Bio: Shari Nelson learned to weave in the early 2000s but has done most of her weaving after retirement in 2020. She learned on a 4 shaft Norwood workshop loom during a class taught by Cathie Mayr at Nordic Living in Nisswa, MN. Shari has tried other techniques such as rigid heddle, tablet, card and tapestry weaving but her passion is for the more complicated floor loom projects. She continues to learn and develop drafts/color plans including those inspired by Scandinavian weaves past and present. Her looms are also used to produce utilitarian items and small wearables. Recently, she acquired a Glimakra 10 shaft countermarch loom that will open up a world of possibilities.

Description: I learned to weave this Telemarksteppe draft as part of the Scandinavian Weavers Group joint project on a pre-warped loom in April of 2023. As a relatively new weaver, this was the perfect opportunity for me to experiment with a countermarch loom and linen warp and ground weft with wool pattern yarn. The color inspiration is from a rug in my Scandinavian-decorated home in Baxter, MN. To use authentic Scandinavian materials, I chose Rauma Prydvevgarn yarn for the pattern yarn. Three colors of blue were used along with red, olive and gold as accents. I learned how to plan the color sequences and treadling by using a weaving software for the first time. The first couple of days were used understanding how the draft transferred to the woven cloth and adjustments were made as I wove. The “finger loop” edge trim was fun to do and easier than I imagined. It hangs in my dining room and is a constant reminder to me that anything can be accomplished if you have the desire to learn. Why name this piece Journey? This piece is a culmination of several exploration journeys to Norway, weaving software exploration to devise color, draft and treadling plans, collaboration with weaving friends and the desire to step out and just try it.

Regarding the Scandinavian Weavers Group: This Telemarksteppe project would not have happened for me if it wasn’t for the help and advice from members of the Scandinavian Weavers Group of the Weavers Guild of Minnesota. The linen being pre-warped and threaded was of utmost importance. Members answered so many questions for me about the draft and materials needed so I could be prepared. Lisa Torvik voluntarily came down on my first assigned weaving day to show me how to operate the Glimakra Loom since I had never used one before. Every night I went away tired but more confident. I live in Baxter, MN so it required me to stay at my son’s house to be able to do this project over four days. The staff was patient and encouraging and the space was a joy to weave in with ample space and light.

shari.nelson528@gmail.com