The Rhode Island Weaving Center was established in December of 2020. While a new organization, it builds on a strong foundation. Starting two years ago, a group of long-time handweavers at the Saunderstown Weaving School started to discuss how to serve the ever-growing number of both beginner and experienced weavers. With leadership from the SWS, the decision was made to create a non-profit organization to expand the teaching and recognition of handweaving and other fiber arts. And hence the Rhode Island Weaving Center was born!

In May the Center established its home on the second floor of the historic Kenyon's Department Store building, on Main Street in Wakefield, RI. A studio with multiple looms has been set up, and a series of classes—both beginning weaving and other fiber arts (potentially tapestry, rigid heddle, inkle weaving) will be offered this summer and fall. 

The mission of the Rhode Island Weaving Center is to expand and advance the practice of handweaving through classes, workshops, exhibitions, collaborations, and weaving resources. The Center also serves as a location for other fiber artists to work and learn from one another.

We are all volunteers, working together to promote handweaving and the fiber arts.  We thank all of the hard work of the many, many volunteers who have helped us to open the Rhode Island Weaving Center. 

We are always looking for volunteers – if you are interested in joining us, please contact us!

 RIWC Founding Members, December 2020

Carolyn Goodrich, President

Norma Smayda, Vice President

Cathy English, Secretary

Judy Schaefer, Treasurer

Elizabeth Hill

Lynne Hale

Polly Alfonso