"WARP is the most interesting group of people I’ve ever met... WARP feeds my soul and my intellect."

--Deborah Chandler (teacher, author of Learning to Weave, Artisan Coordinator, Mayan Hands, Guatemala City)

WARP's Core Values

• Textiles are an important component of the human experience.
• Providing support to textile artisans from communities-in-need gives them tools to shape their own destinies.
• Networking and sharing information creates an environment for constructive action.
• Making connections between textile artisans worldwide promotes positive social change.
• Interacting with people who have similar values enriches our lives.

WARP’s History

WARP began in 1992 when Deborah Chandler contacted friends in the United States who were working with, or interested in working with, weavers and dyers in developing countries to see if they would like to get together to share resources, provide support for one another, and exchange stories and experiences. There was so much interest in this idea at the initial meeting at Convergence 1992 (biennial national weaving conference) that the idea grew and a new organization was born, starting with a gathering later that same year in Colorado. WARP has stayed true to the original intent of providing networking and support. In addition to linking members working in developing countries, WARP enables those who cannot work abroad to become involved in supporting textile artisans worldwide.

WARP’s Membership

WARP's diverse membership of approximately 300 individuals and organizations is connected to more than 40 countries worldwide. Members enjoy these program benefits:

• The quarterly newsletter contains a wealth of information on supporting fiber artisans in the developing world, traditional textile techniques, travel and tours, and inspiring first-hand stories. Many of the articles highlight WARP members and their experiences with groups and projects around the world. Click here for information on the newsletter.
• Our members-only on-line discussion forum is for exchanging information, exploring common interests, and getting announcements to members quickly.
• The annual meeting rotates throughout the United States to appealing locations. Locations have included Ghost Ranch in New Mexico and the Sea Islands of South Carolina. During this inspiring weekend gathering, members share their global experiences and learn from each other. Click here for information on the annual meeting
• The membership directory is a printed book featuring contact information for all members and descriptions of their interests and activities.
• The traveling slide show is available for presentations to fiber guilds, faith groups, and other community organizations. The images document the work of WARP’s membership. Click here for information of the slide show.

WARP welcomes all who share an appreciation for our mission and activities. Become part of a network dedicated to improving lives worldwide through textile arts. Click here for information on becoming a member.

"WARP brings together people capable of working with their hearts, hands, and heads ... They understand the incremental power of the small. And from that understanding comes change and joy."

--Deborah Robson (writer, Colorado)

Photo captions, top to bottom:
Rosario, Guatemalan weaver. Photo: Mary Kelly
Tending silk worms, Ban Khao, NE Thailand. Photo: Geri Forkner
Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia. Photo: Martin Paule
Rug Weaver, Cappodocia, Turkey. Photo: Rose Gerstner
Extracting silk from cocoons, Ban Khwao, Thailand. Photo: Geri Forkner