History

The Guild was founded in November, 1967 for the purpose of promoting interest in, educating and uniting persons attracted to spinning, weaving, and dyeing, through workshops, classes, exhibits, and demonstrations in our community.  The organization was the inspiration of Paul Mercer, an avid crafter, and Edcil Zoller, a professional artist. In June of 1979, the moniker "Fiber Arts Guild" was added as an AKA to the Guild's official name to welcome all fiber artists into our organization.

The Guild was almost immediately involved in national and international fiber events, serving as host to the Handweaver's International Festival in 1969, and the Interweavers Conference in 1993.

In 1970, the Guild received a grant from PBS Channel 10 for a handweaving series, and taught classes in conjunction with the series. We sponsored weaving awards at the Jaycee State Fair from 1967-1972, and for the fiber category at the 1977 Clark County Art Roundup.

Community exhibits and demonstrations are central to our purpose of educating the public about the fiber arts. Over the years members have participated in demonstrations at the Nevada State Fair, Renaissance Fair, Summerlin Art Walk, Spring Mountain Ranch, Old Mormon Fort, and others.  We have also displayed in museums, branches of the Clark County library, farm festivals, parades, cultural centers, and schools. 

We have also donated handmade items to be sold to benefit local charities such as the Downs Syndrome Organization of Nevada, The Empty Bowl at Green Valley High School, Something Scottish, and the Intermountain Weavers Conference Scholarship program.

From time to time the Guild sponsors or joins events to promote the sale of members' creations in conjunction with various community groups.

The Guild also sponsors weaving workshops, bringing nationally known instructors to our community for hands-on classes. When we could not meet in person, the Guild created online meetings and participated in online learning opportunities.  

The Guild continues to bring together those who are interested in fiber arts, opening up new paths to their growth in skills and knowledge.