KAWS 2023 Schedule

“CONNECT, LEARN, CREATE” is the theme for the 2023 KAWS conference, June 9-11, hosted by the Kaw Valley Fiber Guild. We will be at the First Presbyterian Church, 2415 Clinton Parkway in Lawrence, KS on Friday and Saturday and a Statewide Dye Day on Sunday.

Friday night: 5:00pm to 9:00pm “Connect” with other fiber enthusiasts from around the state with different activities and refreshments. Members of the Kaw Valley Fiber Guild will be demonstrating different fiber techniques. Triangle Loom, Kumihimo, sock knitting machine, drop spindle drum carder, crochet foundations, peg looms, cutting rug strips/t-shirt yarn and twinning. Susan Hoisington, our keynote speaker, will have her artwork on display.

Saturday: “LEARN and CREATE” with classes focusing on fiber skills and techniques. Classes will be held between 8:30 - 5:30. There are many classes to choose from. Take one to three classes.

Our conference speaker is Susan Hoisington. Susan has been a hand- weaver for over 30 years. The title of her talk is: “Lessons From My Loom.”

• There will be a table set up for Handwoven Magazine sales donated by Pat Bruce, a Kaw Valley Fiber Guild member who passed away earlier this year. Proceeds go to the spinning award

• There will also be a display board where attendees can post looms, wheels, and other fiber equipment for sale. Please bring a picture and information of the item you would like to sale.

Individuals are encouraged to enter two competitions this year.

The Pete Soeken Hand Weaving Excellence Award

This award is given in honor of Pete Soeken, one of the founders of KAWS. Enter a handwoven piece. The winner will be chosen by those attending.

The Kaw Valley Fiber Guild Spinning Award

This award will be given for a hand-spun piece. The winner will be chosen by those attending.

Sunday: “CREATE” at the All State Dye Party. This will be held at Art Love Studios.

Vendors will be available Friday evening and Saturday.