I have alluded to some changes that I would like to make in the coming years on the podcast, particularly recently, and I have been thinking hard about the items that I would like to make. Over the years, I have continuously come back to the idea of wanting to make ‘slow cloth’. When I was younger, my mom and I would head down to Granville Island together for lunch. We’d pock around in the shops and galleries all morning, chatting about inspiration and ideas. My mom is an artist so I’m sure this time was very rewarding for her.
We used to visit the Silk Weaving Studio, which sat behind one of the very popular restaurants. Each time, I was just amazed at the work of the women at the looms. The click and plonk of the working looms was enough to draw me in every time!
This experience of watching working weavers make left me wanting to be a Weaver one day. At the time, I had no idea what that actually meant but as I continue to delve into the world of spinning and making cloth, I am beginning to understand on a deeper level what this may mean for me. There is a part of me that craves making something from start to finish (although the actual fibre preparation step is maybe negotiable in the interest of time and energy). I remember talking to a dear friend of mine about the creation of an item from nothing – only raw materials – and the satisfaction one gets from that process. It is an incredible process to be sure!
As I look to the future, I wonder what my making has in store for me as I engage with materials* like Liz Gipson’s online weaving school, as well as Jane Stafford’s online guild.
*As as aside, is this the future? To learn everything digitally? I sure hope not. I hope that wherever you are, that you have access to at least a few people who can help and support you in your learning. I know I do and I value them immensely!
What would you like to be learning? What has you fired up in your explorations of fibre and textiles? Is there something you want to be learning more about but aren’t at the moment? Please share in the comments – I’m all ears!
I’m trying to research and determine if its reasonable to except to be able to sew simple garments from handwoven fabrics without too much cutting or waste. I was looking for a resource along this vein and haven’t quite hit upon it yet. I see a lot of vests but I guess I was thinking more of bottoms skirts or pants or a simple dress, as an avid sweater knitter, those are the garments I would find most useful.
Yes, I totally agree. That’s what I’d like to be able to make. Weaving Sarah — have you heard of her? has some awesome patterns on Etsy that are PDF downloads. Maybe look into her? SHe’s located in the UK.
In the meantime I found Melissa Hankens on Instagram and she is making brilliant garments from handwoven cloth. Check her out.
I will! Thanks!
The colours in the scarf are divine, is this one you made, dyed/spun/wove?
Thank you! This was the breed and colour study that Katrina dyed then I spun and wove. 😊