Fiber Aesthetic

From Eventless to Eventful

2010-03-28T15:43:00.002-05:00

The past week was quite the roller coaster. I spent half the week away from home, hoping to determine if my cat has been the cause of almost a year's worth of constant allergies and sporadic results with antihistamines. After three days away, it was determined that yes, our beloved orange tabby is indeed the culprit...unless it is some rare mold or fungus that is specific only to our house. Alas, this week we must pack up our little tabby and send her off in the hopes that some other lucky family will someday soon adopt her and make her part of their family. She would be a most welcome addition to anyone without allergies.

I returned home only to endure 4 days of a migraine headache, 2 days of being unable to keep anything in my stomach, and eventually a trip to the ER for an IV. But alas, I have returned to normal. And thankfully so!

The Kielbasa Apple Pasta bake a couple of weeks ago was a smashing success at our house. Especially to DH who had a heaping plateful two nights in a row. Good thing, too, as the recipe yields enough to feed an army. This week I will be attempting Kung Pow Shrimp and finally breaking in the wok we received as a wedding gift more than 5 years ago. Hopefully, this won't be the last time it gets use around here! I will keep you posted...

Burning at Both Ends

2010-03-10T07:40:00.003-06:00

I have both looms threaded. I am making up for lost time. Here are my current WIPs:

My first attempt at Overshot, and it appears to be a bit over-sized as well. Medallion pattern over grey and raspberry tabby.

Plain weave on my rigid heddle using some amazing handspun from ChopstixWaits.etsy.com.

Still Here...

2010-03-08T12:20:00.002-06:00

And perhaps this explains my lack of activity lately.

I am feeling a bit better these days and am hoping to have more FOs up soon! Additionally, as I have been feeling like a less-than-stellar mother and wife, I have decided that to make it up to them I will attempt one new recipe a week. No. Not Julia's. Just whatever I happen to stumble upon in one of my lady magazines that sounds yummy.

Keep your eyes peeled as I plan to keep you apprised of any that work out particularly well. To start this week: Kielbasa and Apple Pasta Bake.

Knit. Not woven.

2010-01-28T10:28:00.001-06:00

IMG_8678, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I did it! I finally got through a knitting project! The first since I finished DH's anniversary sweater (2 months late). Feather and fan lace scarf, triple wide and super long; striped in my favorite shades of Malabrigo merino worsted.

Wove in about a billion ends. Phew!

In other news, I recently became the proud owner of a fab, old Ashford spinning wheel! Hope to learn how to use it soon.

Little Ponchos!

2010-01-22T09:55:00.002-06:00

IMG_8653, originally uploaded by myfinn.

It took me a while, but I finally finished Christmas gifts for my twin nieces. I insisted on making them something "a mano", but I simply cannot finish any knitting projects lately!

Woven, of course, in my favorite 32 Flavors. And wonder of wonders, they fit both my 17 mo and my 3 yo!

El Cielo

2010-01-22T09:54:00.001-06:00

IMG_8618, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I am all about the sky blues lately. I absolutely love this one! Again, loosely handwoven in tabby on my rigid heddle. So soft!

Super-Fine

2010-01-22T09:52:00.001-06:00

IMG_8646, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Here it is! My first 20 dpi scarf, in my own handpainted lace weight yarn. It is so light and airy!

Hello?

2010-01-19T17:22:00.004-06:00

Is anybody out there? Sorry it has been a while. I have been sort of sapped of creativity lately. I am trying, and trying and trying super-duper hard to get back into the knitting, but it seems that every time I start a new project I get about a 5th into it and come to a standstill. It is infuriating! But on the flip side, I have my weaving to turn to. And with two looms, I have been keeping those puppies quite busy lately.

I had a renaissance of sorts with the rigid heddle weaving. You just can't get as creative and you can't play with texture and color as easily on my Wolf Pup! In the pursuit of the perfect spring scarf I produced this:

And this:
Both are plain weave on my rigid heddle and hand fulled. The latter also has a ruffle edge that was made by removing about 7 or so warp ends from each selvage.

