My business plans are moving slower than originally anticipated, but I am still excited and motivated to sell my handspun and hand-painted yarns. Stay tuned for the announcement and online store!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Sweet Summertime
It's been a busy few months. I took a trip to North Carolina, and Israel. To top it off, we just bought a sailboat!
My business plans are moving slower than originally anticipated, but I am still excited and motivated to sell my handspun and hand-painted yarns. Stay tuned for the announcement and online store!
My business plans are moving slower than originally anticipated, but I am still excited and motivated to sell my handspun and hand-painted yarns. Stay tuned for the announcement and online store!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Preparing for Valley Guild Fibers Arts Retreat!
This weekend is the bi-annual Fiber Arts Retreat sponsored by the Valley Fiber Arts Guild. For two and a half blissful and busy days, we'll be at a gorgeous lakeside camp, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms (!) and stuff to keep us happy. Spinning some...felting....visiting with friends, destashing, and adding new stuff to the stash. All fun, all the time. I am greatly looking forward to it. I've spent some time organizing my studio, and am now going through items preparing them for sale. I plan to destash a good deal of my stuff in my continuing effort to declutter my space and simplify my life.
Yesterday I arranged my shelving in my weaving room, making space for my magazines, books, and yarns. It looks GOOD. I love all the color and texture. Hopefully it'll be an inspirational space to use once I get all the other cleaning completed.
Here are some photos!
And some rolags I carded awhile ago to make a self-striping yarn:
Yesterday I arranged my shelving in my weaving room, making space for my magazines, books, and yarns. It looks GOOD. I love all the color and texture. Hopefully it'll be an inspirational space to use once I get all the other cleaning completed.
Here are some photos!
And some rolags I carded awhile ago to make a self-striping yarn:
Friday, May 6, 2011
A Link to one of "My Favorite" Blogs.
This blog belongs to my friend Sara. Her family of sheep, dogs, horses, cats, chickens, and honeybees live on Equinox Farm. Her life seems idyllic! I subscribe to her blog posts, and they greet me each day on my Google home page.
This post is from last year, when she sent me my Ashford Traditional spinning wheel. Click on the photo to enlarge it - her paintings are whimsical and fun! The cool thing is, many depict her actual critters.
Very cool!
http://myfavoritesheep.blogspot.com/2010/01/effectivefinally.html
This post is from last year, when she sent me my Ashford Traditional spinning wheel. Click on the photo to enlarge it - her paintings are whimsical and fun! The cool thing is, many depict her actual critters.
Very cool!
http://myfavoritesheep.blogspot.com/2010/01/effectivefinally.html
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Renate Hiller on Fiber Art
This is such a true assessment of fiber art - any art, really, that utilizes the hands. Take a moment to watch this video.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Spinning Wheels
Last night I was attempting to list the wheels that I've owned. I spent a long time going through my photos looking for proof...but alas, many wheels were never photographed. Those that were, will appear on these pages.
Like anything, spinning took me hook, line, and treadle. I became what some would call compulsive about everything to do with spinning. People who know me are not surprised by this character trait. It can be a lot of fun to jump in with both feet! It can also be a little, well...compulsive.
I know I've owned more wheels than many. Which is pretty handy, since I want to teach spinning and help others love the craft. I have first-hand knowledge of many brands and makes of wheels. Of course, spinning wheels are kind of like cars. They all do the same job, but each person has her or his own preferences in style, function, and size.
My favorite wheels are still with me - the others have moved on to new homes. I've regretted selling some. If I could have them back I would! (And I still have a "wish list" of a couple of wheels that I hope to own someday).
Like anything, spinning took me hook, line, and treadle. I became what some would call compulsive about everything to do with spinning. People who know me are not surprised by this character trait. It can be a lot of fun to jump in with both feet! It can also be a little, well...compulsive.
I know I've owned more wheels than many. Which is pretty handy, since I want to teach spinning and help others love the craft. I have first-hand knowledge of many brands and makes of wheels. Of course, spinning wheels are kind of like cars. They all do the same job, but each person has her or his own preferences in style, function, and size.
My favorite wheels are still with me - the others have moved on to new homes. I've regretted selling some. If I could have them back I would! (And I still have a "wish list" of a couple of wheels that I hope to own someday).
Wyatt Pegasus and Schacht 40th Anniversary Matchless
These two wheels make a lovely pair and are amazing machines. The big wheel is the highly sought-after Wyatt Pegasus. Made by Bill Wyatt, who died a few years ago, they are incredibly well-balanced and carefully crafted. Bill was a former bush pilot in Alaska before moving to Texas, and a sweet guy. We spent a lot of time visiting on the phone about spinning wheels and the state of the world. Like other wheel makers, he maintained a waiting list for his wheels. The Pegasus was the most popular model, and I needed on with the flyer on the right. Unfortunately, he died before he got to my name on the list.
