Taos High School was a winner of a Schacht Tools for Schools Grant in 2024! Learn about the work they've been doing after adding School Looms to their textiles class:
Taos High Textiles classes have been enjoying the Schacht School Looms. Before weaving, my students sewed storage bags for the School Looms. These bags allow for efficient storage of the looms, accessories, and ongoing student projects.
This year’s project was a historical look at the commercial weaving traditions of northern New Mexico in the 1800s. Students were introduced to Nora Fisher’s book Rio Grande Textiles - specifically the chapter about Rio Grande blankets. We learned about the materials and dyeing techniques, the Rio Grande Walking Loom, and the design and construction of the full-sized blankets – 2 identical striped panels seamed together. 
Next, students wove modern miniature Rio Grande blankets on the School Looms. Students learned how to change colors, how to hemstitch, how to use pick-up sticks, and a lot about tension. Their weavings were displayed on the walls of our new classroom. Some students chose to model their weavings after traditional Rio Grande blankets, trying to match colors and design motifs. Other students designed their own modern interpretation using bright colors. All weavings used a cotton warp and acrylic weft.
I look forward to expanding our skills this coming year with tapestry weaving. My plan is to teach basic tapestry techniques with a free form tapestry project and then culminate with an App Icons project. Thanks, Schacht, for your generous support.