Hard Work Weaving

Today we did some simple weaving on burlap using embroidery hoops. It was a challenge to everyone who tried it to keep up the pattern of moving our needles up and then down without circling the hoop. It was very tempting to weave in only one direction (either through the bottom or through the top every time), compromising the work and forcing us to undo it or cut the yarn at the edges to allow us to remove the hoop. Every now and then, we could hear someone thinking out loud in order to keep the pattern. It was an excellent activity for building perseverance, concentration, fine motor and oral language skills, awareness of step-by-step instructions, pattern recognition, a sense of artistic accomplishment, and working side-by-side with others...

It was easy to set up. We used some burlap purchased in the Fall at Canadian Tire (about $10 for a large roll), embroidery hoops found in the supply room, some extra large plastic canvas needles, and some yarn (thank you, parents, for your donations!)...