Time Travel Through Textiles

Join knowledgeable Renfrew docent Kathy Skidmore for a fast-paced, “drone’s eye” journey through the history of textiles—from the Stone Age to the modern world—in this engaging and interactive presentation! Time Travel Through Textiles explores the origins of fiber in the Neolithic era and follows its evolution through spinning, weaving, and the transformative impact of the Industrial Revolution.

This time-traveling presentation traces the story of fiber from its earliest development in the Neolithic era, when humans first began transforming raw plant and animal materials into usable thread, all the way through the sweeping changes of the Industrial Revolution and into the textile world we know today. A key focus of the presentation is the profound relationship between textiles and the Industrial Revolution. Long before factories, producing cloth was an incredibly time-intensive process, often done entirely by hand. The demand for faster production didn’t just benefit from industrialization, it actively drove it. This session highlights how textile production influenced technological innovation and how those innovations reshaped the craft itself.

Along the journey, you’ll explore how different fibers were discovered, processed, and refined over time, and how these innovations shaped daily life across cultures. The program breaks down the essential processes behind textile creation, including how spinning works (both with simple hand spindles and more advanced spinning wheels) and the foundational principles of weaving. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of how threads become fabric, and just how much skill, time, and labor that transformation once required. Examples of coverlets, cloth, rugs, and other textiles from the Renfrew collection will be on display!

Throughout the program, there will be live demonstrations using hand spindles and small looms, offering a closer look at traditional techniques in action. Audience participation is warmly encouraged! You may even find yourself trying a technique or two! Sprinkled throughout the program will be textile trivia and fascinating details that reveal just how deeply textiles are woven into human history. Additional books and research titles will be available for those who want to explore the topic further after the session.

Whether you’re completely new to fiber arts or already have an interest in textiles, this whirlwind presentation is designed to spark curiosity and leave you with a new appreciation for something we often take for granted. Textiles aren’t just fabric—they’re a story of human ingenuity, culture, and transformation!

PROGRAM NOTES: Presentation will take place in the Wagon Shed Room of Renfrew’s Visitors Center, located in the white bank barn. The Visitors Center is fully handicapped accessible. Limited seating for up to thirty (30) guests is available. Doors open thirty (30) minutes prior to event. Check-in at the Visitors Center Reception Desk. Entrance is located on the eastern side of the barn, directly across from the flagpole. Pre-registration is required to attend. No walk-ins, please.

Seating will be on metal folding chairs, so please ensure your own comfort and bring along a cushion if you wish.

Free parking is available at the Visitors Center lot located off of PA-16/East Main Street/Buchanan Trail East. Overflow parking is in Renfrew’s Lower Lot off of Welty Road.  Guests should expect low lighting and slightly uneven terrain over grass and gravel as they make their way to the Visitors Center. Restrooms are located at the northeastern corner of the Visitors Center with entrances accessed from the exterior.