tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20150982516127379692024-03-14T00:52:38.168-07:00Fiber AnticsPlays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-65800989399448764032016-02-15T11:48:00.001-08:002016-02-15T11:48:09.314-08:00Busy, busy!I know it's been a very long time since I last posted, but I've been very busy with life and textiles!<br />
<br />
Last weekend was a big SCA event in Kalamazoo called Val Day. As part of Artisan's Row, I brought items I had made from my handwoven fabric: two medieval dresses, several hoods, and a purse in progress (small rows of red hearts)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnMN6xIyMbs/VsIiu9Tj7BI/AAAAAAAAAYo/sj4Mi8Gwmok/s1600/IMG_1621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnMN6xIyMbs/VsIiu9Tj7BI/AAAAAAAAAYo/sj4Mi8Gwmok/s320/IMG_1621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IvtAiLxlZQ/VsIjSBnjKUI/AAAAAAAAAYw/mvwhT3pi8ww/s1600/IMG_1623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IvtAiLxlZQ/VsIjSBnjKUI/AAAAAAAAAYw/mvwhT3pi8ww/s320/IMG_1623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D5RZDmCpPPY/VsImfZWYbmI/AAAAAAAAAZU/l-H3oQi0j_A/s1600/12694570_1074306785967380_4212274923169130207_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D5RZDmCpPPY/VsImfZWYbmI/AAAAAAAAAZU/l-H3oQi0j_A/s320/12694570_1074306785967380_4212274923169130207_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I enjoyed my busy work! I had a band for the purse straps which needed to be sewn together, then sew near each edge to flatten the strap (which had wanted to be a tube).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Egt-KpnHuSE/VsIom8-mLGI/AAAAAAAAAZo/IVWS38J1xKw/s1600/IMG_1622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Egt-KpnHuSE/VsIom8-mLGI/AAAAAAAAAZo/IVWS38J1xKw/s320/IMG_1622.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is the bright blue hood on the table, a type associated with Scandinavian from about the 11th century, but found in a few manuscript illuminations as late as the 14th century. Right now, this is my favorite hood because it gives the warmth of a cloak without the bulk.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zB7tyHsorGY/VsIpamta5SI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/WN_38rEvnyk/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zB7tyHsorGY/VsIpamta5SI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/WN_38rEvnyk/s320/IMG_0496.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-keH2FRdITO4/VsIpYY2-ACI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/yz1PiHM5DH4/s1600/IMG_0495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-keH2FRdITO4/VsIpYY2-ACI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/yz1PiHM5DH4/s320/IMG_0495.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And here are a couple of Christmas ornament exchange items I made: fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WH4UvnKsrFk/VsIo5KaMMdI/AAAAAAAAAZs/-QeTDone-SI/s1600/IMG_1357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WH4UvnKsrFk/VsIo5KaMMdI/AAAAAAAAAZs/-QeTDone-SI/s320/IMG_1357.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JL4iYfECOS4/VsIo7JKalXI/AAAAAAAAAaA/Krylq5r7scs/s1600/IMG_1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JL4iYfECOS4/VsIo7JKalXI/AAAAAAAAAaA/Krylq5r7scs/s320/IMG_1332.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have knitting and other weaving projects to add, but that's for later!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-61062644507492291032015-07-11T15:30:00.004-07:002015-07-11T15:30:54.679-07:00Midwest Weavers ConventionA week after MLH convention, I drove 10 and a half hours to St. Paul for the Midwest Weavers Convention, held on the campus of the University of St. Thomas. Happily, I had arranged in advance to stay with others from my local weaving guild, so the four single rooms in our suite (2 bathrooms, living room, kitchen) were shared with people I knew. (I like meeting new people, but I really liked getting to know members of my guild better--not that we had a lot of time in the suite.)<br />
<br />
My first class was an afternoon survey of Norwegian weaving, taught by Robbie LaFleur, and it was a real delight. I was most interested in medieval tapestries, but throughly enjoyed slides and books shared with us.<br />
<br />
This is a friend of Robbie, wearing the bunad or traditional clothing Robbie had made for her mother. Incredibly beautiful embroidery!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h88YUOjKTss/VaGUioNZM7I/AAAAAAAAAXc/bjvXwPXSLZs/s1600/IMG_0690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h88YUOjKTss/VaGUioNZM7I/AAAAAAAAAXc/bjvXwPXSLZs/s320/IMG_0690.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Saturday I was lucky enough to be in Carol James's all-day class in Sprang. What is that? Sprang is not weaving but manipulated warp, and has quite an ancient history--more than 2,000 known years.<br />
<br />
This is Carol James, wearing a reproduction she made of a 1,000 year old tunic found in Arizona. Yes, 1,000 years old!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPYgBJPMCQ/VaGU6XWbQHI/AAAAAAAAAXk/GVENaU638Io/s1600/IMG_0750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPYgBJPMCQ/VaGU6XWbQHI/AAAAAAAAAXk/GVENaU638Io/s320/IMG_0750.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Stockings researched and made by Carol.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DIJP9MsmUus/VaGVKrBGWvI/AAAAAAAAAXs/2ioeLEcg93k/s1600/IMG_0778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DIJP9MsmUus/VaGVKrBGWvI/AAAAAAAAAXs/2ioeLEcg93k/s320/IMG_0778.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a loom Carol is using to make a sprang scarf with beads. Our class looms were the same but with 24 inch side bars. To make the tall one, all we have to do is go to a hardware store and buy two 6 foot tall dowels.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pNC2cSakN_Y/VaGVSONB-HI/AAAAAAAAAX0/OsXJOVdUOEA/s1600/IMG_0773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pNC2cSakN_Y/VaGVSONB-HI/AAAAAAAAAX0/OsXJOVdUOEA/s320/IMG_0773.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
<br />
Here is Carol showing another tunic she made.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44qF0KstxeI/VaGVb1iq67I/AAAAAAAAAX8/AvHiyBZYBV4/s1600/IMG_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44qF0KstxeI/VaGVb1iq67I/AAAAAAAAAX8/AvHiyBZYBV4/s320/IMG_0840.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
And this is the most amazing reproduction of the silk Burgoyne sash the general gave young George Washington before Burgoyne's death. Officers in the 18th century wore these sprang sashes as a sign of their rank, and they could also be carried in them if they became wounded. Check out Carol James's YouTube videos for all kinds of information on sprang.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2hwIVasulo/VaGVlyocGMI/AAAAAAAAAYE/838uZWWtYTw/s1600/IMG_0843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2hwIVasulo/VaGVlyocGMI/AAAAAAAAAYE/838uZWWtYTw/s320/IMG_0843.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After several wonderful but exhausting days, I drove home another 10 and a half hours, listening to a fascinating Mary Russell mystery by Laurie R. King. <br />
<br />
Since my trip, I've researched a lot more about medieval Scandinavian tapestries and started a sprang project--but those are for another post.<br />
<br />
Happy textile working!<br />
<br />