And just this afternoon I finished the finest cheesecloth of a scarf that I have ever made using my own handpainted lace weight. I just had to try out my new 20 dpi reed for the Wolf Pup that is (I think) as high as they go for this loom. I will get pics up once it is dry.

And next? I am hoping to finally use up a bunch of Fleece Artist yarn that I got about two years ago, on a cap-sleeve raglan pullover. And then, if I persevere through my project impatience, I have an idea to replicate this:
Seen at Garnethill.com, only in a sleeveless version. Hmmmm......

Seafoam Hand-fulled Scarf

2010-01-04T12:58:00.001-06:00

IMG_8456, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I was thinking about keeping this but I am not so sure...

It would make a great transitional scarf for spring. Lovely, pale colorway and lacey open weave to boot!

Wish me luck! I think I am going for a pixie cut tomorrow!! In the middle of winter-I'm nuts!

Good Morning! Stashbuster Poncho

2009-12-24T10:12:00.001-06:00

IMG_8367, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I recently worked out an arrangement with a jeweler who is melting down a bunch of my old gold to make me a custom mother’s ring. She asked for a woven poncho in exchange for labor. The one I made for her was my first, and I really loved the way it turned out. So much so that I decided that I wanted to make my own. And it was the perfect way to use up a bunch of odd balls of handspun multicolored yarn from my stash! The warp is mostly my own handpainted yarn in a pink, turquoise and purple colorway.

Merry Christmas all!

Hitting my Stride. And Craving Chocolate.

2009-12-12T19:19:00.003-06:00

I began yarn painting (dyeing) this past week. SOOOOO much fun! A bit messy, and imperfect (for now) but I am absolutely loving the way the painted warp looks woven up! Here are a few pictures of my first (I call this one "Embers").

Ahhhhhhhhhh

2009-12-05T09:47:00.003-06:00

Much better.

This is what I have been going for: chunky, over-sized, undulating twill patterns. And finding the sett that would achieve a balanced weave was eluding me. Through trial and error I finally figured out how to make it "work".

DH tells me that I will look back on this some day and laugh. He seems to think that I have a lot of evolving to do.

Water, water, everywhere...

2009-12-03T19:08:00.003-06:00

Here I am enjoying some delicious pan dulce that I managed to track down yesterday in an effort to satisfy my craving. A very absurd contrast to how I am feeling at the moment.

I have reached a very unwelcome artists block. What? You ask? Didn't I just become the owner of a 4 shaft floor loom that would open a whole world of possibilities to me???

I did my friends. And that is the problem.

When I got into rigid heddle weaving it was a new and novel craft. Everything I made was amazing! After a while I got a sense of what I liked and what I didn't like about it and had a few dead-end thread-ups; all part of the learning process. And with my rigid heddle I feel as though I have entered a realm where I am no longer figuring out what I am doing with it. On the contrary, I feel as though I have complete creative control and can conceptualize projects long before my yarn touches the loom. And now add this new machine to the mix...

I feel like I should just get it! And to an extent I do. I know how to thread patterns, I get the treadling, but the past few projects I completed were only half-length because I didn't realize that twill could take up so much yarn! And then, combining yarns of different gauges just doesn't work the same in twill/patterns as it did in tabby on my rigid heddle. And worse! I think that to achieve the "look" I am going for I may have to invest in a new reed which isn't cheap.

The past week I have made out like a bandit! I have swapped for so much amazing yarn! I have even bought quite a bit expecting it to work for me, but have threaded and unwoven, started and restarted so many times I am afraid that it might never work for me.

Perhaps I was putting the cart before the horse. But who can blame me when I have churned out nearly 100 FOs, handwoven, already?! I should be able to sit down in front of this thing and write jazz! Alas, I think maybe I need to take a break. At the very least I need to stop buying yarn. And somehow, some way, this needs to come together for me. Help me, Oprah, I need my "Aha" moment...

Pan Dulce!

2009-12-02T08:19:00.001-06:00

Pan Dulce!, originally uploaded by Decayla.

