Community Outreach

We love to get out in the community to share our knowledge and love of weaving, spinning and other fiber arts.

Classroom Demonstrations
Our members provide overviews and in-depth explanations on weaving, spinning, braiding, and related fiber arts techniques.  We have given talks to such varied school groups as kindergartners, fifth graders for “Colonial Days” workshops, and college-level students.  Demonstrations are tailored to the age and experience of the participants, the historical context of the event, and level of technical detail needed.

Scout troops, 4H groups, and other youth service organizations can also benefit from our presentations, especially as an adjunct to animal husbandry (think wool from sheep), home economics, or textile art (sewing, knitting) projects.

To request a demonstration, contact: outreach@sdcwg.org

Community Events

Guild members participate in a number of local festivals, historical presentations, and other special events. Here are a few places you might find us:

  • San Diego County Fair:  Each year the Guild hosts a booth during the final week of the fair, providing demonstrations in weaving, spinning, braiding and a variety of other fiber crafts (http://www.sdfair.com/)
  • Vista Fiber Arts Fiesta   Held annually the first weekend in May on the grounds of the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM) in Vista, CA  (https://www.agsem.com/​)
  • Threads of the Past Spinning Demonstration: Guild members Susan Hector and Michael Sampson are long-time living history volunteers in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. They demonstrate 19th century spinning and weaving at Threads of the Past, located in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, on San Diego Avenue next to the Plaza. Between 10 am  and 3pm on each of the following dates in 2025: January 4 & 25, February 1 & 22, March 1 & 22, April 12 & 26, May 3 & 24, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 2 & 23, September 6 & 27, October 4 & 18, November 1 & 22, December 6 & 27
  • Traditional Scottish Spinning: The House of Scotland in Balboa Park will feature spinning demonstrations by Guild members Susan Hector and Michael Sampson on the following dates in 2025: February 9, April 5 (Tartan Day), June 22, October 25 (Lawn Program), December 14
  • Back to Back Wool Challenge: Guild members pool their talents to compete in the International Back to Back Wool Challenge held each year. The team shears a sheep, spins the wool, and weaves a garment in as little time as they can. The 2024 event was held at the Bonita Museum on April 27. Learn more about the International Back to Back Challenge on Facebook.