<br />Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-10543857083456363042015-06-13T15:13:00.003-07:002015-06-13T15:13:57.141-07:00Michigan League of Handweavers Convention<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Earlier in the spring, I saw that Rebecca Mezoff was going to teach tapestry classes in Holland, Michigan, at the Michigan League of Handweavers Convention. I signed up within the first hour of registration and was able to be in her introductory class Saturday the 6th of June and a three-day workshop June 8-10! I've admired her tapestries for several years, but it just hadn't worked out for me to take her classes before.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Friday was the opening of exhibits and vendor sales, followed by a fashion show with everything to traditional to avant garde to just plain fun clothing and accessories. The reception afterward included the most flavorful fruit and the most wonderful specialty cupcakes, and plenty of time to get to meet and greet other weavers. About 144 were registered: some leaving Sunday, the rest on Wednesday. Here is a snappy red dragon from the display.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjn8Et6YOCk/VXyiRz8ia_I/AAAAAAAAAWQ/PveESPJDWq8/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjn8Et6YOCk/VXyiRz8ia_I/AAAAAAAAAWQ/PveESPJDWq8/s320/031.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Saturday's class was a thorough introduction to tapestry from the medieval period to the most modern times and designs. In the afternoon, students used either their own looms or ones provided by Rebecca, whose favorite traveling loom is a Mirrix.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXbplYQPYQo/VXyiVi1LEvI/AAAAAAAAAWY/IrmZ6Mefzas/s1600/034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tXbplYQPYQo/VXyiVi1LEvI/AAAAAAAAAWY/IrmZ6Mefzas/s320/034.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sunday I finished weaving my "Indiana Spring" tapestry (not quite complete here) and then rewarped the loom for the workshop. This 7 X 10" tapestry is my view of some of the greens and fields with sprouting plants in the Spring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U00iZBLrhRc/VXykSmelXeI/AAAAAAAAAXA/cDo-FLwT4M4/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U00iZBLrhRc/VXykSmelXeI/AAAAAAAAAXA/cDo-FLwT4M4/s320/070.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">On Monday, the color theory class was the first of three full days of slides, explanations, and both paper and weaving exercises. Here are tables packed with Harrisville yarns: undyed singles and doubles which she had dyed for her tapestry colors, especially gradations; and ones regularly sold by Harrisville. Our yarn and papers for exercises were part of our class fees, so all we had needed to do was warp our looms before class.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2sWX-HQfGs/VXyicnOB4MI/AAAAAAAAAWg/M1MecygYoFM/s1600/038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2sWX-HQfGs/VXyicnOB4MI/AAAAAAAAAWg/M1MecygYoFM/s320/038.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our first exercise was a reminder that we each "read" colors differently. Rebecca had us pick a square which we thought was the same as a can of Coke, then compared our choice with an actual can to show some of us remember one shade and others another. Plus, our individual abilities to perceive colors varies tremendously. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Through all classes, Rebecca was as funny and helpful as you might expect from her many Youtube videos. Check them out! Don't miss her time-lapse video of a winter greetings tapestry.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is three days steady weaving. The two narrow bands are value exercises with the lightest at the top and the darkest at the bottom in graduation shading. Checking this is easy with black and white, but not so easy with colors. Happily, my phone had a tonal setting which turned all these into black and white images showing the gradations. Someone also suggested an app called Blendoku, which is far too much fun--and also educational.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The stepped design has two parts: the first half is for the warm shades, and the reversing one for the cool ones. Interestingly the blue-green in the top half next to the light blue read "cool" to me and to others, but later I say the camera showed it as warm in black and white.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMlhZM8mi9M/VXyizJR9qOI/AAAAAAAAAWo/JmPrvvuPEjs/s1600/129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iMlhZM8mi9M/VXyizJR9qOI/AAAAAAAAAWo/JmPrvvuPEjs/s320/129.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Out of 12 students, 9 had Mirrix looms! The shedding device makes a huge difference in the speed with which we can work. (I used to be opposed to them, because I love wood, but when I was at a Weaving Indiana meeting during which people brought various looms, I moved the shedding device back and forth and then bought a Mirrix Big Sister in December.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EpR5NlfWBY8/VXyjPHTkAbI/AAAAAAAAAW4/ZlkUQ9VE21g/s1600/092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EpR5NlfWBY8/VXyjPHTkAbI/AAAAAAAAAW4/ZlkUQ9VE21g/s320/092.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One member of Weaving Indiana was in the three-day class, but I had plenty of time to meet and talk with other weavers and teachers, especially during meals in the cafeteria and at evening presentations and receptions. If possible, check out next year's classes when they are on the MLH website and join in the fun and learning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm home, and I still have about six more exercises I can weave up for more explorations of colors and their interplay. (I could have even more from the handouts and the reference books Rebecca discussed, but I want to apply what I have learned.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And after that, another tapestry! Right now I have five planned, so I'll stay a busy bee this summer.</div>
</span>Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-2414678259701178902015-04-05T11:48:00.000-07:002015-04-05T11:48:44.395-07:00Winter's WorkAlthough I haven't posted in a long time, I've certainly been busy!<br />
<br />
Here is the linen gown with the tabletweaving from last fall. The trim is also on the cuffs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1hoIt_oZIYg/VSF84uRFUKI/AAAAAAAAAU8/BM5XtpsSetE/s1600/Maidens%2B2015%2B020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1hoIt_oZIYg/VSF84uRFUKI/AAAAAAAAAU8/BM5XtpsSetE/s1600/Maidens%2B2015%2B020.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hk60OkC564w/VSF8IR08eCI/AAAAAAAAAUs/y7fAwTqsuag/s1600/057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is a wool heart pattern (8 harness) which I need to sew up. The white is exactly the same treadling but the hearts can only be seen when the light catches them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_VkDDsfqVYo/VSF9871Wp2I/AAAAAAAAAVE/SpCw6bU2mDg/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_VkDDsfqVYo/VSF9871Wp2I/AAAAAAAAAVE/SpCw6bU2mDg/s1600/010.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My newest wool gown in another 8 harness pattern. The purse is one of my knitted silk ones (in an early entry).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1dSw-bxLJLo/VSF-CWs4LmI/AAAAAAAAAVM/ecJHz06VOto/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1dSw-bxLJLo/VSF-CWs4LmI/AAAAAAAAAVM/ecJHz06VOto/s1600/024.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is the first half of a bad snowfall, which encouraged me in my textiles this winter!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ws3LWeFhAwY/VSF-UOEX44I/AAAAAAAAAVU/U1TVHf0ckng/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ws3LWeFhAwY/VSF-UOEX44I/AAAAAAAAAVU/U1TVHf0ckng/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here is another 8 harness wool design needing to be sewn up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lDK3fodtOWg/VSF-m8_cz_I/AAAAAAAAAVk/h-ayV3dudBU/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lDK3fodtOWg/VSF-m8_cz_I/AAAAAAAAAVk/h-ayV3dudBU/s1600/006.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And one of my current projects is wildly modern: a free Ravelry pattern called Zick Zack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WW998Xap2Gs/VSF-cJgUTkI/AAAAAAAAAVc/iy0bDAaPcwU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WW998Xap2Gs/VSF-cJgUTkI/AAAAAAAAAVc/iy0bDAaPcwU/s1600/001.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
As of this morning, the first bulbs are trying to open!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mH4aod25WCA/VSGALudt9zI/AAAAAAAAAV4/MmpJ4-tIz6A/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mH4aod25WCA/VSGALudt9zI/AAAAAAAAAV4/MmpJ4-tIz6A/s1600/008.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Happy spring, all, and I hope you are enjoying your fiber and literal gardens!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-38880489945031600912014-11-23T04:59:00.000-08:002014-11-23T04:59:05.908-08:00Historic tablet weavingI have really enjoyed being a member of Facebook's Historic Tablet Weaving list and being inspired by the weaving of so many other people!<br />
<br />
I wove almost three yards of 16/2 linen, which I am going to sew to a medieval dress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AbGsyiAxPpU/VHHY8fXBHAI/AAAAAAAAAUA/B5Lsa3yW9Ns/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AbGsyiAxPpU/VHHY8fXBHAI/AAAAAAAAAUA/B5Lsa3yW9Ns/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