Then, I cast my fishing line out on the internet, and a spinner contacted me wanting to sell her wheel. I pounced! The wheel was at the time only set up with a spindle, not with flyer and bobbins. Myles Jakubowski, Mr. Wyatt's apprentice, fashioned a beautiful flyer and bobbins set up for my wheel, and it came to me last year.
The Pegasus is made of mesquite wood and is very regal...and spins like a dream. The drive wheel is 30", and once you start treadling, it moves with very little effort. A work of art and engineering! I am fortunate to have one of these wheels.
The 40th Anniversary Cherry Matchless was produced in limited quantity by Schacht Spindle Company (Boulder, CO). At the time of their production, I talked myself out of purchasing one. But last year I decided that I wanted one and again put out internet feelers. This wheel was brand new, and still in a spinning shop on the east coast. She came to live with me several months ago and I LOVE IT.
Then, I cast my fishing line out on the internet, and a spinner contacted me wanting to sell her wheel. I pounced! The wheel was at the time only set up with a spindle, not with flyer and bobbins. Myles Jakubowski, Mr. Wyatt's apprentice, fashioned a beautiful flyer and bobbins set up for my wheel, and it came to me last year.
The Pegasus is made of mesquite wood and is very regal...and spins like a dream. The drive wheel is 30", and once you start treadling, it moves with very little effort. A work of art and engineering! I am fortunate to have one of these wheels.
The 40th Anniversary Cherry Matchless was produced in limited quantity by Schacht Spindle Company (Boulder, CO). At the time of their production, I talked myself out of purchasing one. But last year I decided that I wanted one and again put out internet feelers. This wheel was brand new, and still in a spinning shop on the east coast. She came to live with me several months ago and I LOVE IT.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Pomegranate Blossom
This is a Navajo-plied bobbin of four ounces of gorgeous Polworth wool, from Intothewhirled Fiber Art. She if offering colorways each month. This is "Pomegranate Blossom", the second in the series. It's really great to follow her group on Ravelry and see how different everyone's yarns are!
Some Yarnie Goodness
Here is a photo showcasing many skeins of handspun yarn. I created many of these over the course of two years recreational spinning, and one week of intense production spinning! I have so much to learn, but one thing I know for certain is how happy I feel when I see all this yarn.
Time to Post Some Photos
I have several days of blog posts to make up, so I decided to do.just.one and see how it goes! Maybe it'll put me in the mood to get many more done.
I have been very busy lately with my fiber and supplies. I've been spinning every day, sorting through the PILES downstairs, getting rid of unwanted furniture, buying some items for my booth at the upcoming Saturday market this summer...whew! LOTS going on.
Several days ago I spent hours in the mother-in-law apartment (my studio!) cleaning and getting set up for some serious production. I still have a long way to go, but I am really happy with how it is shaping up. You need to understand, that my "studio" has always been a dumping ground for boxes of stuff, supplies, piles, etc...and has never been organized. Now that I am starting a small business it's time to do it!
The studio, or apartment, is the bottom level of our home. Technically it is a one bedroom apartment, but in actuality there are two rooms - one is finished, one is not. The unfinished room is my husband's workshop. At least it will be once we get it set up! Here he'll be able to putter and work on his projects, like the BMW restoration in the garage (right outside the workshop door!) and building that Martin guitar he bought the kit for years ago.
I digress. To get into the studio, you can either come downstairs from the house into the garage, and then through his workshop and into the studio. Or, you can enter from the outside. Once in the studio, you'll find a kitchen with microwave, cooktop and oven, fridge, sink, and cupboards. There is also a bathroom with a bathtub (hooray!) and a washer and dryer. There is space for a dinette, too, or any small table. One large bedroom, and a living room area complete the studio. Oh, and just off the living room is a patio area with double doors. It is south facing so it gets a lot of light when the sun is shining.
I have been very busy lately with my fiber and supplies. I've been spinning every day, sorting through the PILES downstairs, getting rid of unwanted furniture, buying some items for my booth at the upcoming Saturday market this summer...whew! LOTS going on.
Several days ago I spent hours in the mother-in-law apartment (my studio!) cleaning and getting set up for some serious production. I still have a long way to go, but I am really happy with how it is shaping up. You need to understand, that my "studio" has always been a dumping ground for boxes of stuff, supplies, piles, etc...and has never been organized. Now that I am starting a small business it's time to do it!
The studio, or apartment, is the bottom level of our home. Technically it is a one bedroom apartment, but in actuality there are two rooms - one is finished, one is not. The unfinished room is my husband's workshop. At least it will be once we get it set up! Here he'll be able to putter and work on his projects, like the BMW restoration in the garage (right outside the workshop door!) and building that Martin guitar he bought the kit for years ago.
