Soierie Vivante's weaving workshops: tours and demos｜France

Discover the history of the "canuts"--weavers--during a tour of two authentic workshops on Croix-Rousse, the working hill.
Each Friday, we organize tours in English (with an appointment).
First, enter the trimmings workshop, located 21 Rue Richan, 69004 Lyon. Follow the instructions near the door (on the keypad) to get in. The tour begins at 3 P.M. sharp, so be sure to be on time!
During our tour, discover the family and their looms, from their arrival in 1909 to the present day. Observe how trimming looms function during our demonstrations, and learn exactly how a Jacquard mechanism works with an up-close example. You'll also have time to ask questions...or have a look at our shop. We take pride in our selection of silk souvenirs that are locally made.
In the second half of the tour, we'll go to the weaving workshop, located at 12 Bis Rue Justin Godart, 69004 Lyon. (There is only a ten-minute walk between the two places. Be warned: there is a flight of stairs in-between!)
In this second workshop, explore the living space of a 19th-century weaver family. It is the best way to have a glimpse into the canuts' everyday life, and includes a demonstration of a historic 19th-century hand loom. After the hand loom, we will end the tour with an explanation and demonstration of our 1950s original power looms.
Your guide will be able to provide you with recommendations to continue learning about our city's history. Some of the most famous architectural curiosities of Lyon are nearby. We also encourage you to taste the city's rich gastronomy!