ABSTRACT
This article discusses the challenges faced during the development and implementation of a three-week training course in textile conservation for non-conservation museum professionals initiated as part of an inter-governmental technical cooperation project between Japan and Jordan and held in Amman. The author outlines the challenges faced in planning the course due to limited information about participants’ backgrounds and expectations and offers insights on how to address these challenges. An innovative approach was taken which used much of the first week to experience traditional textile craft skills such as yarn making and natural dyeing using locally sourced wool fleece and dyestuffs to stimulate interest in textiles before addressing conservation concerns. The practical sessions were valuable but time-consuming, making the course content time-intensive and demanding. Despite these challenges, feedback forms completed at the end of the course indicated success. This article emphasizes that courses like this should be applicable to local educational needs while providing gateways for seeking local resources or solutions that will make outcomes sustainable. It also highlights how important flexibility can be when adapting content based on participant needs throughout a training programme tailored towards their specific interests without losing sight of its overall goals.
