Weaving – Page 7 – Pine Ledge Fiber Studio

Without me.

I’ve decided not to attend market tomorrow.

I’ll spend my time working on a few new things, instead.
Like these new-to-me fibers from Ashland Bay:

Photo of Yak fiber and yarn sample handspun by Joanne Littler — Yak fiber and yarn sample, handspun by Joanne Littler

Photo of Suri Alpaca fiber and yarn sample handspun by Joanne Littler — Suri Alpaca fiber and yarn sample handspun by Joanne Littler

The small amounts of fiber I sampled (about 1/2 an ounce each) gave me enough information to:

determine the amount of fiber I need to spin
at the appropriate diameter and twist
for the type of yarn I want to make
and the number of yards it will take
for my favorite woven samples
otherwise known as – scarves.

So I’ve written up my project plans; measured out 3 ounces of the Yak and 4.5 ounces of the Suri Alpaca; and added them to the line-up in my next-on-the-list spinning basket.

I also have some Cashmere ready for a shawl. So moving that yarn from skeins to center-pull balls; measuring warp; and dressing a loom is another instead-of-market possibility.

Doesn’t sound as exciting as the Festival of Fools?
Maybe not.
But it’s definitely more my speed.

With a delightfully clear forecast for Saturday, and my crew available to help set up and tear down the booth, I can confidently say: I’m planning to be at market this week.

And in response to comments and suggestions from customers – these three new pieces will be on display:

Photo of cotton and rayon shawl, handwoven by Joanne littlershawl — Black Cotton and Rayon Shawl, 74"x18"

Photo of Merino Wool and Mohair Shawl Handwoven by Joanne Littler — Multi-color Shawl, Merino Wool and Mohair, 71"x18"

Photo of narrow handwoven scarf, with handstitched hems. — Handwoven Cotton and Rayon Scarf, Approximately 64" x 2"

The input I get from people visiting my booth is an incredibly valuable resource – and often exactly the gentle nudge I need to act on an idea, or work through a plan that hasn’t yet made it to the top of my ‘to do’ list.

When someone asks about what they don’t see – “Do you have this is in black?” or “Can you make one without fringe?” or “Are there any of these with more than one color?” – I can answer with a simple “no” – or, I can consider the possibility – take the opportunity to hear more about they have in mind – expand my plan – and include their ideas in what I choose to work on.

It can’t always be ‘next’ – and it may be beyond the scope of my personal syllabus. But when a comment or question lines up with something I’ve been wondering about, or thinking about, or trying to decide whether or not to ‘do’ – that’s when thoughts turn into things.

So a great big thank-you to those of you who take the time to share your ideas!
I hope to see you this week.

Joanne's blog signature, Pine Ledge Fiber Studio

Tag: Weaving

Enjoy the Festival of Fools!

New In The Booth This Week