Katie Strano

Katie Strano is a professional weaver who creates woven fabric by the yard for clothing companies, with a particular focus on wearable textiles. Her journey began with sewing and knitting as a child, followed by studies in History and Sociology and a career as a retail buyer for a boutique specializing in imported textiles. After moving to Bethel, Connecticut, Katie discovered Brookfield Craft Center and took her first weaving class with Christine Wilkinson. She quickly became hooked, purchasing a used floor loom and building her skills through continued study and the Handweavers’ Guild of Connecticut.

Today, Katie teaches Rigid Heddle and Floor Loom weaving at Brookfield Craft Center. She enjoys the technical challenge of transforming an idea into an architectural structure of yarn and considers herself a craftsperson, guided by the belief that beauty should serve utility. Her work includes a distinctive approach to deflected double weave, particularly for scarves and wearable art.

Katie is also committed to sustainable weaving, sourcing ethical yarns, avoiding synthetics, and creating textiles designed to be used and enjoyed for years to come.