Burmese Women's Weaving Group

	Making Three Backstrap Looms Text by John Tegeler Photos: Bill Johnston (bottom), Landon Denkler On Friday, September 11, 2009, several members of the Kansas City Woodworkers Guild met with John "Landon" Denkler, Cultural Anthropologist/Refugee Specialist of the Jewish Vocational Service. Four ladies, Charries Paw, Bwe Poe, Shar Mu (not Present), and Paw Wah Tamia (interpreter) were all refugees from Burma. The Guild was asked to provide assistance in reproducing some basic hand tools used by these ladies in plying their weaving skills. With the skilled craftsmanship of Bill Johnston, Jack Gregg and John Tegeler ... packing blades, stretchers, and dowels for spindles were made, hand planed, sanded smooth, and finished. Advice, wisdom and counsel was provided by Cliff Bell and Diana Rickel. The purpose of the gathering was an opportunity for the two ladies to look over the weaving equipment made by Guild members to make sure they met their basic requirements in order for them to practice the art of weaving. The ladies were here from Burma under the aegis of the Jewish Vocational Service. It is their hope to settle here in the Kansas City area and ply their trade of weaving and making handbags and similar type items to sell. With a few minor adjustments to the three looms on the Guild’s part, the ladies were happy with the tools offered. Below are some of Landon Denkler's comments on January 22, 2010 Dear KC Woodworker’s Guild, I just wanted to update you on the Women’s Weaving Group you so generously aided. I am attaching some photos. They have already sold close to fifteen items and are becoming sustainable in their enterprise. We are now selling their items at Restyle Boutique on West 39^th Street just East of KU Med Center and across from Starbucks. The women are very grateful for your help and I would like to thank you for your efforts and attention to detail and authenticity. Regards, Landon Denkler P.S. I am beginning a new career as a cultural analyst for the U.S. government but will continue volunteering with the Women’s Group on the weekends. My personal email address is denklerlandon@gmail.com if you have any questions or would like to follow-up. John "Landon" Denkler Cultural Anthropologist/Refugee Specialist Jewish Vocational Services