This first one shows the wooden cards I use in different colors. They all have a strong grain, so I can tell where I should be without the ABCD labeling of modern cards.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26xrvoma1Ps/VHHZAp0unzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/JP73nQXEVVE/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26xrvoma1Ps/VHHZAp0unzI/AAAAAAAAAUI/JP73nQXEVVE/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
And this has more of the repeat. The background is one of the natural cotton towels I showed in another post. The pattern is from Applesies and Fox Noses: Finnish Tabletwoven Bands by Maikki Karisto and Mervi Pasanan--a fabulous book with medieval designs and ones inspired by them.Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-22369349160264468212014-11-23T04:49:00.003-08:002014-11-23T04:49:42.448-08:00Medieval HoodSome years back, I had woven red and black Maine Line Jaegerspun 2/8 into 8-harness herringbone and broken diamond twill (same threading, different treadling). However, cutting into the fabric was another issue! I finally cut and hand sewed a medieval style hood in time for the Indiana State Fair, where it won a second.<br />
<br />
First, a side view.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xRmHMeF0gU/VHHW90sgyvI/AAAAAAAAATk/tMwGn5Rx-u0/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xRmHMeF0gU/VHHW90sgyvI/AAAAAAAAATk/tMwGn5Rx-u0/s1600/004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, here are views of the hood as I was wearing it wearing it at a recent SCA event. I definitely enjoyed wearing the hood, which was amazingly cozy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vz93XI68sg/VHHXbH2o7fI/AAAAAAAAATs/u9ghYsynQh4/s1600/056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vz93XI68sg/VHHXbH2o7fI/AAAAAAAAATs/u9ghYsynQh4/s1600/056.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvL9vpKIi2E/VHHXievPv4I/AAAAAAAAAT0/f2saeTCFtD8/s1600/057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvL9vpKIi2E/VHHXievPv4I/AAAAAAAAAT0/f2saeTCFtD8/s1600/057.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Next, more cutting and sewing!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-40641348340335340212014-07-22T07:19:00.000-07:002014-07-22T07:20:05.107-07:00Tabletweaving FrenzyIn the Society for Creative Anachronism (an international group with areas divided into SCA kingdoms and smaller groups), the King of the Midrealm promised the King of Atlantia a fine set of clothes to be given at Pennsic War (a little camping event in western Pennsylvania with 12,000-13,000 medieval through Renaissance reenactors). I found a tabletweaving pattern which reflects the wavy blue and white section of Atlantia's heraldic device, selected Bockens 16/2 linen in dark blue and white, and worked with all speed, finishing it today so I can give it to the woman sewing the medieval Scandinavian caftan and hat. Someone else is sewing a tunic with another person's different tw pattern, and a third person is sewing the pants. Whew! I'm looking forward to seeing it being worn!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohPi62Pvk0I/U85yZgQGxgI/AAAAAAAAATA/s0M_ZMpWDj0/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohPi62Pvk0I/U85yZgQGxgI/AAAAAAAAATA/s0M_ZMpWDj0/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-21442429206918842602014-07-12T02:10:00.001-07:002014-07-12T02:28:33.216-07:00Mini-tapestryRecently I took a three-hour tapestry workshop taught for Weaving Indiana (meeting in Fishers, Indiana) by Barb of The Weavers Loft (Gilford, Indiana). Afterwards, I was inspired to make a 6.25" x 6/25" mini-tapestry inspired by the mesas north of Santa Fe. All the yarns, including the warp, I handspun. I had a general idea of how I had hoped they would turn out, but wasn't entirely sure! I worked it on a Hokett loom, 8 epi. The next step is to finish the ends on the back and decide how to hang it in my office.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3MvJ5ZNfnY/U8D5FdREkQI/AAAAAAAAASw/pANrUBht6fI/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3MvJ5ZNfnY/U8D5FdREkQI/AAAAAAAAASw/pANrUBht6fI/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-47297147669843706482014-06-27T12:57:00.000-07:002014-06-27T12:57:05.149-07:00Towels in nature's own colorsWaaay back in the 1980s, I was in graduate school in Austin, Texas, when I learned about Sally Fox's efforts to cultivate cotton which historically grew in colors: from shades of brown, red, green, and the blue she's still searching for. When Weaving Indiana (a monthly guild meeting about 50 minutes northeast) had a towel exchange last November, I decided to weave up some of those natural cottons I had bought in the previous year or two.<br />
<br />
Through the magic of weaving, all these towels were woven with the same tie-up but different treadling. The "tree" pattern was in an issue of Handwoven. I put the tie-up on my iPad using iWeave it, then I played with the treadling to create all these different towels. Here I have overlapped the finished towels.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68FluywAyYY/U63I3OoqaqI/AAAAAAAAASg/2dtDvqzWIT4/s1600/late+fall+2013+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68FluywAyYY/U63I3OoqaqI/AAAAAAAAASg/2dtDvqzWIT4/s1600/late+fall+2013+001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Also, the next two pictures are the same design: one from the front, the other from the back. In weaving, sometimes the "wrong" side is more striking than the "right" one! (The difference in color is why cameras can be perplexing.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7czUzWoH7E/U63FKQrDBwI/AAAAAAAAARs/ZaYFpqMKo5E/s1600/weaving+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7czUzWoH7E/U63FKQrDBwI/AAAAAAAAARs/ZaYFpqMKo5E/s1600/weaving+004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcPI6KskJ0g/U63GY7cp5oI/AAAAAAAAAR8/S2AZpLU5ms8/s1600/July+2013+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcPI6KskJ0g/U63GY7cp5oI/AAAAAAAAAR8/S2AZpLU5ms8/s1600/July+2013+003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And here is another diamond variation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-xaJ3diuk/U63Gpc82s5I/AAAAAAAAASE/QJp8bKRBNt8/s1600/July+2013+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-xaJ3diuk/U63Gpc82s5I/AAAAAAAAASE/QJp8bKRBNt8/s1600/July+2013+007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
And zig zags!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QMm9B_CWC4Q/U63GKYZgL4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/0EZw4_GrsiU/s1600/July+2013+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QMm9B_CWC4Q/U63GKYZgL4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/0EZw4_GrsiU/s1600/July+2013+002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Part of what is so fascinating about this natural, undyed cotton, is that the color deepens when the fabric is simmered for at least a half hour!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-33920128138008431372014-06-26T15:00:00.001-07:002014-06-26T15:00:21.080-07:00Beaded PursesHere are some of the beaded crocheted purses I have made in the past.<br />
<br />
The first one I made started with a chain at the bottom, with single crochets worked in the top of the chain on each side, creating the spiral. Once the beading pattern was established, I kept single crocheting and developed the checkerboard design. Periodically, I had to add new beads but concealed the join so it is hard to find it inside. After the beading was done, I did double crochets to create holes for the ties, then more crocheting and beads at the very top. The last task was to string beads and crochet fringes at the bottom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L4-S3WHEtHw/U6yUs49HzPI/AAAAAAAAARE/Y3NNCDFfq0Y/s1600/259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L4-S3WHEtHw/U6yUs49HzPI/AAAAAAAAARE/Y3NNCDFfq0Y/s1600/259.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The photo doesn't fully show how this purse sparkles!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9_VknzFmD_M/U6yVD8STm9I/AAAAAAAAARM/kZuzMJyk1_Q/s1600/261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9_VknzFmD_M/U6yVD8STm9I/AAAAAAAAARM/kZuzMJyk1_Q/s1600/261.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
