Montana Association of Weavers and Spinners

Billings Weavers Guild

History of the Billings Weavers Guild
Several Billings weavers held a workshop in the spring of 1945.

A group of weavers held an interest meeting January 7th, 1949, at the home of Mrs. Stroup.

On February 5, 1949, the group met with Mrs. Elwood Kusche. They named the guild, elected officers, and limited the membership to 12 people. Each member donated $1.00 and they did not meet in July or August. They exhibited at the Billings Fair and joined the Shuttle Craft Guild started by Mary Atwater.

Six of the charter members were in the photo taken by Lynn McComas in March 1959 at Mrs. Stroup’s house. Em Kolstad (1950) and Laverne McComas (1958) are the only two still living of the 15 members pictured.

Amy Dehnert prepared a list of the members’ joining years in May 1966. Some joined to attend a workshop. Checking the minutes gave some dates.

Interest in weaving has changed through the years as has the membership list. The guild has met in weavers’ homes, at the library, and in several public places.

The weavers have held workshops, study groups, round robin exchanges with other guilds, exhibits, show and tell and fair exhibits.

Some members are spinners, dyers, and weavers. Some make yardage, sew and wear handwoven garments. Some weave items for home, gifts, or to sell.

Em Kolstad, Joyce Fletcher and JoAnne Setzer have given lessons. Many demonstrations and exhibits have happened.

The use of computers, e-mail, and complex looms have changed weaving, as have better printed materials and pictures. Weaving is a creative experience and sharing of ideas.
Laverne McComas
March 2006

Billings Weavers Guild officers:
Barb Wood President 406-861-1813
Nancy Anderson Vice-President 406-655-0935
Lillian Nehring Treasurer 406-896-1153
Debbie Johnson Secretary 406-208-8010

Our meeting place Yellowstone Art Museum, Visible Vault, 505 North 26^th Street, Billings, MT

Meeting Dates:
Sept 10^th 2011
Oct 1^st 2011
Nov 5^th 2011
Dec 10^th 2011
Jan 7^th 2012
Feb 11^th 2012
March 3^rd 2012
April 7^th 2012
May 5^th 2012

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