Manual weaving

Manual weaving

 

 

 

The reason why our Monastic Family has chosen to weave manually is inspired by the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Our work is inspired by the simple example of love and faithfulness given to us by the Son of God who, during his 'hidden life', worked for thirty years with his own hands as a carpenter in Nazareth.

Maybe it is possible, within this context, to understand how manual weaving can inspire both one's heart and mind. As well as being a wonderful way of enriching one's own understanding and respect for each and every culture, it provides real opportunities for collaborating with those from a variety of other experiences and traditions.

The weaver does not only produce a cloth woven with his own hands. He also provides a reflection of his own life, his environment, his culture and the inheritance he has received from past generations. There are a vast variety of designs and colours possible and the technique developed over the years is of a very high quality. Nevertheless, however capable the weaver, there will always be an element of 'imperfection' in each human hand. The projects and ideas of weavers mirror the constant, yet never accomplished, desire of humanity for beauty, harmony and unity in the world. The work of the weaver should unite body, mind and spirit while allowing his/her own relationship with other people, with God, and with God's creation to grow and flourish.

The weaving laboratory's production includes furnishings and clothing using only natural fibres (linen, silk, wool).  Each garment is modelled to the requirements of the customer allowing for the capacity of the looms currently in use.

In every stage of production the items (whether garments or furnishings for the liturgy, blankets, bedspreads, scarves, shawls, tablecloths, rugs, mats, tapestries etc.) are carefully worked by hand.