Learning to Weave: Online Course or In-Person Workshop?

Weaving as a hobby combines creative expression with traditional craft. Anyone wanting to start as a complete beginner faces a choice: do I learn in person — for example at a local course or workshop — or do I opt for an online offering? Both learning formats have their strengths. In this article we take a closer look at each.

If you are interested in weaving, we recommend taking a look at our site - Berliner Webstühle - as a specialist retailer we offer the largest selection of looms, weaving frames, weaving yarn and accessories.



Table of Contents

How can you learn weaving today?

Weaving can still be learned today as a formal apprenticeship. The trade is called Textile Designer in the Craft — Weaving. More information is available on the German Crafts website: Textile Designer in the Craft

Those who don't have time for a three-year apprenticeship will find many alternative paths. Alongside the two most popular formats — group workshops in person and online courses — there are other options such as self-study with books, 1:1 coaching with experienced weavers, or open studios, weaving circles and associations that provide access to equipment and exchange. For those who want to dive in deep, weaving retreats or intensive weeks (for example in Sweden) are an exciting option.

In the following we focus on the two most popular paths: online courses and in-person weaving courses.

Online Courses

Online courses are ideal for anyone who wants to learn independently of location and time. They usually consist of video lessons, step-by-step guides and supplementary PDFs. A few good providers even offer live video calls. You can work at your own pace, pause at any time and practise directly on your own loom. Many courses also offer Q&A sessions or exchange groups so that you are not learning entirely alone.

In-Person Weaving Courses

In-person courses usually take place in small groups and offer the advantage that an experienced instructor demonstrates techniques directly, corrects errors as needed and answers questions immediately. Courses take place either over 1–3 full days or are spread over several weeks part-time. The atmosphere is often very personal and motivating, and you can try out different looms. For complete beginners in particular, this is a fast way to get a feel for the craft.

woman with kromski weaving frame adult

In-person weaving courses are available across Germany, though mostly in cities

Comparison: Learning Outcomes and Teaching Methods

In terms of learning outcomes, in-person weaving courses often score highly with hands-on guidance and live feedback. The instructor shows beginners every step directly, explains how to use the weaving frame and corrects mistakes immediately. Participants frequently report that support is particularly important when setting up a weaving frame for the first time: knots in the thread or incorrectly wound warps can be fixed on the spot. This personal attention means beginners often learn the basic techniques more quickly. In many beginner courses, everything is prepared in advance: looms are set up and pre-configured so you can concentrate on weaving straight away.

Online courses, on the other hand, are usually structured as video series. They can be didactically well organised and guide learners step by step through materials, tools and techniques. Although learners must rewind or ask the provider when they encounter problems, they learn at their own pace — which many beginners find very pleasant. Interaction with the instructor usually takes place via course forums, chats or phone calls. Online courses can be revisited, and you can look back at them even weeks later, whereas in-person courses offer more intensive, compact instruction. From experience reports it is clear that this relatively new way of learning to weave also works very well.


More and more manufacturers are providing loom assembly instructions as videos.

Comparison: Motivation and Learning Dynamics

Learning motivation depends strongly on the format. In-person weaving courses score through social dynamics: people sit together at the loom, exchange ideas and motivate one another. This strengthens a sense of belonging and encourages active exchange. Some participants even report being introduced to local weaving communities through courses. Direct contact creates connection and motivation. Of course there are disadvantages too — the chemistry with the instructor needs to work, or you might fall ill at short notice despite the best of intentions.

Online courses require more self-organisation, but in return offer extraordinary freedom. Many learners appreciate being able to integrate weaving seamlessly alongside work or family and set their own pace. Motivating elements include varied course formats, clear learning paths and active online communities where you can exchange ideas and ask questions. For motivated self-starters or busy people, online learning is often the ideal combination of flexibility and personal progress. Personal contact is, however, definitely more limited than in in-person weaving courses.

