Spinners and Weavers Open Day Report

I went to the Canberra Spinners and Weavers open day today in Ainslie. I actually had a great time. I watched microwave chemical dyeing, natural dyeing on a stove, drop spindle spinning, spinning wheel spinning, carding, three types of weaving, and got interviewed by a reporter from the Canberra Times. I had a go at the tapestry weaving and drop spindle spinning.

I got the hang of the spindle this time (my second go ever) and now realise that the first time I tried and failed was because the fibre I used was not very good for beginners, not because I was hopeless at it. This time it was much easier and although the yarn I produced um...had character, shall we say, I did do it without dropping the spindle.

The tapestry weaving was fun too. I've been looking at books about weaving recently but it wasn't until I had a frame on my lap and a bobbin in my hand today that I remembered that I had actually done this before as a young child. I had a bright green plastic weaving kit and with the help of my mum I made little rugs for my dolls house. I had completely forgotten this and it was delightful to be reminded.

So I think I have good news for all fellow 'Bitchers who may have been put off by the rumours that the S&W group is not for them. Yes, the demographic is definitely skewed towards the grey end of the scale, but obviously that's only going to change if other people join. I for one thought it was actually a privilege to connect with some very knowledgable women who are part of Canberra's crafting heritage.

Update on the graffiti knitting
Well, it seems the horn-band for the sheep statue was just too tempting for someone. Apparently it was there at 2pm today, but by 3pm it was gone! I'm not too upset. I knew/even hoped it would happen, but not inside 24 hours! Ah, well. I'll take it as a compliment that someone liked it enough to nick it and I hope the new owner likes their new wristband. You never know, I might see it again some day. The J's funky legwarmers and the P's very stylish tree cosy where still there late this afternoon.