Experiences
Discover Sicily through creativity,
nature and slow living
CHIVA
Trame libere Textile Studio
It is an invitation to create freely, following your own rhythm
About Chiva
My name is Valentina, before becoming a textile artist I worked as an architect.
Creativity has always been part of who I am, but it wasn’t until the quiet days of the pandemic that I discovered weaving. What began almost by chance soon became much more than a craft- it became my language, a way to slow down, express my self and reconnect with my hands.
Years spent living in Cambodia and traveling throughout Asia introduced me to extraordinary textile traditions, skilled artisans and the beauty of handmade work. Those experiences continue to inspire everything I create today.
CHIVA was born from this journey>
Its name is inspired by Shiva, the Hindu deity of transformation, the force of creation and renewal. Just as every woven thread becomes part of a larger fabric, CHIVA represents my own transformation and my belief that creativity has the power to change us.
Today I weave contemporary textiles, explore natural dyes and share this passion through workshops where people can experience the joy of making something with their own hands
Chiva Experiences
Contemporary tapestry workshop
During this one-day workshop, you’ll learn how to design and weave your own unique wall hanging using natural fibres, colour, texture and variety of weaving techniques.
No previous weaving experience is required- just curiosity and the desire to create with your hands
What’s included
all materials provided
use of the loom during the workshop
tea, coffee and light lunch
your finished tapestry to take home
Duration 5/6 hours
65 euro per person
First Steps at the Loom
This workshop introduces the fundamentals of weaving on a two-shaft frame loom. You’ll learn how the loom works, how to prepare the warp , read a simple weaving draft and create different textures and patterns.
No previous weaving experience is required
Duration 1 full day ( or 2 half days)
Level: beginner
Private or small groups
Material included
150 euro p.p
what’s included
use of the loom
material
tea, coffee and light lunch
Natural Dying workshop
Explore the fascinating world of natural dyes and learn how flowers, leaves, roots mad other botanical materials can transform natural fibres into beautiful colours
During this half-day workshop you’ll discover the basics of natural dying, prepare the fibres and create your own naturally dyes yarn or fabric to take home
Duration full day
Level: beginner
Private or small groups
75 euro p.p
what’s included
material
tea, coffee and light lunch
Weaving and Natural Dying Retreat
Take your weaving journey astep further with this immersive multi-day retreat, designer for participants with previous weaving experience. Over several days, you’ll deepen your understanding of handweaving while exploring the art of natural dyeing with seasonal plants and botanical materials. Together we’ll experiment with colour, texture and design, creating unique handwoven textiles inspired by nature
Duration 3-5 days
Level: Intermediate Level
Private or small groups
From 300 euro p.p/day
what’s included
accomodation
full board (b, l, d)
all workshop materials
tuition
tea, coffee and refreshments
access to the swimming pool and all the shared area
A Journey of Learning
Travelling has always been one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Wherever I go, I love learning from local artisans and discovering traditional textile techniques that have been passed down through generations. Over the years, I have travelled to India several times to study the fascinating art of Ikat weaving. This journey of learning continues to shape my work and I look forward to sharing these techniques through future Chiva workshops
New workshops inspired by the Ikat tradition will be available soon