When Sara Bixler talks about weaving, you’re not just hearing from an instructor – you’re connecting with a living thread of textile history. After her sold-out rib weave class at BARN last January, we’re thrilled to welcome her back to share her expertise in Scandinavian rep weave.
Bixler’s journey in fiber arts is both personal and profound. Though she initially pursued ceramics and sculpture in college, weaving was always part of her DNA. As the daughter of renowned weaver Tom Knisley, she quite literally grew up in the world of textiles. “It’s like if your mom was a professional baker,” she reflects. “It was always there.”
Today, Bixler carries forward this legacy as the head of Red Stone Glen Fiber Art Center, a premier weaving school that feels more like a creative retreat. With 60 multi-harness looms and on-site accommodations, it offers an immersive experience that she describes as “like going to camp.” But her influence extends far beyond Pennsylvania – she leads cultural textile tours in Japan and Europe, serves as vice president of the American Coverlet Museum, and shares her expertise at conferences nationwide.
What makes Bixler such a compelling teacher is her appreciation for both tradition and innovation. She notes that while many cultures “stay in their lane” with specific weaving styles, American weavers create a “fruit salad” of techniques. Her classes honor both approaches, beginning with each technique’s historical and cultural context before diving into hands-on practice.
Throughout human history, weaving has been fundamental to civilization itself. Before the Industrial Revolution transformed textile production in the late 18th century, every thread of fabric used by humans – from simple clothing to elaborate tapestries, from grain sacks to ship sails – was woven by hand on looms that weren’t dramatically different from those still used by artisans today. For thousands of years, in every culture across the globe, weavers created the fabrics essential for survival, trade, and artistic expression.
In her upcoming rep weave workshop at BARN, participants will explore “reps mata,” a dense, graphic weaving style traditionally used for rugs in Scandinavia. Students will receive pre-wound warps and can choose from six patterns ranging from simple to complex. “When it comes off the loom,” Bixler promises, “you’ve got this very substantial piece you can be proud of.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a master weaver who bridges past and present, tradition, and innovation. Register now for Sara Bixler’s Rep Weave Table Runner class, starting Feb. 24.
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