May 14, 2012

Woven

From a very young age, I've loved hand-crafted things. I'll admit that I always dreamed of being an artist myself and dabbled in all sorts of forms (you name, I tried it). The thing is, I'm a bit too structured in my approach to art -- it's not that I think one has to be messy or purely spontaneous to create art, but I do think one needs to allow abandon to be part of the process. I guess that's where fiber arts comes in for me. While we can play around with textures and colors and size, we still need to follow a particular path that will help lead us to the finished object, whether it's one that we wear or one that we play with. After all, toys as much as cardigans require proper construction, right? So, my knitting is satisfying a deep need to use my hands and to make art. 




One fiber art that I've dreamed of trying but haven't had the chance to (yet) is hand weaving. It's a process that I know I would absolutely love, but I also know that it's a practice which requires ample space, time, and great patience. 


I've been an admirer of AnnieKnits' handwoven scarves/shawls for quite some time, and the other day, I had the chance to purchase one of her gorgeous handwoven items on sale. 



This scarf was woven from a blend of silk and cotton. The weight and drape is perfect as it holds up when looped around my neck or pulled across my shoulders. It was a huge splurge, and I feel a bit decadent for having treated myself but it's worth every single penny. After all, being a hand-knitter, I know what it takes to create something, and I am quite in awe at the beauty of Anne-Marie's incredible work. I'll be wearing my scarf with deep pleasure for years to come.



10 comments:

  1. I COMPLETELY understand what you mean when you say you feel too structured! At last someone agrees with me! Whenever I try, say drawing something, I always find myself having to really think about where everything goes and I'm always disappointed by the result. I agree knitting provides a great outlet for creativity. I seriously love that scarf, super pretty!

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  2. Your scarf is gorgeous! A true luxury item, since it was handmade. Have you ever thought about trying Rigid Heddle weaving? It's not as flexible as a table or floor loom, but it's a good place to start. I enjoy weaving too - but the actual weaving is only about a third of the whole process! I'm not so crazy about winding the warp or warping the loom, so I very rarely weave any more.

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  3. " a bit too structured in my approach to art -- " Evelyn, you've put words to my own feeling toward some of my own attempts; e.g., free-motion quilting. Sometimes the free flow is missing.

    Your gift to yourself is truly lovely and I know you'll 'wrap' yourself with it at each glance.

    hugs

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  4. Very pretty! I always feel a little guilty, too, when I splurge, but eventually I usually come to the conclusion that it was the right choice.

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  5. Rigid Heddle weaving is quite easy and affordable. You only need a length of space for warping the loom (loading it) and once that part is finished you're off to weaving! I think I'm going to end up weaving scarves/shawls out of the homespun yarn I have that is too difficult/annoying to knit/crochet with. As for your scarf it was a well deserved splurge. :]

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  6. I'd love to try hand weaving too. The fabrics that come off the looms are exquisitely beautiful. You shouldn't feel guilty about the splurge - it's not like you do it every day. Think of it as an investment into someone's craft, and a gesture to a more sustainable economy.

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  7. I am so glad you like your scarf! It always makes me happy when people understand the (pleasurable) work that goes into a handmade product. As I say, wear often and enjoy!

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  8. I had a little yarn loom back in the day. What fun that was.
    That is such a beautiful scarf.

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  9. It's a great color. Isn't it a pleasure to buy something handmade when you don't have the skill to make it yourself?

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