The answer is of course, weave with it, because old looms are pretty sturdy things.
However, this isn’t just any old loom. It’s is the original Macrogauze loom engineered by one of the 20th Century’s seminal weavers, Peter Collingwood OBE 1922 -2008.
Macrogauze Artworks by Peter Collingwood OBE
A selection of the fruits of this loom, are pictured below; the unmistakable Macrogauze hangings. These were exhibited in the 2025 show at Margaret Howells London Store. A rare opportunity to view the work close up. Did you catch it?
The official Peter Collingwood archive is held at Crafts Study Centre, University for the Creative Arts in Farnham.
However, the contents of Collingwoods workshop and his collection of over 1000 books on weaving, plus a few other treasures are in my Bristol weaving studio.
I’ve had them for a few years now, although I knew I wasn’t really ready for the expansion when it first happened. It feels, at last, like I’m finally adjusting to the acquisition.
A Weaving Resource Centre in Bristol
I intend to share these specialist resources with those who might be interested, including and beyond my existing network. A long-term slow project.
This blog post is one way to spread the word and to discover if there is an appetite for a ‘weaving study centre’ in the heart of Bristol…
I want to build up a picture of who might want to know where the looms and books are for starters. ( I didn’t use the opportunity to connect with others during the Margaret Howell show but hopefully I can make up for that now).
One aim is to see looms (and books) being used to innovate and educate, and not simply replicate what has already being produced. (Although tempting, I have been reminded frequently that imitations would go against the Collingwood ethos).
Conservation, Restoration and Innovation
Coincidentally and serendipitously, an old theatre friend (who conveniently retrained as a book conservator) visited my studio recently. We had an an enlightening conversation about just how far I could or should go in preserving the Collingwood looms and library.
He offered recommendations for preserving the newspaper clippings and notes on the loom. (pictured). The things that give it extra character. However I don’t believe the previous owner would be into this level of preservation. A photo record will suffice for now should any damage occur. (I’m interested in your thoughts about this too).
His suggestions for the long term care of the books is for another blog post.
Please get in touch if you’d like me to keep you in the loop regarding the future of these special old looms and if you’d like to be part of the conversation. ( I’ve not mentioned the other looms yet…)
Photo: Alice Jane Hendy Photography
Angie Parker is a weaver, designer, colourist, instructor and unintentional archivist.
She trained in rug weaving and has been weaving krokbragd since the early the 1990s, but only started her textile practice in 2014 following a career in theatre costume. She hand-weaves rugs and wall-hanging in her Bristol studio. Occasionally her designs are produced in small batches through partnerships. Angie teaches when her sched ule allows. You will currently find her buried underneath 2 tonnes of rug wool. Sign up to her newsletter here, for updates once she emerges.