What to buy for a weaving workshop

A weaving workshop needs more than looms and yarn. Each participant needs a prepared workstation, suitable weaving materials, basic measuring and cutting tools, and clear printed information. Plan the quantities from your final participant list, then add a small spare stock for broken yarn, misplaced tools and late registrations. This checklist also covers the practical items people often arrange too late, including extension cords, task lighting, chilled catering and serving ware.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Work tablesqty 6
Chairsqty 24
Reception desk
Waste binsqty 3

Equipment

Table loomsqty 20
Extension cordsqty 4
Kettlesqty 2
Coolersqty 2

Lighting

Desk lampsqty 6

Weaving material

Cotton yarnqty 20
Wool yarnqty 20
Linen yarnqty 10
Cotton warp yarnqty 20
Prepared warp threadsqty 20
Weaving needlesqty 24
Weaving bobbinsqty 24
Weaving combsqty 20
Warp slatsqty 20
Felt coastersqty 20

Tools

Fabric scissorsqty 12
Measuring tapesqty 12
Pencilsqty 24
Rulersqty 12
Thumbtacksqty 2

Presentation

Demonstration pieceqty 3
Name badgesqty 24
Program flyersqty 24

Tableware

Mugsqty 30
Glassesqty 30
Platesqty 30
Cutlery setsqty 30

Kitchen

Coffee potsqty 2
Teapotsqty 2
Serving traysqty 4
Small bowlsqty 8

Cleaning

Dish brushesqty 2
Cleaning clothsqty 8
Trash bag holderqty 2

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Decaf coffee - 1 pack
- Black tea - 1 box
- Herbal tea - 1 box
- Sugar - 1 pack
- Mints - 1 box
- Semi-skimmed milk - 4 liter
- Oat milk - 2 liter
- Still mineral water - 12 bottles
- Sparkling mineral water - 12 bottles
- Cola - 4 bottles
- Cola Zero - 4 bottles
- Apple juice - 3 liters
- Orange juice - 3 liters
- Bread - 6 loaves
- Whole grain bread - 4 loaves
- Mini Bake-At-Home Bread Rolls - 36 pieces
- Butter - 500 grams
- Hummus - 1 kilogram
- Young cheese - 1,5 kilogram
- Cream cheese - 750 grams
- Turkey breast - 1 kilogram
- Cucumber - 6 pieces
- Tomatoes - 2 kilograms
- Arugula - 500 grams
- Bell peppers - 8 pieces
- Carrots - 2 kilogram
- Grapes - 2 kilogram
- Apples - 24 pieces
- Bananas - 24 pieces
- Paprika chips - 4 bags
- Plain chips - 4 bags
- Mixed nuts - 1 kilogram
- Cookies - 4 packs
- Olive oil - 1 bottle
- Balsamic vinegar - 1 bottle
- Mayonnaise - 1 jar
- Mustard - 1 jar
- Ketchup - 1 bottle
- Paper napkins - 4 packs
- Paper towels - 4 rolls
- Toilet paper - 12 rolls
- Trash bags - 2 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- Hand soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles

Tips

Plan one table loom, one chair and one complete tool set per participant. Add at least 10% spare yarn and a few extra needles, bobbins and pencils so one missing item does not stop the session.
Prepare warp threads before the workshop and check that every loom has the correct warp slats and prepared warp. Do this at least one day ahead; setting up all looms after participants arrive will delay the introduction.
Sort cotton, wool and linen yarn by table before opening the venue. Put the yarn, weaving needles, bobbins, combs, scissors, measuring tapes, rulers and pencils at each workstation instead of leaving materials in one central box.
Count power points before arranging the tables. Use extension cords and one desk lamp for each dim workstation, and keep cables away from walking routes and the reception table.
Buy or collect mugs, glasses and plates for the full participant count, plus about 10% extra. Keep chilled catering in coolers until serving time and set out coffee and tea only after the workstations are ready.

Frequently asked questions

How much yarn do I need for a weaving workshop?: Start with enough cotton, wool and linen yarn for one complete sample per participant, then add at least 10% spare yarn. The exact amount depends on the chosen technique, sample size and warp density, so confirm the project dimensions with the teacher before shopping.
How many looms are needed for a weaving workshop?: Provide one table loom per participant, plus one spare loom if the venue and budget allow. Check every loom at least 24 hours before the workshop and prepare the warp threads in advance.
What tools does each weaving participant need?: Give each participant fabric scissors, a measuring tape, pencil, ruler, weaving needles, weaving bobbins and a weaving comb. Prepare one complete set per workstation and keep at least two spare sets for shared use.
When should I prepare materials for a weaving workshop?: Check supplies and buy missing materials at least 3 to 7 days before the event. Prepare the looms, sort the yarns and print worksheets or program flyers no later than the day before.

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