Introduction to Table Braiding with Hair - ROUND BRAIDS (Laramie, WY)

Friday, June 26, 2026
10:00 AM 4:00 PM

University Store 13th & University Laramie, WY 82071 (map)

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Introduction to Table Braiding with Hair: Historic ROUND-TWIST CHAINS Workshop

This immersive, hands-on workshop introduces the nearly forgotten art of table-braided hairwork through a historic twisted chain pattern. Popular throughout Europe and carried into the American West during the nineteenth century, this weighted braiding technique transforms loose strands into strong, dimensional braids once used for watch chains, bracelets, and keepsake jewelry.

Working on custom-built braiding tables, Zen will guide you step by step through bundle preparation, foundation knots, and managing weighted bobbins as you learn the sequence logic of a classic twisted chain. You will gain an understanding of rhythm, tension, and rotation as you create a beautifully structured braid rooted in historic practice.

By the end of class, you will leave with a finished braid sample and a solid foundation in this enduring technique.

Both the flat braid class (on Wednesday) and this twisted-chain workshop are designed for beginners. Each session features a different historic braid pattern. Participants may attend one or both with no prior experience required.

When: Friday, June 26, 2026, 10 AM-4 PM

Where: University Store
13th & University
Laramie, WY 82071

Tickets: FREE (sponsored by Laramie Plains Museum at the Historic Ivinson Mansion), class size limited to 10 participants.

Prerequisites: Age 16+, all skill levels welcome

Materials: All tools and ethically donated, pre-washed hair provided. Students will have the opportunity to purchase braiding tables, weights, and other specialized hairwork tools at a discounted rate following the workshop.