Paper Weaving: Not Just For Kids

At some time or another, most of us have seen children's art projects where strips of colored construction paper have been woven together to make a paper mat. Weaving is one of the most basic and ancient forms of human creativity. Art projects can easily be expanded to challenge the creativity of adults by using more colors or making the patterns of the woven strips thinner and the designs more detailed.

Color Variations. You can use any type of paper material to weave with. Mix them up too. Use old magazines, newspapers, wrapping paper (e.g. birthday, Christmas, etc.), wall paper, homemade paper or whatever is handy. Experiment with color variations. Try using multicolored strips for the horizontal weaves and then white for the vertical ones. You can make a color weave theme by using only shades of red or two different colors such as black and blues. Yet another color variation is to start off with reds at the top and merge into blues at the bottom!

Pattern Variations. The simple over-under sequence can be altered from every other weave to every second or even third weave to form a regular pattern that will differ from a standard "checker board" style design. Try some variations. Instead of one-up-and-one-down, use a simple two-up-and-two-down. Make things even more interesting by using both patterns simultaneously, Row 1: two-up-and-one-down and then Row 2: two-down-and-one-up. A diagonal effect can be achieved when you offset the pattern in subsequent rows, Row 1: two-down-and-one-up and Row 2: same as before but offset it by one. See the additional image above for more pattern variations!

Get Started. First, cut out lots of paper strips. Make them thin for more detail and complexity. Adjust the length of the strips to suit your project. Longer is better, you can always cut them down if necessary. Try laying all the vertical strips on a table top and then put a length of masking tape across the top of the strips to keep them secure. Now start weaving! If you are using very thin strips in a tight weave, you may also find that tweezers are also helpful. Once you have all your strips in place you will need to put some tape on the back to keep all the pieces in place. Your weave should be tight enough for you to turn it over and do this.

 Like the German-born, American artist Josef Albers, you can use patterns, colors, and geometry to create beautiful weavings that you can make into cards or collages, use in design work, or simply hang on the wall and enjoy. You will be amazed at the variety of designs that can be created by making small changes in the paper selection and the cutting pattern! Tap into your creativity and give advanced paper weaving a try! 

The mission of the Ankeny Art Center is to be an innovative visual arts organization committed to providing superior art experiences that inspire, educate, and challenge all members of our community. For more information about exhibitions, class schedules, events or volunteer opportunities, please visit our website at: www.AnkenyArtCenter.com or stop by and visit our gallery at 1520 SW Ordnance Road, Ankeny. Our gallery hours are: Tu-Fr: 9a-1p, Th: 4p-7p, Sa: 9a-noon and you can reach us by phone at 515-965-0940 or email at: ankenyarts@ankenyartcenter.com