Choose exam board for KS4 Computer Science (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 English
Choose exam board for KS4 French
Choose exam board for KS4 Geography
Choose exam board for KS4 German
Choose exam board for KS4 History
Choose tier for KS4 Maths
Choose exam board for KS4 Music
Choose exam board for KS4 Physical education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Religious education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Spanish

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can design a pattern to weave with paper.

      Key learning points

      1. Weaving has been used throughout the centuries, using various techniques, for both functional and artistic purposes.
      2. You can create patterns and simple designs, like stripes and checks, when weaving.
      3. You can apply understanding of colour theory in weaving.
      4. Artists can take inspiration from cultural or natural motifs and apply these in their work.

      Keywords

      • Weave/weaving - joining threads by passing them over and under each other

      • Warp & weft - warp threads go up and down; weft threads go across

      • Loom - a frame that holds threads tight so you can weave them into patterns or fabric.

      Common misconception

      Weaving is simply a way of creating fabric for clothing and has no connection to colour or culture.

      Weaving goes beyond just making fabric; it’s a powerful form of art that can reflect cultural heritage.

      Teacher tip

      When preparing a cardboard frame for the basic ‘over-under’ weaving pattern, demonstrate the importance of leaving a small section uncut at the bottom of the frame. This "anchor" helps keep the warp threads stable, making it easier for pupils to weave without the threads slipping out of place

      Equipment

      Card, paper strips, tape, glue, scissors, pencils, squared paper

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

      Loading...

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is weaving?

      Drawing lines that look like thread
      Stitching layers of fabric together
      Correct answer: Interlacing threads at right angles to create fabric
      Tying knots to make decorative patterns

      Q2.
      What is a loom used for in weaving?

      Correct answer: To hold thread in place while weaving
      To cut fabric into strips
      To dye yarn different colours
      To sew woven fabric into clothes

      Q3.
      A pattern is a decorative design with elements such as colours or shapes that ...

      Correct Answer: repeat

      Q4.
      Weaving is joining threads by passing them over and each other.

      Correct Answer: under, beneath

      Q5.
      What role does a loom play in weaving?

      Correct answer: It holds the threads tightly so you can weave them
      It adds colour to the threads using natural dyes
      It helps to spin wool into threads

      Q6.
      Which of the following is not a functional example of weaving?

      A blanket made from wool
      A basket with a handle
      A bag for carrying shopping
      Correct answer: An expressive wall hanging

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What are the two main types of threads used in weaving?

      Correct answer: Warp and weft
      Fabric and yarn
      Strands and fibers

      Q2.
      A loom is a frame that holds threads tight so you can __________ them into patterns or fabric.

      Correct Answer: weave

      Q3.
      Match the following weaving techniques to their descriptions:

      Correct Answer:Twill,Weave in a diagonal to form a diagonal design

      Weave in a diagonal to form a diagonal design

      Correct Answer:Circular,Weave in a spiral over and under

      Weave in a spiral over and under

      Correct Answer:Plain,Over and under to create a simple grid pattern

      Over and under to create a simple grid pattern

      Q4.
      Why do artists design their weaving on paper before actually using threads to weave?

      To make it look neat
      Correct answer: To test out ideas and explore structure
      To choose the right materials

      Q5.
      Weaving can be both functional and , allowing for creative expression through patterns.

      Correct Answer: artistic, decorative, creative

      Q6.
      Which of the following statements are true about weaving techniques?

      All weaving designs must be perfectly neat and symmetrical.
      Correct answer: Mistakes can add character and meaning.
      Correct answer: Artists can use weaving to express ideas using colour, texture and pattern.
      Weaving can only be used for making clothing.

      To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring weaving, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...