Ontario Handweavers and Spinners

The Ontario Handweavers and Spinners (OHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the art and skills of fiber crafts, including weaving, spinning, dyeing, basket making, braiding, tablet weaving, and paper making. The organization was established in 1956 following a meeting of Ontario weaving guilds in 1955, where there was a growing interest in reviving traditional craft skills[1].

History

The foundation of the OHS was catalyzed by a gathering of 135 members from various Ontario weaving guilds at the Heliconian Club in April 1955. This meeting featured a talk by noted New York weaver Berta Frey, who demonstrated a multicolored warp setup. An advisory committee was formed to explore the creation of a provincial organization, leading to the establishment of the OHS the following year[1].

In 1986, the organization co-hosted Convergence '86, a biennial meeting of the Handweavers Guild of America, with the Ontario Crafts Council, attracting about 2,000 attendees. By 1998, the OHS had expanded to include over 1,000 members across more than 70 guilds within six autonomous regions in Ontario[1].

Activities and Programs

The OHS provides a variety of educational programs focused on spinning and weaving, along with access to workshops, conferences, and seminars throughout the year. These include both in-person and virtual events. Members benefit from an annual subscription to the quarterly magazine Fibre Focus, discounted registrations for events, eligibility for scholarships and awards, and access to a lending library[2].

Affiliations and Recognition

The OHS is affiliated with the Ontario Crafts Council and has played a significant role in promoting fiber arts across Ontario. Many prominent figures in the fiber arts have been associated with the OHS, either by participating in its educational programs or contributing to its community[1][4].

Contribution to Community

Over the years, the OHS has supported the development of traditional craft skills while fostering a community of enthusiasts. The organization continues to play a vital role in preserving and promoting the heritage of spinning and weaving in Canada[2].