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Join business owners Rebecca Peraner and Bess Clarke for an intimate and inspiring journey through 57 years of artistry, design, and island heritage.
Step into the storied world of Nantucket Looms, where time-honored craftsmanship and coastal elegance have come together for nearly six decades. This exclusive guided tour offers a rare glimpse into one of Nantucket’s most iconic legacy businesses.
Co-owners and stewards of Nantucket Looms, Rebecca Peraner and Bess Clarke, will personally lead this immersive experience. As lifelong members of the Nantucket community and leaders of this beloved brand, they will share candid stories of how the business evolved from a modest weaving studio into a nationally recognized design destination. Hear the rich history of Nantucket Looms—from its 1968 founding by visionary artisans Andy Oates and Bill Euler, to its present-day leadership under a new generation of Nantucket creatives. Walk through the weaving studio and learn about its connection to legendary figures such as First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, architect I.M. Pei, and tastemaker Bunny Mellon—clients who found beauty in the Looms’ understated, handmade luxury.
Watch as our master weavers bring textiles to life on traditional looms. Using all-natural fibers like mohair, cashmere, alpaca, and cotton, our artisans will showcase techniques passed down through generations. You'll learn how each thread is infused with intention, care, and a deep respect for both tradition and the natural world.
Discover how the Looms' distinct design philosophy—rooted in simplicity, natural beauty, and meaningful curation—is reflected in the stunning homes they create. Get an insider’s look at how their design studio weaves stories into spaces, blending artisanal craft with modern coastal living. Throughout the tour, enjoy curated displays of handwoven goods, local artwork, and one-of-a-kind furnishings that reflect the brand’s signature Nantucket style. Guests will have the opportunity to browse the showroom and learn the provenance behind the pieces.
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Rebecca Peraner-Master Weaver/ Partner
With a reverence for craftsmanship and a passion for preserving tradition, Rebecca “Becky” Jusko Peraner is the heart and hands behind many of Nantucket Looms' most beloved textiles. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Becky first arrived on the island in 1992 and quickly found her calling at the Looms, where she apprenticed under master weaver Andrew Oates. Today, as a partner and director of the weaving studio, she has carried forward over five decades of weaving heritage and is an integral part of the purchasing and curating of the merchandise sold in the shop.
Becky’s work is grounded in time-honored techniques, using all-natural fibers on vintage looms to create heirloom-quality throws, scarves, and bespoke fabrics. Her designs are inspired by the coastal beauty of Nantucket and a belief that there is poetry in imperfection—each handwoven piece telling a quiet, soulful story.
From custom fabrics for Chanel’s global showrooms to one-of-a-kind tapestries that incorporate shells, antique ivory letters, and found objects, Becky’s artistry lives at the intersection of tradition and innovation. She is a steward of the Nantucket Looms legacy and a vital part of its future. Becky resides on Nantucket with her husband, Mike and her two daughters.
Bess Clarke CEO/Partner
With a background in retail marketing and a deep appreciation for Nantucket’s artistry and craftsmanship, Bess Clarke joined Nantucket Looms in 2013 as CEO, bringing a vision to expand the company’s interior design services and establish it as a premier destination for both local and off-island clients seeking timeless, Nantucket-inspired style. She also led the transformation of its artisanal retail offerings into a global ecommerce platform—extending the reach of its handcrafted products while preserving the brand’s commitment to quality and heritage.
In March 2025, Bess guided Nantucket Looms through a landmark moment with the release of its first book, Nantucket Looms: A Legacy of Style, published by Rizzoli. This richly photographed volume chronicles the brand’s legacy, design philosophy, and enduring ties to the island community, serving as both an inspiration and tribute to its artisans and aesthetic.
A dedicated community leader, Bess brings over a decade of nonprofit fundraising experience, including her role as Director of Development at the Nantucket Atheneum. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including Strong Wings Adventure School, Small Friends Early Education Center, Nantucket Music Center, and the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club.
Bess holds a degree from the University of Massachusetts (cum laude) and an Executive Leadership Certification from Cornell University. She lives on Nantucket with her family and continues to guide Nantucket Looms with a focus on sustainability, community, and the enduring spirit of the island.
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