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Inspired by old looms that were gathering dust in attics, seventeen women and one man from Ilsen came together in 1982 to form the "Ilsen Weaving Community" to learn how to spin and weave together and revive these old, local crafts. In the first decade, the Nahrwold family, where the weaving room is still housed today, made their grandparents' former living room available. There was initially room for six looms in a very small space.

Since the old stable was converted into the new weaving room 10 years later, a generous 150 square meters of weaving and exhibition space and a shearing room are now available for use on two levels. This unique facility was made possible by grants from the NRW Foundation, the district of Minden-Lübbecke, the town of Petershagen and, in particular, the active help of many citizens.

Today, there are fourteen fully functional looms from different generations with a weaving width of up to 160 centimetres, the oldest dating back to 1796. Three spinning wheels are also in use. Natural materials such as linen, silk, wool and cotton are used to weave creative, unique items such as table runners, tablecloths, blankets, scarves, bags, clothing, carpets and much more in old and new patterns. Demonstrations convey the old craftsmanship and show special work processes such as shearing and "rearing" a warp as well as setting up a loom. There is also the opportunity to try your own hand at weaving.