This purse is actually brighter and sparkles much more than it seems because the beads are cut.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eGlLQ9iuhYs/U6yVu95VV8I/AAAAAAAAARU/9-Ybw3s3F_Q/s1600/263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eGlLQ9iuhYs/U6yVu95VV8I/AAAAAAAAARU/9-Ybw3s3F_Q/s1600/263.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The "shadow" on this Victorian-inspired purse is caused by the steel-cut beads not aging the same. The tie is a velvet ribbon threaded through double crochet. You can just see the top row of tiny beads.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0S-4x_N883Q/U6yWFeENOdI/AAAAAAAAARc/SzC52mlLN2A/s1600/264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0S-4x_N883Q/U6yWFeENOdI/AAAAAAAAARc/SzC52mlLN2A/s1600/264.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
(The background is a towel I wove of natural, undyed cotton--but that's a story for another post!)Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-43769072882135691302014-06-26T12:21:00.000-07:002014-06-26T12:23:26.143-07:00Beaded Crochet Amulet BagRecently, I taught a class in beaded crocheting, so here is the information if you would like to give it a try.<br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A
Simple Beaded Amulet Bag</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxEjhfEw-0A/U6xw3n-6gtI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/mGDmcSRZYh4/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxEjhfEw-0A/U6xw3n-6gtI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/mGDmcSRZYh4/s1600/007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Supplies: crochet cotton, beads
which can fit through the cotton folded in half, crochet hook appropriate for
the size of cotton. (The sample was made with size 3 cotton and size 6 beads.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>1. Slip beads from sewing thread onto crochet thread. Don’t try to do too many at a time or you could risk breaking the sewing thread and having beads cascade everywhere! In the sample, I used 84 beads (7 in each row). It’s better to have a few extra than too few.</o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AuXti4om0jE/U6xwMnyJhCI/AAAAAAAAAQk/CxjJBpSH3tg/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AuXti4om0jE/U6xwMnyJhCI/AAAAAAAAAQk/CxjJBpSH3tg/s1600/005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Clm6qJx5A2o/U6xwjYGINcI/AAAAAAAAAQs/16ct_q06fEE/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Clm6qJx5A2o/U6xwjYGINcI/AAAAAAAAAQs/16ct_q06fEE/s1600/006.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Chain 29, then join. This gives you a circle of 28
stiches (7 sets of 4 stitches). Single crochet around.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(You will actually be working in a spiral, so no end of row
extra chaining will be needed at the start of each row.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. At beginning of second row, insert hook, pull thread
through, slide one bead toward the far side of the circle, then hook thread to
complete single crochet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Note: the bead stays on the far side. If it slips through,
undo the stitch and redo.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Single crochet three stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Repeat: single crochet with bead, then 3 single crochets
without beads to end of round.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Single crochet 2 stitches, *single crochet with bead,
single crochet 3 stitches; repeat to end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To check your work, you should have staggered rows of beads
like in the sample.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Repeat rows 4 and 5 for 12 rows or to preferred length.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Single crochet one plain row then fasten off. (Before you
fasten off, see if you would like a second plain single crochet row. Turn work
inside out then sew bottom edge. Thread ties carefully inbetween stitches of
final row and fasten. Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To use a finer thread, work a sample with finer beads then
increase number of starting chain stitches, being sure you can divide them by
4.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To make a larger purse, you will need to decide on your
desired width, then make multiples of 4 in your total chaining. Obviously, you
will need to add beads, so that means you will cut your working thread, leaving
a 2-3 inch tail. Restring, then start the pattern again, catching the tail of
your first thread inside the purse (leaving 2-3 inches of the new thread to be
carefully threaded through later). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t overload your thread with beads because glass beads
will abrade the thread, and that will show on the non-beaded stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When using finer thread, you might want to end with 1 single
crochet row; 1 row with doublecrochet, skip 3 stitches, repeat to end; and 1
single crochet row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Knitted Amulet Bag<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Cast on 28 stitches, using double pointed needles which will give firm,
close stitches. Knit 1 row in the round plain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. Before starting row 2, slide one bead next to the needle
then knit 4 stitches, then </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*slide 1 bead then knit 4* to end. Check that the
bead is not caught in the stitches but is between them. Slide 1 bead, knit 4 stitches
to end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3. At start of row 2, knit 2 stitches, *slide bead, knit 4*
and repeat until 2 plain knit stitches remain and knit those.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4. Continue alternating 2 and 3, checking that you have rows
of alternating beads to desired length.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5. Knit 2 rows plain and cast off (not too tight, not too
loose). Sew lower edge close. Insert ties between stitches.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When using finer thread, you might want to end with 1 plain
row, 1 row with yarn overs every 4 stitches, then 1 plain row.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Note: there are other methods of knitting with beads, but
this is the simplest and good to use for a first project.<o:p></o:p></div>
Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-73368636569986496552014-06-26T04:45:00.002-07:002014-06-26T04:45:47.690-07:00Mini-mitten Mania!After all the mittens, there should be no surprise that when the Latvian mitten group on Ravelry had a min-mitten exchange, I had to participate. I used 1.5mm or 000 needles and Koigu fingering yarn. I didn't enjoy the tiny thumbs, but the hands were fun and I was surprised at how recognizably Latvian the minis were. They aren't true miniatures (wearable by dolls) because the yarn isn't stranded to keep the hands and thumbs open.<br />
<br />
This is the first pair I made, "larger" than the others. When I realized I had made a mistake in the brown, I decided that meant my first pair would be mine! The thumbs are hard to see because they are knit in pattern.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tyg0X_THNqo/U6wEYPAqeuI/AAAAAAAAAPs/aDJ5ux7Zy6Y/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tyg0X_THNqo/U6wEYPAqeuI/AAAAAAAAAPs/aDJ5ux7Zy6Y/s1600/004.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-182VCmuUo/U6wEsCEre_I/AAAAAAAAAP0/FULTMXY-71U/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-182VCmuUo/U6wEsCEre_I/AAAAAAAAAP0/FULTMXY-71U/s1600/005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These are the exchange pairs. Note that one even has a tiny version of the braid in the "wrist."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHU3bsFaSMw/U6wD91ChTrI/AAAAAAAAAPk/QF92mGJeIMo/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHU3bsFaSMw/U6wD91ChTrI/AAAAAAAAAPk/QF92mGJeIMo/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeRzuHzBzHQ/U6wDlI2iJ8I/AAAAAAAAAPc/jnU_200hlJ8/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VeRzuHzBzHQ/U6wDlI2iJ8I/AAAAAAAAAPc/jnU_200hlJ8/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I mistakenly sent the box to the wrong address (fortunately, to someone 40 miles from the intended recipient). This is my "Oops. Thank you." pair for her.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlKmP6SmSe8/U6wFM-iQszI/AAAAAAAAAP8/DzkcdXkycLU/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlKmP6SmSe8/U6wFM-iQszI/AAAAAAAAAP8/DzkcdXkycLU/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKPRplpEuT0/U6wFiE6ZNVI/AAAAAAAAAQE/WjQjZZMXLsU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OKPRplpEuT0/U6wFiE6ZNVI/AAAAAAAAAQE/WjQjZZMXLsU/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And these are the pairs I received!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjYQcevDHSI/U6wF1iohvUI/AAAAAAAAAQM/7StPEbFXfYo/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjYQcevDHSI/U6wF1iohvUI/AAAAAAAAAQM/7StPEbFXfYo/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Thtng_U5Xs/U6wGFhsHUPI/AAAAAAAAAQU/4cNqkyk5ZZ0/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Thtng_U5Xs/U6wGFhsHUPI/AAAAAAAAAQU/4cNqkyk5ZZ0/s1600/003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Obviously, minis can be great ornaments or nametag decorations!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-14772320135916218272014-06-25T11:51:00.000-07:002014-06-25T11:51:13.467-07:00Mitten Mania!Woops! It's been an entire year since my last post, but that means I have a lot of catch-up posting to do.<br />