Comparison: Time Commitment and Flexibility

Online courses offer maximum flexibility in terms of time and place: you can participate from anywhere and — provided videos are available — learn completely independently. Zoom webinars enable shared learning without the need to travel. Anyone with a weaving frame at home can try out new things at any time.

In-person workshops, on the other hand, are tied to fixed times. Course dates must be firmly scheduled, and attendance often requires travelling. Unfortunately, weaving courses are also often fully booked months in advance. However, a great deal of knowledge is conveyed in a short time, often in an intensive one-day or weekend course. For people with little flexibility, attendance can be more difficult, but the compact learning block is often well worth it.

Comparison: Costs

In-person weaving courses are often higher priced, as rooms, materials and individual attention incur costs. Many workshops are in the three-figure range per session, though there are also significantly more expensive courses. Travel or accommodation costs may be added, as most courses are offered in the major cities of Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne. Current rigid heddle beginner courses over 2–3 days cost around €250 in course fees, plus a potential hire fee for a loom and/or materials.

Online courses are usually considerably cheaper — well-prepared courses by professional weavers cost around €40 to €70. There are also numerous free videos on YouTube that teach solid fundamentals. However, you must purchase your own materials for online courses, which creates additional costs.

Comparison: Access to Materials and Practical Relevance

In in-person courses, materials are usually prepared and looms or weaving frames of all kinds are available. This greatly eases the start: you can experience weaving hands-on without having to worry about equipment beforehand.

Online courses presuppose that you already own a weaving frame or loom. Beginners therefore need to invest in equipment first. Small beginner weaving frames are affordable, but larger looms can quickly cost several hundred euros. Yarn and accessories must also be sourced yourself. Some providers offer ready-made beginner sets at advantageous prices.

Comparison: Community and Exchange

In-person weaving courses bring people together automatically. You meet like-minded people, exchange ideas and receive spontaneous tips. Instructors often point participants towards local groups or follow-on offerings, creating a long-term community.

Online learning also offers opportunities for exchange — via Zoom, forums or group chats. Many providers try to build digital communities. Nevertheless, the intensive personal contact that motivates some learners is missing.

Providers and Course Examples

In Germany there are numerous providers of weaving courses. However, it must be noted that in recent years interest in weaving has increased significantly and many courses are booked up well in advance.

Examples of course providers include hand-weaving studios, workshops, specialist ateliers and adult education centre courses. The range extends from intensive one-day workshops to weekend courses and long-term programmes. Alongside these there are many online formats with video modules, live sessions and forums. International platforms offer additional courses with a wide choice of topics. Google will turn up many good results.

At this point we would also like to recommend our own in-person weaving courses. You can find an overview here: Weaving Courses by Berliner Webstühle


Conclusion – Which Format Suits Whom?

Both learning formats have clear advantages, depending on your personal learning style. Those who value direct guidance, personal feedback and a lively learning environment are best served by in-person workshops. The prerequisite is a suitable course nearby and somewhat higher costs.

Online courses are ideal for anyone who wants to stay flexible, has little time, wants to learn at their own pace or cannot find a course nearby. The prerequisites are your own equipment and self-organisation.

Online courses In-person weaving courses
Learn any time & anywhere at your own pace Fixed dates, intensive learning blocks on-site
Videos, PDFs, live calls depending on provider Direct feedback and personal guidance
Ideal for working professionals & self-starters Ideal for beginners who want proximity & guidance
Cheaper (approx. €40–70 per course) Higher costs due to rooms & instruction (often €150–300)
Own equipment needed (weaving frame/loom) Materials & equipment often provided
Virtual communities, chats, forums Direct exchange, immediate questions & tips
Very flexible, but requires a little more self-motivation High motivation from group atmosphere

Ultimately both paths lead to the goal: whether in a workshop or online — learning to weave opens up a rich, creative world and imparts valuable craft skills.

If you are interested in weaving, we recommend taking a look at our site - Berliner Webstühle - as a specialist retailer we offer the largest selection of looms, weaving frames, weaving yarn and accessories.

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