Central PA’s 
Best-Kept Secret

Weft is located in a snug studio space accessed via an alley that parallels Main Street, in Mechanicsburg, PA. 

Our studio is an experience unto itself: bathed in light, insulated in sheep’s wool, and heated by an Irish woodstove. Skylights are above you, a cork floor below, and hundreds of different fibers and threads are within your grasp.

When you visit Weft, you will have your own SAORI loom to work with, set up by us so you can start having fun quickly. We’ll give you a quick lesson and we’ll remain available to assist throughout your experience.

Learn one-on-one or join a group of friends. And once you’re hooked, stop by to continue weaving over time. Our unique looms enable us to remove your project and save it for you between visits.

Sign up for a session today. We have parking on site—and several eateries are within walking distance, including the delicious Hellenic Kouzina Greek CaféDad’s CaféSnapper’s, and (farther afield) Kanagawa SushiChef de CrêpeSmoke and Pickles, and Dalicia Bakery and Coffee Shop.

About 
Wabi-Sabi

At Weft, we believe in a freestyle weaving philosophy that we call Wabi-Sabi Weaving™. This liberating approach to weaving embraces the Japanese aesthetic where beauty comes from imperfection. In Wabi-Sabi weaving, “mistakes” add to the beauty of the creation! You are encouraged to play and to celebrate the story each piece produces as you respond to the medium.

We’re told that this approach feels liberating and is even meditative. But it is also a lot of fun—whether you experience it solo or with a group of friends.

Meet Your Instructor

Nelly

Nelly Smith is the owner of Weft. She has a degree in fine art from Mary Baldwin College and has had her work shown in Art of the State and numerous galleries. Introduced to weaving by the late Tara Kiley-Rothwell, Nelly created Weft as a way to continue Tara’s legacy. Nelly has a masters of social work (MSW) and views weaving as a way for people to find connection, solace, purpose, and inspiration in their lives.

Tara Kiley-Rothwell

Tara Kiley-Rothwell (1962-2021) was an inspiration to many weavers, through her work as an weaving instructor and as a member of the Lancaster Spinners and Weavers Guild, the Central Pennsylvania Handweavers Guild, Mid Atlantic Fiber Association, and the annual Sheep-to-Shawl competition at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Weft is located just a half-block from where Tara changed many lives at her Kite Tales SAORI Weaving Arts Studio. The looms in Weft come from Tara’s studio, and we are honored to continue her legacy.