Christmas time makes me think of the sweet breads we would have for breakfast before a day of tamale making. I miss tamales. I miss pan dulce.

New 4 Shaft Projects

2009-11-25T08:46:00.004-06:00

Here they are! My very first Wolf Pup project was the blue/purple diamond twill scarf. The yarn is a pima cotton and tencel blend that has a fantastic drape and sheen. I discovered a few pattern flaws here and there, but hey! It was my first project; I think I am allowed ;). So, obviously I am keeping this one for myself.

And then I was dying to try 32 Flavors in a pattern, so I found this undulating twill pattern in my Handweaver's Pattern Directory. I decided to reverse direction about halfway through, just to see what happens, and holey moley! I ended up with a set of eyes (first, second and "third") in the middle. I think I will call this one "Lucky Stripes".

Inspired by the spontaneous development in this pattern, I threaded up another sticking more or less with twill threading and played around until I found a design I liked. That one is in-progress, but I will post as soon as it is finished.

Striptastic Vest

2009-11-24T17:36:00.004-06:00

Sorry I have been MIA. I got my new Wolf Pup on Saturday and am in heaven! I am even working on an improvised twill pattern right now...

About the vest: I decided that I needed a sweater vest and nothing I was finding online was doing it for me. So I improvised this design. I frogged two beautiful projects that weren’t being worn or used and repurposed them into this stripe-happy vest that I will surely wear. Even if it isn’t quite as lovely as the others were :(.

The unique striping pattern is somewhat arbitrary but mostly a unique result of using the Noro Taiyo. Fab yarn! Overall, I am pleased.

PS. Sorry about the dim photos. That is the best we could do this late in the day. I will post new pics of 4-shaft projects soon. Gotta capture them in the daylight.

I Promised to Share

2009-11-14T09:14:00.003-06:00

So here it is, my very own 32 Flavors scarf. I threaded a whole bunch of purple into the warp (my favorite color) as well as a little bit of sparkle. Not too much! I wore it the other day to a yarn store that I have been frequenting for over 6 years and for the FIRST time I was acknowledged and they even were looking at my site before I left the store (thanks to this scarf).

Flattered, Honored and Humbled

2009-11-12T14:50:00.001-06:00

Steph of Rivulette gave me quite the compliment and shout-out on her blog here. I would be glad to make more of these. Obviously.

I'm Super

2009-11-09T16:02:00.003-06:00

I don't know if I should be worried that I had such a productive weekend. That was probably my last chance to get out and enjoy nice weather until next spring, yet I managed to get 3 scarves woven! I believe my sudden voracious appetite may be due in part to learning that I am soon to be the owner of a Schacht Wolf Pup loom! Four times the possibilities of what I have done on my rigid heddle, and I have only scratched the surface with that!

32 Flavors

Twinkle

Of the three, one was a custom order from Steph of RivuletteCraft.etsy.com. I have worked quite a bit with her 32 Flavors (probably my most favorite yarn in the world) and was quite flattered when she recently requested a scarf woven in her own 32 Flavors. Get your own 32 Flavors yarn in her shop, or visit my shop for other scarves made with 32 Flavors yarn. The other was Twinkle, a very soft and feminine plaid with a bit of sparkle. And the last is my very own 32 Flavors scarf that I will be posting pictures of...sometime, I guess. Onward and upward.

You Just Made My Day

2009-11-05T16:13:00.001-06:00

Just found this convo in my inbox. I am truly, truly flattered, humbled and blessed:

Hi from beautiful North Carolina!
I looked all over your beautiful handwoven scarves today and just had to say WOW!
Your work is beautiful and I loved the close-up pics especially. I'm getting into
weaving soon and I can't wait. There is a Cricket loom being assembled in SC and
I'll be meeting the dealer next Sunday to pick it up and have my first lesson.

I've wanted to weave since I was a camp counselor while in college at a girls'
camp in the NC mountains. They had an entire cabin filled with looms! It was my
job to help the girls hand finish the items that they wove. Recently I saw a weaver
at work in Sparta NC and remembered my desire to learn to weave.....so now at age
62 I'm finally getting around to it! I'm starting out on the small Cricket rigid heddle
loom, then maybe I'll graduate to something bigger.

