Nancy Escherich
Weaving is in my bones. My great grandmother and grandmother were weavers. I have been inspired by the beautiful and intricate weaving traditions throughout the Southwest and Latin America. I love playing with color, stirring the dye pot to see the new color emerge, and using my fingers to lay color with the threads, creating cloth from my hands. I also love to share this ancient craft with others.

While studying Art at the University of Montana, I learned how to use a Navajo loom and started designing small rugs. After graduating, I joined the Peace Corps and went to Jamaica for 4 years working with a women’s weaving cooporative. I traveled to Peru and Ecuador, dazzled by the intricate and beautiful weaving traditions and people. Returning to the states I continued teaching weaving at Joseph’s Coat, Missoula’s local yarn store and at Big Bear Resources. I began designing and creating my own pieces, inspired by the patterns of Navajo and Peruvian textiles. I have returned to travel in South America for inspiration, from the land and its people. I recently lived in Northern Argentina with my family for a year and a half and was inspired by the colorful landscape and the images on the pre-Columbian pottery. View artwork

Carol Wilbur
I learned to weave at the Green Tree Ranch in Loveland, Colorado in the early 70’s, and from that day on, I was hooked!  Our classes were held in a red, hay-filled barn with a huge barrel heater.  Our instructor often bottle-fed a newly born lamb while she gave instructions. This ranch eventually became the headquarters for Interweave Press.

When I moved to Missoula, Montana I continued to learn more about the craft of weaving through workshops and courses led by exceptional mentors and teachers.  I am currently a member of the Missoula Weaver’s Guild, The Big Sky Fibers Arts Guild, and the Montana Association of Weavers and Spinners.  These organizations provide a constant source of support and inspiration.  I am also a member of the Hand Weavers Guild of America and Common Threads, a non-profit cooperative in Silver City, New Mexico dedicated to helping women in rural communities establish a sustainable lifestyle through fiber arts.

I have taught weaving at the University of Montana and Joseph’s Coat, our local yarn shop, and I have participated in demonstrations sponsored by the Missoula Weaver’s Guild.

Weaving for me is a means of expression.  I enjoy the visual and tactile aspects of creating cloth that reflects a mood or makes a statement.  I also enjoy playing with patterns, and I try to make each piece unique and compelling. View artwork