<br />
Since October, I've been doing a lot of wool mitten knitting with patterns from Ravelry. This first one isn't a Halloween pattern, but I had a perfect shaded orange for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YyhO_K_bCnE/U6sTXZ628RI/AAAAAAAAANw/ukEIcVf1i5E/s1600/update+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YyhO_K_bCnE/U6sTXZ628RI/AAAAAAAAANw/ukEIcVf1i5E/s1600/update+075.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This next one was my first mystery Knit-A-Long, and I really enjoyed seeing it develop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z0T6VEBBXk/U6sT6BzNAbI/AAAAAAAAAN4/IvEIR5FWty0/s1600/late+fall+2013+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Z0T6VEBBXk/U6sT6BzNAbI/AAAAAAAAAN4/IvEIR5FWty0/s1600/late+fall+2013+147.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Can you spot the images from The Secret Garden? This was January's KAL.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n-cuyQaREF0/U6sUTabVsoI/AAAAAAAAAOA/iieKQAmPUUM/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n-cuyQaREF0/U6sUTabVsoI/AAAAAAAAAOA/iieKQAmPUUM/s1600/007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LgJGMe_CdmM/U6sUktZz39I/AAAAAAAAAOI/ROVYyLiYmFU/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LgJGMe_CdmM/U6sUktZz39I/AAAAAAAAAOI/ROVYyLiYmFU/s1600/009.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And of course, Saint Patrick's Day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bOAVmwBjscU/U6sV4NTpMkI/AAAAAAAAAOU/XZElmUwiD7Q/s1600/161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bOAVmwBjscU/U6sV4NTpMkI/AAAAAAAAAOU/XZElmUwiD7Q/s1600/161.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdugjNjQLNk/U6sWRQAp6II/AAAAAAAAAOc/tqK4igvQ6hM/s1600/162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdugjNjQLNk/U6sWRQAp6II/AAAAAAAAAOc/tqK4igvQ6hM/s1600/162.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />I chose this pattern for Ravellenics (started on the first day of the Olympics, finished by the closing ceremonies).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jxqcn1-h4h8/U6sWkmuOepI/AAAAAAAAAOk/S2IImsUPnWE/s1600/158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jxqcn1-h4h8/U6sWkmuOepI/AAAAAAAAAOk/S2IImsUPnWE/s1600/158.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZPy-MmtmZM/U6sW4s0gTXI/AAAAAAAAAOs/CaOU1HXDtdU/s1600/157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZPy-MmtmZM/U6sW4s0gTXI/AAAAAAAAAOs/CaOU1HXDtdU/s1600/157.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Fun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWD2VdYWD2E/U6sXqDkF4iI/AAAAAAAAAO0/Pe7nGQyW1nE/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWD2VdYWD2E/U6sXqDkF4iI/AAAAAAAAAO0/Pe7nGQyW1nE/s1600/004.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfTr2G8AGGY/U6sX8rQqA9I/AAAAAAAAAO8/igBPj1g3L74/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfTr2G8AGGY/U6sX8rQqA9I/AAAAAAAAAO8/igBPj1g3L74/s1600/003.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The ram and ewe mittens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqcAMFSjwKk/U6sYaz1tLUI/AAAAAAAAAPE/EgkqB_3AQZY/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqcAMFSjwKk/U6sYaz1tLUI/AAAAAAAAAPE/EgkqB_3AQZY/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JjSRAbf9s90/U6sYs0PHqoI/AAAAAAAAAPM/BhIRtBge_4s/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JjSRAbf9s90/U6sYs0PHqoI/AAAAAAAAAPM/BhIRtBge_4s/s1600/002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And more to come later!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-5947914664889724382013-06-01T13:08:00.000-07:002013-06-01T17:30:45.508-07:00First handwoven gown!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K0u0DpTAPyM/UapTQU42GaI/AAAAAAAAANY/qYKyZue753s/s1600/Kingdom+A+&+S+2013+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K0u0DpTAPyM/UapTQU42GaI/AAAAAAAAANY/qYKyZue753s/s320/Kingdom+A+&+S+2013+003.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Although this image looks dark, you can scroll down to see a much brighter version of the black and elderberry fabric using the 8-harness 13th c draft. I'm also wearing one of my knitted silk purses. Even though I wore this at the Midrealm's Kingdom Arts and Sciences day, only one person commented on the gown--and that was after complimenting me on the lavender silk hairnet I had made and was wearing! Oh, well, I was excited! Happily, it was unusually cool that morning in northern Indiana, so I was able to wear it through lunch, after which I changed into a linen gown.Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-6802193089659840852013-05-06T14:40:00.000-07:002013-05-06T14:40:07.407-07:00Green Spring!April was the second rainiest in Indiana (.01 short of the record), but at least it means May is green! I took the blue and grey off the loom, and decided to wind a three-yard + waste warp in Jaegerspun Maine Line wool 2/8 in Basil. The diamond design and the columns are both threaded the same but treadled differently. I suspected the diamond would be best with a contrasting weft, but I really like the columns.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nE0vn3F9QZU/UYgiweemjFI/AAAAAAAAANE/H9N9ErfaPZs/s1600/Green+Spring+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nE0vn3F9QZU/UYgiweemjFI/AAAAAAAAANE/H9N9ErfaPZs/s320/Green+Spring+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At home, I've been cutting and hand sewing medieval hoods. Pictures to come!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-86123552940101295162013-04-30T14:03:00.000-07:002013-04-30T14:03:02.728-07:00End of semesterIn academics, this is the end of the semester, with an absurd number of essays to mark, then finals to give and mark. At the Indianapolis Art Center, this is the last week of classes for a month. Floor loom weaving deprivation ahead!<br />
<br />
I have spent as much as I could in the fiber studio, and this Sunday was able to cut my Marine Blue and Shale fabric off the loom. After weaving 6.5 yards, I did the rest in another treadling in solid blue to make a zig zag pattern I really enjoy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgjH09NPzPM/UYAuaSydU-I/AAAAAAAAAMM/rSieDuke5PU/s1600/GEDC0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgjH09NPzPM/UYAuaSydU-I/AAAAAAAAAMM/rSieDuke5PU/s320/GEDC0065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKmnnZIQoPQ/UYAudOLTd0I/AAAAAAAAAMU/1idYqkmvMaU/s1600/GEDC0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PKmnnZIQoPQ/UYAudOLTd0I/AAAAAAAAAMU/1idYqkmvMaU/s320/GEDC0068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
To make life even better, the weekend of the 20th I had a three-day workshop on rug weaving with Jason Collingwood. Everybody was faster than I was, but I still learned a lot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlbDJ1OmIXM/UYAu6C9JvAI/AAAAAAAAAMc/4xFB5gq5Bc0/s1600/GEDC0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PlbDJ1OmIXM/UYAu6C9JvAI/AAAAAAAAAMc/4xFB5gq5Bc0/s320/GEDC0059.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here are just a few of the different techniques used in the class:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwVrTtiJH9w/UYAvNY8fxwI/AAAAAAAAAMk/XjewdvWnhUE/s1600/GEDC0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RwVrTtiJH9w/UYAvNY8fxwI/AAAAAAAAAMk/XjewdvWnhUE/s320/GEDC0022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Jason demonstrating linking wefts on someone's loom.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iar3KnlLGHI/UYAvZcdfE8I/AAAAAAAAAMs/sH0YTue8vOE/s1600/GEDC0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iar3KnlLGHI/UYAvZcdfE8I/AAAAAAAAAMs/sH0YTue8vOE/s320/GEDC0028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Linking weft threads to create the wedges.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XAaLpfbkC8/UYAvcfZaoQI/AAAAAAAAAM0/A-ejRAtLARE/s1600/GEDC0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XAaLpfbkC8/UYAvcfZaoQI/AAAAAAAAAM0/A-ejRAtLARE/s320/GEDC0031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Whew! The workbook has far more techniques than I could keep up with, so I definitely have more to try. Take his workshops if you have a chance. He's funny, patient, and very clear in his instructions. I'm glad I have his father's big book, The Technique of Rug Weaving, as well.<br />
