The OVWSG offers workshops on topics of interest to weavers, spinners and other textile artists. Our courses range in difficulty from absolute beginner to advanced techniques. Class sizes are small, and workshops have a maximum of 6-8 students. Registration is online.

New schedules generally come out twice per year, in August and November.

• Basketry
• Dyeing and Colour
• Felting
• Fibre Preparation
• Spinning
• Weaving
• By Request workshops

Want to know what workshops are coming up? Have a look at our Calendar or our list of workshops by date.

Information about our teachers
Levels of instruction

Where are we located?

Unless otherwise indicated all workshops are held in either our Studio or Classroom located in Heartwood House 404 MacArthur Ave, parking is available on the street and in the back parking lot after 5 pm and on weekends (please do not park in the front lot which is reserved for the businesses located there). We are also easily accessible by bus—check the OC Transpo site for routes and schedules. Enter via the main entrance in the centre of the building. After hours and on weekends use the intercom to buzz the OVWSG-Classroom or OVWSG-Studio. Your instructor will buzz you into the building.  To access the classroom take the stairs or elevator to the 2nd floor, follow the signage to the long hallway, the classroom is towards the end on the right.  To access the Studio take the short hall to the left of the elevator, turn right and the Studio is the last door on the right.

When are the workshops?

Our current workshop schedule runs September to December 2023. More workshops can be added by requesting them from the Registrar (see “By Request” instructions). Workshops are generally scheduled on weekends but we can offer a few during the week. If a group of students would prefer a weekday or weeknight workshop please contact the Registrar. If you don’t see exactly the topic you are looking for, please refer to our “By Request” page.

Why choose our workshops?

Our small class size offers a better learning experience. The new Studio is comfortable, bright and inviting. Equipment is provided for use during workshops unless otherwise specified. Please advise the Registrar if you would like to bring your own.

How to register

To register, complete the online registration form on the workshop description page.  Registration is complete only when payment is received, until then your spot is not guaranteed. Online payment guarantees your place in the workshop.

A minimum of 4 paid registrations are required in order for a workshop to run, workshops with fewer than 4 completed registrations at least 2 weeks before their start date will be cancelled.

If a workshop is full you will be able to get on a waiting list. The workshops registrar will email you if a place becomes available.

Payment methods

Payment may be made using Paypal or by cheque. You do not need a PayPal account to pay using PayPal, just a credit card. If you prefer not to pay online pick “Offline Payment”  on the registration form to pay later with a cheque. You will receive an email detailing where to send your cheque. Please note that your spot in the workshop is not reserved until your payment is processed.

Cancellation policy

Cancellations by students made up to 2 weeks prior to the start date will be refunded less 5% of the registration fee. No refunds for cancellation less than 2 weeks prior to the start date unless the workshop is full and a replacement can be found, in which case a refund less 5% will be made. Last minute cancellations due to illness may be credited, with the credit to be used within 1 year of the original workshop date.

Food for lunch

You are welcome to bring your lunch and snacks. A refrigerator, microwave and Keurig coffee maker are available for your use. Coffee pods are $0.75 or you may bring your own. There are also several fast food restaurants nearby.

Can children take our workshops?

Interested children and youth under the age of 16 can participate in most of our work-shops if accompanied by an adult. The adult does not have to participate in the workshop but must remain in the room with the child. Please advise the Registrar if registering a child.

For more information contact the registrar: workshops@ovwsg.com