Wall of Wool

Wall of Wool, a photo by AKPeacecat on Flickr.

A bit closer view of the squishy soft wools, ready to be blended.

My colorful wall

IMG_4224, a photo by AKPeacecat on Flickr.

This pleases me every time I see it!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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!!