<br />
I'm busy winding warp, hoping to wind it on this week so I'll be ready to go for the next class at the Art Center the first week of June.<br />
<br />
Happy weaving!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-71889973231069555002013-04-06T16:45:00.002-07:002013-04-06T16:46:09.405-07:00Spring--at last!During March I finished weaving the six yards of my black and elderberry wool and am now sewing it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QBWwpSBRM4/UWCrJrYt84I/AAAAAAAAALk/v_Qu7qiZYdI/s1600/GEDC0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QBWwpSBRM4/UWCrJrYt84I/AAAAAAAAALk/v_Qu7qiZYdI/s320/GEDC0054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I've now started 8 yards of an 8-harness draft in Marine Blue and Shale (light grey, although it looks white in the photos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JoVC7GqbtH4/UWCqr_F--8I/AAAAAAAAALc/zLZ1sl0ThU8/s1600/100_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JoVC7GqbtH4/UWCqr_F--8I/AAAAAAAAALc/zLZ1sl0ThU8/s320/100_0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first is the right side, and then the second picture has he right side above and the "wrong" side being wound.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EngLQLOPPNc/UWCr49DMbjI/AAAAAAAAALs/4hVS1i4qcIw/s1600/100_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EngLQLOPPNc/UWCr49DMbjI/AAAAAAAAALs/4hVS1i4qcIw/s320/100_0050.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For one week, these lovely star flowers bloom, but only in areas which are mainly shady. They even appear before crocus!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f6LRC5pWlHw/UWCr6gvHGsI/AAAAAAAAAL0/G85-pPjvR7s/s1600/100_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f6LRC5pWlHw/UWCr6gvHGsI/AAAAAAAAAL0/G85-pPjvR7s/s320/100_0064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mw8-n47RU0/UWCsRV5ZwwI/AAAAAAAAAL8/W93XY9gnnY8/s1600/100_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4mw8-n47RU0/UWCsRV5ZwwI/AAAAAAAAAL8/W93XY9gnnY8/s320/100_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Today the temperatures reached 70, for the first time since early November, so Spring is here--at least for a few days!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-78131691255605408132013-02-09T17:29:00.000-08:002013-02-09T17:29:16.680-08:00Surprise! It worked!Here is the full repeat before simmering:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxm27b778jQ/URb2U6q4JgI/AAAAAAAAALA/uWyoKocwapc/s1600/100_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxm27b778jQ/URb2U6q4JgI/AAAAAAAAALA/uWyoKocwapc/s320/100_0023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the repeat after 30 minutes simmering in plain water. If the colors ever fade, all I need to do is re-simmer!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GiyMFaDV0gg/URb2ei8iQcI/AAAAAAAAALI/zZydyje9p_Q/s1600/100_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GiyMFaDV0gg/URb2ei8iQcI/AAAAAAAAALI/zZydyje9p_Q/s320/100_0028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Back in the 70s, Sally Fox read about the many colors of naturally colored cotton grown in South America and worked hard to rediscover these through experiments in early selective growing. She sells them through Vreisis, and others have followed her path. So far, she still hasn't found the true red and true lavender mentioned in ancient records. Still, amazing!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-73239113156997253162013-01-24T18:52:00.002-08:002013-01-24T18:52:54.789-08:00In progress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last weekend at the 10th anniversary celebration for Weaving Indiana, the others brought in their challenge projects of gamps, all in bright colors. I finally warped my tabletop loom with six shades of naturally colored cotton: green, unbleached natural, oatmeal, khaki, caramel, and buffalo, with a second panel of green for a border. When it's done, I'll simmer it about a half hour until the colors darken, and then those colors are supposed to stay the darker shades. Fun experiment!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jTGCEIkARXU/UQHv5Sitk6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/A7rfXMZwdMA/s1600/100_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jTGCEIkARXU/UQHv5Sitk6I/AAAAAAAAAKY/A7rfXMZwdMA/s320/100_0013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Warping black is not fun, but when I saw this medieval pattern, I thought it would look great with the black pattern and plum for the background, and so it is. I was thrilled to see the first repeats develop.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mY68Nb97SjI/UQHwob9OreI/AAAAAAAAAKg/1UH7L7PL4rc/s1600/100_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mY68Nb97SjI/UQHwob9OreI/AAAAAAAAAKg/1UH7L7PL4rc/s320/100_0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here are the right and "wrong" sides.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vLn_HYC-yA/UQHxM4bw_oI/AAAAAAAAAKo/VwD-QDyLcF8/s1600/100_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4vLn_HYC-yA/UQHxM4bw_oI/AAAAAAAAAKo/VwD-QDyLcF8/s320/100_0015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I have a six-yard warp, so I'll have a medieval dress before the winter is over!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-63626865649454881112013-01-01T16:39:00.002-08:002013-01-01T16:39:18.768-08:00Four-harness to Eight-harness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After the last post, I wove very quickly! Here you can see the right and wrong sides of the fabric.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htWxesWB1C4/UON0Jyl4j3I/AAAAAAAAAH0/Fr5EfzB4kcs/s1600/GEDC0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-htWxesWB1C4/UON0Jyl4j3I/AAAAAAAAAH0/Fr5EfzB4kcs/s320/GEDC0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Now, here is the "wrong" side.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojD8nKhkl0w/UON0xi6UNjI/AAAAAAAAAII/u4mBc_yAydk/s1600/GEDC0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojD8nKhkl0w/UON0xi6UNjI/AAAAAAAAAII/u4mBc_yAydk/s320/GEDC0034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here you can see the transition from the red and white to the blue and white. (Oops! I made mistakes in the weaving of the first blue and white repeat.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pV7z3B2D5lQ/UON2G9DXttI/AAAAAAAAAIc/4Bvd--TjmMs/s1600/GEDC0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pV7z3B2D5lQ/UON2G9DXttI/AAAAAAAAAIc/4Bvd--TjmMs/s320/GEDC0025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is the right side.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFGcNNDovnI/UON3Z7OCCiI/AAAAAAAAAIw/by7B9bTpbag/s1600/GEDC0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFGcNNDovnI/UON3Z7OCCiI/AAAAAAAAAIw/by7B9bTpbag/s320/GEDC0033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the "wrong" side<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gL1jVcwGrM/UON5FUkSQwI/AAAAAAAAAJM/htOpxWgpwrk/s1600/GEDC0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0gL1jVcwGrM/UON5FUkSQwI/AAAAAAAAAJM/htOpxWgpwrk/s320/GEDC0024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Now, both sides after felting. I definitely prefer the "wrong" side with the slightly raised white interlacing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tdt_0f67DHA/UON7MzoLEAI/AAAAAAAAAJg/wQDYLY8tvjo/s1600/GEDC0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tdt_0f67DHA/UON7MzoLEAI/AAAAAAAAAJg/wQDYLY8tvjo/s320/GEDC0036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
