Congratulations to Dawn Ahlert
2020 recipient of the Certificate of Excellence (COE) in Handweaving
 | Dawn Ahlert of McAllister, Montana Level I |
The Handweavers Guild of America, Inc. (HGA) is congratulates Dawn Ahlert of McAllister, Montana for receiving her Level 1 Certificate of Excellence (COE) in Handweaving. Normally hosted by a local guild, due to the pandemic the 2020 COE in Handweaving examination was conducted using a hybrid of remote review and online meetings. Many thanks to our applicants for their patience as we adjusted to keep the examination safe; our volunteers, Mary Ann Sanborn and Sandra Swarbrick, for their assistance; and to our examiners, Mary Berent and Marcy Petrini, who were flexible and worked tirelessly to help us conduct this exam socially-distanced.
The COE is a self-directed certification program for HGA members in the areas of Handweaving, Handspinning, Dyeing and Basketmaking. Each of the two levels of COE have different concentrations and require different expertise and knowledge. Level I (Technical Skills) focuses on technical skills, design principles, and knowledge of materials and equipment. Level II (Master with Specialized Study) requires the completion and certification of Level I and is a master level with an in-depth study in a specialized area of the applicant’s choice. A mentor is available to aid applicants.
The COE Handbook explains the requirements for the COE and is available for purchase by applicants and those who are interested in using it as a means to increase their knowledge and skill level. Purchasing the COE Handbook does not require you to submit for the COE Examination.
COE Examinations are conducted using the most recent version of the COE Handbook and take place biannually. Each applicant’s materials are evaluated according to accepted standards of superior handweaving, spinning, dyeing and basketmaking.
Future Deadlines:
February 1, 2021 COE in Spinning paperwork due
September 2, 2021 COE in Dyeing paperwork due
February 1, 2022 COE in Handweaving paperwork due
September 2, 2022 COE in Basketmaking paperwork due
For more information about the COE, hosting an examination, or purchasing a COE Handbook, visit our website. For questions or assistance call (678) 730-0010 or email hga@weavespindye.org.
HGA is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN #06-08661. Our organization and programs are supported in part by generous contributions to HGA’s Fiber Trust.