Adventure brief
Weave a Wall Hanging
Learn to weave your own wall hanging on a tabletop loom at Whitchurch Silk Mill in Hampshire. Perfect for beginners, this hands-on workshop combines history, heritage, and creativity in a small group setting.
Located in the historic market town of Whitchurch, England, Whitchurch Silk Mill revives centuries-old textile traditions with a unique hands-on weaving workshop. This immersive "Weave a Wall Hanging" experience welcomes beginners eager to engage with crafting using a Louet table top loom—a compact but powerful tool trusted by weavers worldwide. Under the attentive guidance of Whitchurch Silk Mill’s expert team, small groups learn foundational weaving techniques and develop their own patterns and textures, creating personalized wall hangings to bring home.
Whitchurch itself sits amid Hampshire’s gentle countryside, an area rich in heritage and verdant landscapes framed by chalk downlands and ancient woodlands. The mill’s location by the River Test, known for its chalk stream ecology, enhances the connection between natural resources and traditional crafts that powered local industry for centuries. Whitchurch Silk Mill holds the distinction of being the oldest silk mill in the UK still working on its original site, dating back to the early 18th century.
The workshop offers more than just a creative session—it’s a tangible link to the region’s industrial past and ongoing commitment to artisan skills. Within the intimate classroom setting, participants receive hands-on instruction tailored to individual pace and interest. The Louet loom offers flexibility for experimentation, encouraging makers to weave with various yarns and styles, while the Mill’s knowledgeable staff provide tips honed from years of experience.
The resulting wall hanging is not just a memento but a testament to the tactile joy of making something by hand. Whether you’re a visitor seeking an artful pause on your Hampshire itinerary or a local drawn to reviving heritage crafts, this workshop is a stellar, off-the-beaten-path pursuit. Whitchurch Silk Mill merges outdoor culture, history, and creativity seamlessly, standing out as a cultural landmark and crafting destination.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Set-Upinfo
Give yourself time before the workshop starts to get comfortable with the loom and materials.
- 02Wear Comfortable Clothinginfo
Choose clothes that allow free arm movement for weaving and crafting.
- 03Ask Questionsinfo
The small-group format is designed for personalized attention, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance.
- 04Take Care with Toolsessential
Louet looms are delicate; handle shuttle and heddles gently to avoid damage.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable clothing
Allows easy movement for weaving and attending the workshop comfortably.
EssentialNotebook and pen
Useful for jotting down techniques and pattern ideas during instruction.
Reading glasses
Helpful for close-up viewing of weaving details, especially for those who use them.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated helps maintain focus during the workshop session.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Walk the River Test footpaths just behind the Mill for peaceful waterside scenery., Visit the nearby St. John the Baptist Church for its historic architecture and quiet grounds.
Local fauna
Kingfishers along the River Test, European water voles in adjacent river habitats
Historic heritage
Whitchurch Silk Mill, dating from 1800, is the oldest working silk mill on its original site in the UK, preserving the craft of silk weaving through centuries.
Mindful exploration
The Mill actively promotes sustainable textile practices with a focus on locally sourced materials and environmentally mindful teaching.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Inside the Mill’s weaving workshop to capture the looms in action, Exterior Mill building with the River Test in the background, Nearby riverbank footpaths for natural textures and reflections
- Subjects
- Weaving looms and tools, Finished textiles and wall hangings, River Test landscapes
- Best times
- Mid-morning light, Afternoon golden hour, Overcast soft light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need any prior weaving experience?
No prior experience is required; the workshop is designed for beginners.
Can I take my woven wall hanging home?
Yes, each participant creates and keeps their own finished wall hanging.
What materials are used in the workshop?
Participants use various yarns and threads provided by Whitchurch Silk Mill, suitable for tabletop looms.
How many people are in each workshop group?
Groups are small to ensure personalized instruction, typically fewer than 10 people.
Is the workshop wheelchair accessible?
Whitchurch Silk Mill has made efforts to be accessible, but please contact them directly to discuss specific needs.
Can children participate?
The workshop is primarily aimed at adults, but interested older children may join with prior approval from the Mill.