And after felting, the rosette really recedes, but the "wrong" side has a fleur de lys appearance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uae4Exs4UB4/UON7yPkPVXI/AAAAAAAAAJo/CGBnaZl1shQ/s1600/GEDC0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uae4Exs4UB4/UON7yPkPVXI/AAAAAAAAAJo/CGBnaZl1shQ/s320/GEDC0039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Yes, they really were made with the same threading of the warp!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGbfWS2l3YM/UON8fhvZOhI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/qRNHEl2bWpY/s1600/GEDC0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGbfWS2l3YM/UON8fhvZOhI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/qRNHEl2bWpY/s320/GEDC0031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The blue and white had an 82-row repeat, which I had to separate into two pieces and mark the working row with a sticky arrow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKFJAVqRdCc/UON9AExtAkI/AAAAAAAAAKE/ljQP8hqbyKs/s1600/GEDC0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKFJAVqRdCc/UON9AExtAkI/AAAAAAAAAKE/ljQP8hqbyKs/s320/GEDC0022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Ah, dreams of the next 8-harness draft!<br />
<br />
Happy New Year! May you fulfill many of your fiber hopes and find wonderfully unexpected ones!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-4090257927862771602012-11-30T05:33:00.001-08:002012-11-30T05:33:33.460-08:00Fall adventuresFor the first fall session, I decided to weave yellow 8/2 Jaegerspun merino into tabby which I would felt then cut into dagged hoods. Oh, my! Yards of tabby was incredibly boring and also more difficult than expected to achieve an even beat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hLfrb_rhGM/ULiyw9sbHnI/AAAAAAAAAG0/xO-wvINpHyo/s1600/100_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hLfrb_rhGM/ULiyw9sbHnI/AAAAAAAAAG0/xO-wvINpHyo/s320/100_0298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When this was done, I wove red and black broken diamond twill to make a pair of medieval hoods for good friends (Jaegerspun 8/2, Garnet and Black--the Garnet is very bright, not muted as here).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p_ns28Pfn4I/ULizTgIwLbI/AAAAAAAAAG8/mrWEZtiE0j0/s1600/DSC00023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p_ns28Pfn4I/ULizTgIwLbI/AAAAAAAAAG8/mrWEZtiE0j0/s320/DSC00023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This was supposed to be my work of the second session, but my instructor was going to bring in her 8-harness Gilmore loom, so I wove every day that I cold get to the Indianapolis Art Center and completed it just a few days before the second session started.<br />
<br />
My first 8-harness floor loom pattern, is fascinating because of the big difference between the right side (red rosettes) and the wrong side (white motifs).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkFbab2SQ9o/ULi0fwPUq8I/AAAAAAAAAHE/nySFwabQP2w/s1600/GEDC0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkFbab2SQ9o/ULi0fwPUq8I/AAAAAAAAAHE/nySFwabQP2w/s320/GEDC0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XRG_dPR6UPE/ULi0882qjeI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/R4xYdxHZITc/s1600/GEDC0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XRG_dPR6UPE/ULi0882qjeI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/R4xYdxHZITc/s320/GEDC0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
What is particularly fascinating is that when I have enough of this (one or more hoods), I can change the treadle tie up and create a radically different geometric pattern.<br />
<br />
Happy weaving!Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-40187508149949660602012-08-01T10:28:00.001-07:002012-08-01T10:28:10.103-07:00Medieval Silk KnittingI've been knitting for more than fifty years, exploring a wide variety of styles and techniques. The first time I saw photos of medieval silk knitting in Richard Rutt's <u>A History of Hand Knitting</u>, I really wanted to reproduce some of the reliquary purses, but I couldn't find the appropriate silk anywhere. At the International Medieval Congress in Kalamazoo, Nancy Spies gave a talk on her marvelous book, <u>Ecclesiastical Pomp and Aristocratic Circumstance</u> (on brocaded tabletweaving). She had brought samples of the work done for the book, and they were obviously made with the silk I needed. It turns out she had bought 60/2 silk from The Handweavers Studio in London. The next time I was there, I bought a few colors.<br />
<br />
This first purse was close to the fourteenth-century original, although not all the shades are accurate (but they were what I had). As in the originals, two strands of each color were used. I worked with 00000 or 1 mm needles, 18 stitches and 22 rows to the inch. At first, they really hurt my hands, but I became used to them and had no problems with other projects using them. I often needed a magnifier if the colors were close in tone. The drawstrings are fingerloop braids in two colors. I put this in the Indiana State Fair but received no award. (One of the volunteers told me that the judge had said it had to have been machine made because no one could knit that fine!!!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbRr3H_knAc/UBliVPdseGI/AAAAAAAAAFs/CxCtcvPFKO0/s1600/GEDC0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbRr3H_knAc/UBliVPdseGI/AAAAAAAAAFs/CxCtcvPFKO0/s320/GEDC0005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This next ones uses a design from a thirteenth-century cushion from Spain. When I put it in the State Fair the following year, I displayed it on a board with a sample on needles and information about medieval silk knitting. It won both best in accessories and best of all knitting!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CiE57__jq-Y/UBli0Sd49hI/AAAAAAAAAF4/fsImShHwTnw/s1600/GEDC0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CiE57__jq-Y/UBli0Sd49hI/AAAAAAAAAF4/fsImShHwTnw/s320/GEDC0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This one uses designs from one of the fourteenth-century purses but in single-colors instead of breaking up the design with a contrasting color in the center row.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ytuSsgKp5mA/UBljO4h7o0I/AAAAAAAAAGA/o4w5S9cwq54/s1600/GEDC0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ytuSsgKp5mA/UBljO4h7o0I/AAAAAAAAAGA/o4w5S9cwq54/s320/GEDC0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The zigzag design is from other medieval motifs. I haven't decided which kind of fringe to use, but I'd like to use a more complex one than the other purses have.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFiGvmv32s0/UBljtPgt59I/AAAAAAAAAGM/FtfyqceabBo/s1600/GEDC0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFiGvmv32s0/UBljtPgt59I/AAAAAAAAAGM/FtfyqceabBo/s320/GEDC0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here is another, again using more modern two-color taste than the broken and multicolor medieval tendency, and only using a single design instead of multiple different bands.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s5r7zFXTIjY/UBlkMT6_MXI/AAAAAAAAAGU/-ZZ1lMq7v_g/s1600/GEDC0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s5r7zFXTIjY/UBlkMT6_MXI/AAAAAAAAAGU/-ZZ1lMq7v_g/s320/GEDC0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I have more purses I would like to make with the ridiculous number of colors I have collected on my trips to London! Of course, I use them for tabletweaving and other work! And yes, I do wear these when I reenact in fourteenth-century style clothing, so I really am able to enjoy them.Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-90509747494003878242012-08-01T09:54:00.000-07:002012-08-01T09:54:06.928-07:00Bobbin Lace CollarsBack in the 80s and 90s, I made several bobbin lace collars. My favorite style is Bedfordshire lace, which is often characterized by plaits (braids) and tallies (leaf-shaped, square, rectangular, etc.).<br />
<br />