Your work is a real inspiration to someone like me! Thank you!

Barter or Trade, Give and Get

2009-11-02T08:57:00.002-06:00

Because there is no greater pleasure than giving someone the guilt-free thrill of owning and using something that I made with my own two hands. And because there isn't a whole lot one can "buy" with a bucket full of handwoven scarves, my new shop announcement reads:

Dos Palomas is committed to making this upcoming holiday season as affordable and accessible to everyone as possible in this challenging economy.

So, name your price! Or better still name your currency. Are you a talented baker? Do you make adorable baby clothes or fab jewelry? Nothing ventured, nothing gained...

Meet Inga

2009-10-23T14:34:00.001-05:00

IMG_7711, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Inga is my first attempt at fair isle knitting. Sure, there are some tension issues here and there, but the nice thing about this pattern is that the damask design is so intricate that it almost doesn't matter! I love it and I think that I am addicted to color knitting!

Clasped

2009-10-07T17:08:00.003-05:00

Meet "Taos", my first attempt at clasped weaving. I used some gorgeous handspun from Marion on etsy in a colorway that is more subtle than I am used to and really has a southwestern feel in this context.
In my wildest daydreams I escape my northern environs and flee for the desert. There I can weave in the open air on a Spanish-tiled terrace of a sprawling adobe hacienda with only the endless and breathtaking desert as my backdrop. Just like Georgia did.

On a side note, my husband thinks that I could have a lucrative career writing product descriptions for the J. Peterman catalog.

And that reminds me...

2009-10-05T17:57:00.007-05:00

MY design. Not TGDNE's

Of this very true story:

Once a couple of years ago, on a whim, I suddenly had the urge to design some little 3 dimensional hand knit pears. You can see my original post about this design here. It was, as I thought at the time, one of those true "eureka" moments as an artist where the notion wasn't inspired by anything but my sudden urge to create and my very original idea.

Those pears were received very well by people, and I absolutely loved them myself, so I went on a sort of pear-knitting binge. I was having so much fun whipping those up and making little stems and leaves, and eventually different sizes!

One day I went into my LYS to buy some more pear yarn. I excitedly started telling the shop owner all about my very clever project, after which she directed me to a recent issue of a knitting magazine with HAND KNIT PEARS on the cover. Designed by Nicky Epstein. And I remember thinking "that goddamned Nicky Epstein." I was crushed!

Though to be honest, I liked my design much better. I thought they had a more realistic shape and were just cuter overall. But there was some part of me that began to question if it was truly my original idea. I started to think that maybe I had seen that cover somewhere and it got filed away into my subconscious until one day it bubbled up to the surface, seemingly out of nowhere. I mean...because, this is Nicky Effing Epstein were talking about here. I had only been knitting for what? 4 years? How could I possibly have come up with this genius idea on my own?!

In the time since I have seen many other approximations to my own knitted pears, and part of me thinks "Holy crap! I have been copied!" But after what happened to me in my LYS I could never be sure. And bottom line, I could never complete with TGDNE even if I wanted to.

Where does it begin and where does it end?

2009-10-05T17:13:00.003-05:00

I read a post on another designer's blog recently about the issue of imitation. This subject is something that I (like practically every other artist) has struggled with at some point or other. But now after reading this post and comments I am truly confused about where imitation begins. And, perhaps more importantly, is anything, any design or object style or technique, truly original? And can it really and truly be claimed as the artists original work alone?

My mother-in-law used to tell me when I would question my work "there is nothing new under the sun" and often that was all I needed to reassure me that my work is indeed my own and not a copy of someone else. There is one scenario that stands out, though, where I am not so sure.

Inspired by an item I discovered made by another artist in another medium, I replicated the shape of a certain accessory. It was in another color, it was in a completely different material, and I am sure created by a completely different method. However, I just couldn't get past it. To this day I still feel very much like a fraud for it. And this is even despite all the differences I listed in addition to finding through some research that the shape was not original per se, but a recreation of a style that was popular decades ago.

