Do you know the Alsatian kelsch? I present you today the last workshop still making kelsch in Alsace: theAtelier de tissage Kelsch, located in Sentheim in the Hautes-Vosges of Alsace (south of the region).
As a reminder, kelsch is a fabric made of woven linen and/or cotton threads. The threads are traditionally colored in white, blue and red and form patterns of checks or stripes. TheKelsch Weaving Workshop, run by Marlene and Gerard Abraham, is located on the first floor of their home. They welcome visitors by appointment to show them theart of making kelsch. We are immersed in the atmosphere immediately upon entering the house: large rolls of fabric, threads, decorative objects made of kelsch and impressive wooden looms, the place is incredible and seems to belong to another era.
The weaving of kelsch is a real work of patience. Imagine that it already takes 3 or 4 days to properly arrange the threads on the loom. Then, it will take 3 hours of work for 1m of fabric. Marlene shows us how she operates the loom and answers all our questions. Children are not forgotten: her husband has even made them a mini loom on which they can practice safely!
TheKelsch Weaving Workshop works mainly on order, but it is also possible to buy some small kelsch objects. In addition to the visit of the workshop, it is possible to learn weaving during courses, which take place regularly.
I liked
- Discover how this traditional Alsatian fabric is made
- Craft workshop
- Authentic place
- Nice visit also for children
I liked less
- You really have to ask questions, few explanations otherwise
My photos of the Kelsch Weaving Workshop
Practical information
Rates and schedules
The visit is free. You must make an appointment to visit the Kelsch Weaving Workshop. You can find all the contact information here.
Animations
Introductory courses in kelsch weaving are organized regularly.
Access
By car
The address is: 39 Grand Rue 68780 Sentheim. You have to count:
- 25 km from Mulhouse (about 25 minutes)
- 52 km from Colmar (about 40 minutes)
- 136 km from Strasbourg (about 1h20)
By public transport
This is not possible 🙁
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