The first is adapted from a two-piece pattern by Mo Gibbs. At the time, I loathed the few leaf-shaped tallies and usually stopped a few days before attempting each set! The raised and rolled ones on top of the cloth stitch were less hard because I figured the cloth stitch would hide errors .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THCrgjg4WKs/UBldFRQu7NI/AAAAAAAAAFU/v75t34Nwsig/s1600/100_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THCrgjg4WKs/UBldFRQu7NI/AAAAAAAAAFU/v75t34Nwsig/s320/100_0040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eyeYXWM3Iv8/UBldYgFZODI/AAAAAAAAAFc/bsHhxfWgMXc/s1600/100_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eyeYXWM3Iv8/UBldYgFZODI/AAAAAAAAAFc/bsHhxfWgMXc/s320/100_0038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the second collar, with the tallies worked over half-stitch ground. At the time, I disliked half-stitch ground because I didn't like the pairs separating. I still like starting with bobbins in pairs!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AoskclfN10/UBkSizEsuYI/AAAAAAAAAEU/52xZrBK9_R8/s1600/GEDC0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AoskclfN10/UBkSizEsuYI/AAAAAAAAAEU/52xZrBK9_R8/s320/GEDC0008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZJkCuTWw2I/UBkSzLsy2zI/AAAAAAAAAEc/eXhTUWRZPNw/s1600/GEDC0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZJkCuTWw2I/UBkSzLsy2zI/AAAAAAAAAEc/eXhTUWRZPNw/s320/GEDC0009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is Christine Springett's Thousand Tally collar. Yes, more than 1,000 tallies, which certainly got me over my tally fear! Of course, the drawback is that there is a difference between the wobbly ones at the start and the more consistent ones at the end! Anyone close enough to spot the difference is invading my space!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpAe7yZc6SE/UBkTuFEzApI/AAAAAAAAAEk/SqUy9dsy1w8/s1600/GEDC0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpAe7yZc6SE/UBkTuFEzApI/AAAAAAAAAEk/SqUy9dsy1w8/s320/GEDC0004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fm7zTeklZpY/UBkUBF4t4zI/AAAAAAAAAEw/W6YOBf0qqek/s1600/GEDC0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fm7zTeklZpY/UBkUBF4t4zI/AAAAAAAAAEw/W6YOBf0qqek/s320/GEDC0007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Back when Christine Springett still ran the British College of Lace in Rugby, I signed up for a class with Barbara Underwood. I let Barbara know that I was particularly interested in learning more about raised and rolled tallies at the intersection of plaits. She didn't have a collar specifically designed for that, but she said that this redrawn nineteenth-century collar had so many intersecting plaits that I could decide where I wanted them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKIlc3f-3vo/UBkURA5qmNI/AAAAAAAAAE4/bH0t4A3s3Hw/s1600/GEDC0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wKIlc3f-3vo/UBkURA5qmNI/AAAAAAAAAE4/bH0t4A3s3Hw/s320/GEDC0001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-velLpPrKM54/UBkUh-SDtnI/AAAAAAAAAFA/kQLcsi0G0cI/s1600/GEDC0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-velLpPrKM54/UBkUh-SDtnI/AAAAAAAAAFA/kQLcsi0G0cI/s320/GEDC0003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've collected many collar patterns in different lace styles, and I really want to get back to making more of them instead of motifs or trim (however fun or useful).Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-88345471601257346202012-07-26T07:57:00.001-07:002012-07-26T07:57:26.348-07:00Green & Yellow handspun, handwoven scarf<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I love spinning wildly dyed merino top!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HVyQ-d0wJSU/UBFVel62giI/AAAAAAAAADI/XEIR2EkCjlw/s1600/GEDC0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HVyQ-d0wJSU/UBFVel62giI/AAAAAAAAADI/XEIR2EkCjlw/s320/GEDC0194.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, when I had this spun and two-plyed, I decided there was no way I would spend the time needed to knit with this extremely bright yarn. Instead, after I cut the red and black fabric off the loom, I decided to try my first handspun warp and weft in a simple twill scarf project.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKuM91JRHAk/UBFWNeK4wCI/AAAAAAAAADU/bhnD-7mPoeg/s1600/GEDC0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VKuM91JRHAk/UBFWNeK4wCI/AAAAAAAAADU/bhnD-7mPoeg/s320/GEDC0191.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vAYb6_DmBno/UBFW5d5IA3I/AAAAAAAAADc/anBNxzORgYc/s1600/GEDC0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vAYb6_DmBno/UBFW5d5IA3I/AAAAAAAAADc/anBNxzORgYc/s320/GEDC0192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To my surprise, only one warp thread had a single ply separate. Instead of repairing it, I wove very carefully, moving the split ply where it should be. After wet-finishing, it's impossible to find where this spot is. Other flaws are a result of overspinning so that one weft "caterpillars," but that isn't all that common in the scarf. Note that I hadn't intended this to be weft-faced, but the usual wpi to epi for twill didn't work because hand spun "blooms" more than commercial yarn. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKXZF53AGWA/UBFXjnFqr_I/AAAAAAAAADo/g5zZuPhQYrM/s1600/GEDC0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKXZF53AGWA/UBFXjnFqr_I/AAAAAAAAADo/g5zZuPhQYrM/s320/GEDC0200.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0gVvtiZcr3U/UBFYG27gs4I/AAAAAAAAADw/zFo8qnpFwhI/s1600/GEDC0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0gVvtiZcr3U/UBFYG27gs4I/AAAAAAAAADw/zFo8qnpFwhI/s320/GEDC0203.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Done, it's amazingly soft yet thick enough for a record-breaking cold winter. Overall, I am delighted with the results and will think about what I might spin and weave next. For the most part, I prefer ordering yarn and using it, but this is a good option for top I was going to spin anyway.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AbnoE3NpiFs/UBFY7M3NusI/AAAAAAAAAD8/xmX6gTN-m8k/s1600/GEDC0197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AbnoE3NpiFs/UBFY7M3NusI/AAAAAAAAAD8/xmX6gTN-m8k/s320/GEDC0197.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aweX7d82_n4/UBFZmUS-jVI/AAAAAAAAAEE/9-tVqzcZeiw/s1600/GEDC0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aweX7d82_n4/UBFZmUS-jVI/AAAAAAAAAEE/9-tVqzcZeiw/s320/GEDC0198.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Next, I need to finish an overshot design I started on my tabletop Louet Combo.</span>Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2015098251612737969.post-63414583893890944272012-07-05T14:58:00.004-07:002012-07-05T14:58:46.982-07:00Red and Black<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
During this hotter than the Dust Bowl summer, I've been spending time at the Art Center weaving as much as I can. Of course, my brain isn't always working well. I pulled the lease sticks out before threading the heddles, so I had to thread extremely carefully to keep everything in order. Don't touch those lease sticks until the threading is done! (Luckily, I had been careful so there were no problems in the weaving.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My camera hasn't been cooperating about the shades, but these are made with a bright red and deep black. The first picture is the header with the start of the herringbone pattern, and the second shows more of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipWELHUo1Do/T_YG70cYSgI/AAAAAAAAACU/tt3nMEqbgw8/s1600/GEDC0223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ipWELHUo1Do/T_YG70cYSgI/AAAAAAAAACU/tt3nMEqbgw8/s320/GEDC0223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wv03Y70vlDE/T_YH5RXy60I/AAAAAAAAACc/BcTMyGRb9Ds/s1600/GEDC0230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wv03Y70vlDE/T_YH5RXy60I/AAAAAAAAACc/BcTMyGRb9Ds/s320/GEDC0230.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
When I ran out of black, I used the same red and a different treadling for the solid red, which I really enjoyed weaving. The design is subtle but a lovely broken diamond twill.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eRK81_Xp7U/T_YIpudkoII/AAAAAAAAACo/Nm9TzvohH2k/s1600/GEDC0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eRK81_Xp7U/T_YIpudkoII/AAAAAAAAACo/Nm9TzvohH2k/s320/GEDC0239.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This last picture shows that I was determined to use as much of the warp as possible: it reached within two inches of the heddles! This view gives a more accurate shade of the red.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcn2_7kKkPI/T_YJow1XhdI/AAAAAAAAACw/_oHpic8ZLKE/s1600/GEDC0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcn2_7kKkPI/T_YJow1XhdI/AAAAAAAAACw/_oHpic8ZLKE/s320/GEDC0234.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here it is, draped over another loom! I will probably make two medieval hoods from the red and black, plus purses from the red (and red/black if there's enough left over).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCLOLpVV7kc/T_YL18o3AtI/AAAAAAAAAC8/49sw5DhE7lc/s1600/GEDC0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCLOLpVV7kc/T_YL18o3AtI/AAAAAAAAAC8/49sw5DhE7lc/s320/GEDC0236.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Oh, the thrill of cutting fabric off the loom!<br />
<br />
Err, of course, I had to put the lease sticks through new warp (handspun)--but more later.Plays with Fiberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13823766096760301105noreply@blogger.com0