Friday, December 28, 2012

New Year's Resolutions

     The first real snow of the season 12/26/12


     When I started this blog, I thought it would be a good place to share lots of interesting things about fiber. All things fiber! From the sheep that grow the wool that makes the roving that spinners use to make the yarn that the weaver uses to make the rug. In a nutshell. Anyone familiar with this occupation understands the dynamics involved in making a good rug, or what ever the final product is. Whether it is a rag rug or a wool rug there are a lot of factors at play.


Colors that inspire.

     I am a weaver of rag rugs, working on a 1940's model Union Loom, who likes to explore other avenues of rug making. Those other avenues include different methods, tools, looms, and materials and I am also very nosey about what other weavers are taking off of their looms! There are so many projects in my head that need to come to fruitition, it is maddening. I also have so many looms that need attention. They seem to grow lonely just sitting while I bang away on my old Union.


Colors that soothe.

     I am also a spinner. Again, I want to explore and learn all there is to learn about spinning. I have only scratched the surface, I am sure. So many fibers to try, blends to make and techniques to learn. And what about all of those fascinating wheels?! I know I have shown you my Ashford but I have more to show even some that aren't mine! And like the looms, they seem so lonely while I work primarily on that little junk store find.

What, you expected more plants?



     I am also a fiber processor. The weaving lead to spinning which in turn, lead to processing. For now, we only wash and card fiber into roving, small batts and clouds and offer hand dyeing and blending. We are dedicated to the hand spinner. For the future, we dream of spinning frames so we can turn your lovely locks into a usable yarn for those of you who do not spin. Our goal is to produce a yarn that will make the animal who grew the fiber, proud.


One of mom's Glass Drop Spindles.

     Yes, these are our goals here at the mill. I also have some simple resolutions this year.
     First off, I want to say, I generally do not make resolutions but felt the need this year. My life has become too chaotic, too messy and far too unorganized. I have left things too unattended for too long and it is time to get back on track.
     So, this year.........my big resolutions for the up coming year........

1. Organize my weaving supplies and make some shelving to house it all on.
2. Organize my spinning stash and find a way to store it safetly with the ability to find what I need when I need it.
3. Organize my household. This includes the basement!
4. Organize a schedule so my time can be put to better use and I can find more time to spend with family and friends.
5. Organize my online activities. This includes, my Etsy store as well as this blog!
6. Delve into all of those non-fibery projects I have been longing to attempt.

     Now, that is a very nice start. I am not saying I will be able to accomplish all of those things, but it will make a good guide to follow.
     The way I look at organization is "if I am organized well enough, then I should be able to handle things that come up unexpectedly a little better".    
    
 

What are your resolutions this year?


My very best to all of you.
                          ~Vickie

2 comments:

  1. VICKIE, I WAS READING THE SPINNERS COTTAGE BLOG. I SEE SO MUCH PASSION IN YOUR WORK. I FEEL IT IN YOUR EVERY SENTENCE. THEN IT HIT ME. THIS IS WHATS WRONG IN AMERICA TODAY. TOO MANY PEOPLE FOR WHAT EVER REASON, JUST DO NOT HAVE PASSION IN THEIR LIVES. A DESIRE TO LEARN SOMETHING ORIGINAL. GO AGAINST THE STATUS QUO. PUT THE I PHONE DOWN AND REALLY SPEND YOUR TIME THAT IS DRIVEN BY PURE PASSION. NO MATTER IT BE SPINNING YARN, HELPING SOMEONE WHO IS IN NEED, OR STARTING YOUR FIRST FLOWER GARDEN, DO IT WITH A PASSION THAT RUBS OFF ON ANYONE THAT SEES IT. I SEE AND FEEL THIS PASSION IN THE SPINNERS COTTAGE. THANK YOU FOR THIS GIFT.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for your wonderful comment. I hope I inspired you just a little to feed your own passion.
      ~Vickie

      Delete