Weaving Workshop: Create a Maori Cloak

Welcome to Aho Amerika! Aho: cord, string, weft, cross threads, line of descent; that which connects, and Amerika: America!

Karley and Kapotahi are two Maori women from New Zealand who reside in the USA with years of traditional weaving experience. Weaving kakahu (garments) helps us stay grounded in our cultural values and also helps us to connect to others through sharing this knowledge.  We combine our traditional finger twining weaving techniques with modern materials to help you create a contemporary Maori feather cloak sample. If you have an allergy to feathers, we will provide an alternative embellishment for you.

Through our workshop you will learn:

• ‘Whatu aho tahi and whatu aho rua’ – our 2 main weaving stitches
• ‘Huruhuru’ – how to prepare and attach feathers
• ‘Tāniko’ – how to stitch a decorative border in 2 colors
• ‘Mawhitiwhiti’ – how to do a cross over stitch
• Add ribbon or raffia for extra embellishment
• Create a cord and tassels to finish
• Add a dowel rod ‘optional’ to hang your finished piece
• We also share oral history perspectives and encourage open dialogue

This is a beginner level class and is suitable for all 12+.