Work by members of Weaving Newtown is on display in the Newtown Municipal Center showcase through the end of June.

Included in the exhibit are pieces by Leslie Huston; Hao Chang; Bev Skiles; Jen Rogers, Weaving Newtown coordinator; and master weaver Hanna Roehrs, who leads and teaches the group.

The municipal center is open weekdays from 8 am until 5 pm, and later on days when meetings of town boards and commissions are scheduled. The showcase is near the council chambers in the building at 3 Primrose Street. Exhibitions in the showcase are organized by Newtown Cultural Arts Commission.

A weaving workshop began at Newtown Cultural Arts Commission’s original HealingNewtown Arts Space in early 2013.

The program was the brainchild of longtime weaver Roehrs of Sandy Hook. Her idea was to teach a creative activity that takes a good amount of calm focus, leaving other thoughts behind, in a mutually supportive environment. Donations of looms, tools, and yarn arrived from all over the Northeast from individuals and weaving guilds.

Now located at Newtown Congregational Church, Weaving Newtown has grown, with floor looms and even table looms, all necessary tools, yarns, and even a reference library all available for students and instructors.

Workshops Resume

Emerging from pandemic restrictions, Weaving Newtown has begun its workshops again. The group meets weekly at the church, 14 West Street. Workshops are conducted from 6 to 9 pm in one of the building’s classrooms.

“The Congregational Church has been so supportive,” Rogers noted. “We would not be able to continue without their support.”

All levels of weavers are welcome at the workshops. Beginning weavers will be guided through each step in the process. Weaving Newtown provides the loom, yarn, tools, and instruction.

Cost is $60 for a four-week series. For those who decide to continue, a 12-week series is $150.

Space is limited, so reservations are required. Contact organizers at weavingnewtown@gmail.com for details and/or registration.