|
Wonder Van |
This time last year at Wonder Wool Wales we had the pleasure of sun and heat. Builth Wells on 28th April 2012 was wet, stormy and very cold. The wool fest is always worth a visit because not only is there so much to see and buy, but it is a good place for independent producers and makers to showcase their products.
|
More batts please
|
The Pembrokeshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers had a stall at the show, selling a variety of members' yarns and fibres, plus woven and knitted items. They also demonstrated how a carding drum can be used to obtain combed fleece or "batts" by placing scoured (washed) fleece in to a drum machine. The drum is covered with tiny metal spikes which then comb the fleece as the handle on the drum is turned. The batts produced by this method of carding is then ready for spinning or felting. Hand carders can be used in this process but the drum method speeds up both production and increases quantity. Industrialisation on a small scale for the home producer.
|
Guild yarn |
The coming summer season is a busy one for the Guild, as there are numerous shows and fairs in Pembrokeshire where locals can come and see us in action. We look forward to meeting you.
|
Hand made books
|
Although the show was mainly about yarn and fibre, there were other items on display, including hand made books. Making books, albums or journals is something I want to do at some stage and I just loved these.
|
Alpaca Flag
|
No doubt we are going to see plenty of flags around for the Jubilee and Olympics - Jubolympics anyone. This flag was knitted with alpaca yarn. Not sure I have the time to knit something so large.