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Letter Re: How/Where Can I Learn About Fiber Arts?
Dear Memsahib:
In your
biography, I noticed that you wrote: "I also have taught Fiber
Arts. I can shear a sheep, angora goat, or angora rabbit and wash, card, dye,
spin,
knit,
weave,
(and/or
felt) the wool into socks, mittens, a hat, scarf, or a sweater."
Speaking for those who happen to have a small herd of Angora goats, but
no practical
knowledge of shearing or weaving/knitting, to say nothing about "wash
- card - dye - spin," are there any books you can recommend? Or perhaps,
alternatively, a DVD? Thanks, - Pete M.
The Memsahib Replies: I think hands-on learning is so much
better than a book or DVD for learning fiber art skills. These are truly "hands-on"
tactile skills.
I would recommend you look for a Fiber Guild in your area. These are groups
(mostly women) who get together to learn spinning, knitting, felting, weaving,
etc. Depending
on the guild, they may sponsor workshops with a fee to attend, or there may
be informal lessons at the meetings. You may also find buyers for your
mohair (the fleece
of angora goats) as well as your kids (baby goats, not your children) at
the guild meetings.
The "Spin Off" magazine web site has a link to a
directory of fiber guilds.
Another great resource is your local yarn shop. Our local yarn shop owner
offers classes on knitting and crochet for a nominal cost. She also has spinning
and
felting teachers come in to give workshops several times a year. Maybe your
local yarn shop owner can hook you up. (Pardon the pun.)
