Our Story
A passionate community keeping traditional textile arts alive in the Illawarra
Who we are
Wollongong Spinners & Weavers began in 1961 when eight fibre-loving locals gathered in a Mangerton lounge room. We've been making, learning, and laughing together ever since—celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2021.
Formed in 1961, the Wollongong Spinners and Weavers is a welcoming, friendly group dedicated to hand weaving, spinning, dyeing and associated crafts. We began as a small weaving group meeting in members' homes, later hiring spaces in halls and community centres as the group grew.
From the start, teaching and learning were central: experienced tutors and long-time members delivered weaving workshops and supported those new to the loom. As numbers increased, so did our skills—spinning and hand dyeing joined our repertoire, and members produced a wide variety of handcrafted items.
In 1974, with assistance from the Wollongong University College Union, members held the first exhibition. Today, annual exhibitions are held each May at the Fairy Meadow Community Centre.
We meet every Monday during school term, 10am–2pm, at Mt Ousley Public School, Fairy Meadow, where our space lets us store equipment and library resources. Our members range from veteran spinners and weavers with 30+ years' experience to those just beginning their weaving or spinning journeys.
We encourage creativity and innovation, focus on sharing new skills and ideas, and are invited from time to time to give spinning and weaving demonstrations at craft and agricultural shows.
What we do
Spinning
Wheel spinning, spindle work, and fibre preparation
Weaving
Loom weaving, tapestry, and textile creation
Plus our members bring skills in...
Additional crafts that enrich our community
Knitting
Felting
Dyeing
Crochet
Sewing
What skills will you bring?
Our weekly sessions centre on spinning and weaving, but we're a talented bunch! Whatever your fibre passion, there's always someone happy to share a tip, a tool, or a cuppa.
When we meet
9:30am–2:00pm during school term at Mount Ousley Public School, Fairy Meadow. These are hands-on days—bring a project and settle in.
10:00am monthly at the same venue. More formal catch-up for planning events, guild business, and show & tell.
⚠️ We don't meet on public holidays or during school holidays
New & prospective members
Visitors are warmly welcome. Come along to a Monday session to see what we're about—it's a great way to socialise, learn new skills, and share knowledge.
Get involved
Bring your wheel or needles, try a loom, ask questions, or just watch a demo. We run exhibitions, take part in local events, and share opportunities year-round.
What We Stand For
Community
We believe in the power of coming together to learn, create, and support each other. Our group is a welcoming space for all skill levels and backgrounds.
Creativity
While we honour traditional techniques, we encourage experimentation and innovation. Every piece tells a unique story through color, texture, and design.
Knowledge Sharing
Our experienced members generously share their expertise through workshops, demonstrations, and informal mentoring. Learning is a lifelong journey we take together.
Excellence
We strive for quality in our craft while celebrating the beauty of handmade imperfections. Each piece reflects the care and skill of its maker.
Membership Benefits
Regular Meetings
We gather twice monthly for hands-on sessions where members work on projects, share techniques, and enjoy the company of fellow fibre enthusiasts. Bring your current project or start something new with guidance from experienced members.
Workshops & Classes
Throughout the year, we offer workshops covering everything from beginner spinning to advanced weaving techniques. We also invite guest artists to share specialised skills like natural dyeing, tapestry weaving, and fibre preparation.
Exhibitions & Shows
We showcase our members' work through annual exhibitions and participate in regional craft fairs. These events celebrate our collective creativity and help connect with the broader community.
Library & Resources
Members have access to our extensive library of books, patterns, and equipment. We also maintain a collection of looms and spinning wheels available for member use.
Join Our Creative Community
Whether you're an experienced textile artist or have never touched a spinning wheel, you're welcome here. Come visit us at our next meeting!