Bio: Judy Larson began weaving when her mother got her great-grandmother’s loom out of the grainery 22 years ago. She was given a used loom, and began her learning journey, always ready to take on a challenge. Primarily a rug weaver, she enjoys using fabrics in creative ways and exploring Scandinavian weaving traditions. Retired from teaching elementary school, she now teaches weaving and enjoys sharing her passion with weavers of all ages. Judy Larson now has a weaving studio at Color Crossing in Roberts, Wisconsin where she weaves on an 8-foot Cranbrook loom and a 10-foot Glimakra loom. She incorporates several different techniques such as shaft switching, taquete, and rosepath into her weavings. She is the leader of the Rag Rug group at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota and is also active in the Scan Weavers and New and Occasional Weavers study groups. Weaving encourages her to play with color, texture, design, pattern, and materials. There is enough challenge and new learning to keep her busy for years, creating pieces that are uniquely hers, while still being functional. Combining design, color, and durability always leads to wonderful surprises, even when carefully planned out, which keeps weaving both amazing and satisfying.

Description: This piece was inspired by a Nicross (9 cross) design on wallpaper at Vesterheim in Decorah, Iowa. Taking that design and recreating it as a square weave wall hanging was a lesson in patience, persistence, and careful counting! The initial block pattern was off, so it was unwoven and rewoven with the correct block placement. Using blue and yellow fabrics instead of yarns gives the weaving a unique texture, while still honoring the initial design. This wall hanging has been shown at Vesterheim.

Regarding the Scandinavian Weavers Group: The Scandinavian Weavers Group are skilled weavers who are inspiring others, encouraging others, and genuinely passionate about preserving traditional techniques and sharing their legacy. Being a part of this group has enhanced my own weaving skills and expanded my circle of friends. Taking on a cooperative weaving project with American Swedish Institute as part of the Karin Larsson: Let the Hand Be Seen exhibit, the members had the opportunity to demonstrate weaving for many visitors. It was so popular that visitors began asking, “Are the weavers here today?”

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