Spinning A Little Sunshine In

 

 It is always good to do a spot of spinning in the sunshine! I love to get the spinning wheel out in the garden and work in the good light and fresh air. Rather than the radio or music as I spin, I enjoy  listening to nature's own music of bird song and breeze in the trees.

I spin up the last of my Blue Faced Leicester with Silk tops. It is looking good, I shall be using it for a knitting project later in the year.

 Working at my spinning wheel is very meditative, somehow although staying in the conscious mind absorbed  in the process using my feet on the treadle to turn the wheel and my fingers to work the fibres to produce the thread . I am able to allow my mind to wander freely, be creative and dream.

 I am also much more aware of the colours, energy and life in the garden. The birds, insects, the clouds and taste and smell of the outside. As my craft nourishes my soul enriching me I try to bring something of what I feel and gain from such steady careful work.  

 

 I use natural materials and traditional methods of  hand knitting, hand spinning and hand weaving- So "spinning a little sunshine in" too for good measure makes me smile.

Wood Craft

 Last weekend we went to the May Day Fete in Gurnard. There were lots of rural crafts on show from lace making to wood craft. It great to meet and talk to different crafts people and see their work. There were half a dozen wood turners and makers all producing interesting and lovely items in wood. This chap is doing it the traditional way, foot power! but many others were demonstrating their craft and skill on electric lathes.

 I love these drop spindles, in fact I have a beautiful one made from yew and it is a delight to use, so I'm very happy to recommend  http://thewoodemporium.co.uk/

I spotted this sturdy little stool that had been made from reclaimed and windfall wood. Just perfect to sit and work at my drum carder blending fibres, my spinning wheel and even my loom. It is always special to buy something that has been lovingly made. I understand the connection a maker has with their work and find  pleasure in natural materials and feel it is important to support local artisans. 

My new little seat will be very useful both indoors and out I'm sure!