fine motor skills involved in art and craft activity.
They produce a range of beautiful handwoven work, including handpainted ikat.
You can see and purchase their work here.
​
brunswick york
Brunswick Organic Nursery and Craft Workshops is a registered charity based in Bishopthorpe, York, which provides a safe and stimulating environment for people with learning disabilities to work in.
​
They produce a range of attractive gift cards, gift wrap, woven goods, bird boxes and other woodworked items, all to a high quality.
​
You can see and purchase their work here.
lantern weavers
Walk into the workshop of the Lantern Weavers in Dorset and you will be greeted by an abundance of lively colour and textures. The workshop is a light filled space with an atmosphere of both intense activity and thoughtful reflection. The workshop provides a positive and stimulating environment enabling individuals with learning disabilities to lead a meaningful working life.
You can find out more here.
saori toyosaki
At Saori Toyosaki in Osaka, Japan, the handweaving instructors have learning disabilities.
They instruct people who come to experience handweaving n the peaceful and comfortable atmosphere of the 'hands-on' SAORI workshop.
​
You can find out more here.
weawin
Weawin is a unique opportunity for individuals with learning disabilities to become handweavers in Chennai, India. It was established by three NGOs - Maithree, We CAN and Vasantham. Members weave wonders using high quality cotton yarn, playing with colour, design and pattern. These unique hand woven fabrics are then remodelled into upscale, functional and one-of-a-kind products by leading designers from the textile industry.
​
You can find out more here.