In-Person Workshops
Learn The Art of Backstrap Loom weaving from expert weavers in Xela
Discover the ancient Maya weaving tradition with hands-on one-to-one weaving classes at Trama Textiles in Xela, Guatemala. Led by our skilled weavers, Amparo and Oralia, our workshops offer a unique opportunity to create your own handwoven textile while learning about centuries-old techniques.
What You’ll Learn
- Preparing the wrap: Setting up the foundation for weaving
- Setting up the backstrap loom: An essential step in the weaving process
- Weaving your own textile: Using traditional techniques to create a custom handmade piece.
Summary of the Weaving Process
The journey begins with choosing your colors, a personal and creative step that reflects your intention and design. Once selected, the threads are placed in the thread winder, where they are carefully measured and wrapped to the desired length.
Next, the threads are rolled into balls to make them easier to handle. These balls are then used to create the warp on the warping board, setting the foundation for your textile. This process aligns the threads in the exact order and length needed for the final design.
After warping, the threads are transferred to the backstrap loom, where you'll begin weaving—bringing together tradition, creativity, and cultural heritage in every thread.
| Project/Course | Time | Cost in US$ | Cost in Q |
| Process Demonstration | 1 hour | $7 | Q50 |
| Coaster | 2 hours | $13 | Q100 |
| Placemat | 5 hours | $32 | Q250 |
| Scarf | 10 hours | $51 | Q400 |
| Table Runner | 15 hours | $80 | Q700 |
| Table Runner with embroidery | from 20 hours | from $102 | from Q800 |
How to Join
Classes run in Quetzaltenango from Monday to Friday, 9AM to 6PM.
You can begin any day of the week and choose to split the hours whichever way suits you.
Sign up in person at the Trama Textiles office in Xela, email us at coordinator@tramatextiles.com, or message us on WhatsApp on +502 3455 6735.