I digress. To get into the studio, you can either come downstairs from the house into the garage, and then through his workshop and into the studio. Or, you can enter from the outside. Once in the studio, you'll find a kitchen with microwave, cooktop and oven, fridge, sink, and cupboards. There is also a bathroom with a bathtub (hooray!) and a washer and dryer. There is space for a dinette, too, or any small table. One large bedroom, and a living room area complete the studio. Oh, and just off the living room is a patio area with double doors. It is south facing so it gets a lot of light when the sun is shining.
The Country Classics Dye Rack
All these dyes are patiently waiting for me. As soon as it warms up a bit more, I plan on doing some dye work. I have several jars of each non-toxic color.
Next to the dye is my Patrick Green Triple Picker. This is a device that looks like something from a medieval torture chamber, but in reality it's used to fluff apart the wool to make it easier for carding and spinning.
Pat Green Triple-drum Supercard
This carder is AMAZING. I got it for a steal - they are almost never available used and when they are, they're usually four times or more what I paid. No kidding! It works beautifully.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Woolee Winder!
I splurged on a device to help speed up my production of yarn. It's called a "Woolee Winder" and is made for many different wheels. I bought one for my Schacht Matchless wheel, in cherry to match. It operates as a level wind system, like the winder on a fishing reel. As I spin yarn, and it is pulled onto the bobbin, the Woolee Winder lays it out evenly. Not only does it look neat and tidy, it saves me the time of having to stop every few minutes and move the yarn from hook to hook.
Now, this invention is pretty darn cool. But I do have to say, it is a little noisy! Not terrible, but I really enjoy the near silence of spinning on my big Wyatt wheel, so the clatter of the WW gears is a bit noticeable. I am, however, really pleased with the speed and function! Photos to come!
Now, this invention is pretty darn cool. But I do have to say, it is a little noisy! Not terrible, but I really enjoy the near silence of spinning on my big Wyatt wheel, so the clatter of the WW gears is a bit noticeable. I am, however, really pleased with the speed and function! Photos to come!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Beautiful weather! For cleaning HOUSE?
Ok, well, the weather is absolutely beautiful today. Alas, my house...not so much. Therefore, today is a cleaning day! Kids are at school and I have NO APPOINTMENTS or anything to do until this evening when I leave for the Fiber N'Ice "Spring Fling" in Wasilla. I am taking a three-day Ravenstail weaving course. Very exciting!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Life happens...not "to" me, but "for" me. What a gift!
Sometimes we get caught in a wave of feeling incomplete, or unfulfilled, or frustrated, or frightened. I want to encourage you to feel happy with where you are, what you have, who you love, and what you do. Lately many exciting things have happened for me. I can't say they have happened TO me, but rather FOR me. What makes the difference? The incredible brain and how it chooses to interpret circumstance and outside events.
This year, with the return of the daylight, I am experiencing a re-awakening of creative energy and belief in MY ability to make positive things happen in my life. What a cool concept! And with that change in my internal belief, for some magical reason, others around me are more friendly, welcoming, and caring. Funny, when you believe in yourself and shuck off the bullsh*t messages playing in your negative mind, what can happen for you. I say for you, because this is something that you can control.
If I'd listened to the negative messages that persistently try to influence me, well, where would that leave me? Nothing would have changed in my perception of my ability to succeed.
I have chosen instead to "ride the wave" of hopeful, optimistic feelings. And you know what? I am already successful. How cool is that!
This year, with the return of the daylight, I am experiencing a re-awakening of creative energy and belief in MY ability to make positive things happen in my life. What a cool concept! And with that change in my internal belief, for some magical reason, others around me are more friendly, welcoming, and caring. Funny, when you believe in yourself and shuck off the bullsh*t messages playing in your negative mind, what can happen for you. I say for you, because this is something that you can control.
If I'd listened to the negative messages that persistently try to influence me, well, where would that leave me? Nothing would have changed in my perception of my ability to succeed.
I have chosen instead to "ride the wave" of hopeful, optimistic feelings. And you know what? I am already successful. How cool is that!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Getting the Ball Rolling
Today I am starting to work on the idea of selling my art. So many different avenues to explore - internet, craft shows, a working studio, a retail shop...it's hard to know where this will take me but I am very excited! I have a lot of learning to do but thankfully I have many friends who have taken similar steps. I love the concept of promoting craft and individual artists.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
A New Chapter in Fiber Arts!
Today I decided it was time to start my business, Praxis Fiber Arts. I have a business license and am putting plans into place to have studio space downtown, and a booth at our summer market on specific Saturdays.
In typical Cathy fashion I am diving in head first. But it feels like the right thing to do at this time and I know I will be successful! I've spent several years learning and practicing my art of spinning (and less so weaving, but yeah, that too!) and I believe I can take it public now.
My level of excitement is high. While all the nuts and bolts are not in place yet, I am sure they'll come together. My daughter is going to help with the webpage design, sign/logo design, and will probably go into fiber arts as well.
Wish me luck!!
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