Where the time honored methods of the past inspire creativity and innovation in the present.
The Marshfield School of Weaving was founded in 1974 by Norman Kennedy to teach the methods of textile production as practiced by professional handweavers of rural Britain and America in the 18th & 19th centuries.
At the Marshfield School of Weaving students set the pace and direction of their unique learning experience. Small classes of two to five students allow for individual attention in a relaxed and beautiful setting. Here in our restored 200 year old barn, with its large windows looking out on the rolling Vermont landscape, is the largest collection of working barn frame looms in the country. The looms, wheels and related equipment that have been brought together and restored to working order are worthy of a museum. They continue to be used to preserve and perpetuate the same standards of quality that were valued by our forbearers. This distinctive mission of the school has provided students over the years with rare sense of continuity with the past. Our extensive library, dye studio and collection of historic textiles adds to the depth of resources available to both the beginning and advanced student.
Norman Kennedy is widely recognized for his contribution in passing on this important knowledge and he is a vital link in a chain of folk knowledge that was nearly broken. Kate Smith, who began studying with Norman in 1979, carries this tradition forward as she works with the next generation of handweavers, spinners, and dyers. When Kate is not teaching, her passion and commitment to 18th & 19th century textiles continues to inspire ongoing experimentation and research into historical methods that are nearly forgotten.