So then, was I imitating the subject of my inspiration, or the first person to create the particular shape of this accessory more than 50 years ago?

Knitting and weaving are crafts that have been around almost as long as man. But who invented them? Were they invented simultaneously in completely different parts of the world by people who never crossed paths? When I knit or weave am I imitating the art of a "person" who lived thousands or maybe even millions of years ago?

What about techniques? Mobius knitting is rather new in the realm of knitting. If I knit a mobius am I imitating the first person to discover how to knit a mobius? Would I be a fraud if I knit a mobius of my own "design" and tried to sell it?

I recently discovered a new technique of weaving called "clasped weaving" that I am really anxious to try out. Examples I have seen by other weavers are simply stunning and I cannot wait to try my hand at it. BUT, if I do will I be a copycat? A fraud? And what happens when I graduate to a harness loom and start working patterns (houndstooth, chevron, twill, etc.) that have been around for a century or more? Someone invented those patterns, those designs, and now am I to assume that every time I see something woven in one of these patterns that the artist is not an artist at all but instead someone who could not come up with their own just as interesting "pattern" and is now an imitator? And by that measure, even if one were to come up with their own pattern, wouldn't they be imitating the person who first determined that patterns could be devised for weaving? What about the first person who ever wove? Where does it begin and where does it end?

For now I am seriously confused. Situations like this do nothing to reaffirm my confidence in myself as an artist, but rather make me question my own validity and feel positively unoriginal. Sigh.

Union Terrace Chairs in Line

2009-09-30T10:31:00.001-05:00

Union Terrace Chairs in Line, originally uploaded by Menacing Buddha.

Just because I love this picture. And I love the terrace.

Gail in Orchid

2009-09-16T12:54:00.001-05:00

IMG_7305, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Like a crazy person, I recently decided that I MUST knit a super complicated triangular lace shawl. After looking at some free patterns on Ravelry, I decided that Gail (aka Nightsongs) was the prettiest. There was a bit of filling in of blanks involved...the pattern is definitely not for beginners. But all in all I am very pleased with the results!

All Work and No Play

2009-09-12T18:13:00.001-05:00

IMG_7244, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Makes Melissa deliriously happy!

IMG_7229

2009-09-12T18:12:00.003-05:00

IMG_7229, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_7240

2009-09-12T18:12:00.001-05:00

IMG_7240, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_7251

2009-09-12T18:11:00.001-05:00

IMG_7251, originally uploaded by myfinn.

For Linda's Hope

2009-08-19T17:17:00.001-05:00

IMG_7001, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Linda is a sweet gal I have known since elementary school. Recently she was diagnosed with a second bout of leukemia. She will be receiving a bone marrow transplant later this year, but as a mom with a couple of sweet girls at home it will be difficult for her to pay for her medical care.

A benefit in her honor (Linda's Hope) will be held at Hiawatha Bar in Racine, WI on Sept. 5th where and when this shawl will be auctioned. If you wish to donate an item for silent auction, please contact me and I will put you in contact with Linda for more information.

Not For Sale

2009-08-19T17:14:00.001-05:00

IMG_6991, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Finally, after months of weaving scarf, after shawl, after scarf, after shawl, I decided to make one for myself. During a trip to my LYS I picked up three skeins of Malabrigo in my "dream palette" if you will...And I am ecstatic with the results. Not only is it supremely beautiful, but also unbelievably soft and squashy. I cannot wait for winter!

I am a little behind on Everything

2009-08-10T18:36:00.001-05:00

IMG_6785, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I don't know why but I am on an artistic roll right now. I can't seem to lay off the needles or the loom! Good thing is I am completing projects!!! Love that. Downside is that a lot of other things around my house (cleaning, changing diapers, etc) are not being done as often or as thoroughly as they probably should.

About Kim: I ordered this kit (3 week custom dye job) weeks before starting WW and now 20+ lbs lighter I would probably fit at least a size smaller. But hey! Who doesn't love a big slouchy warm sweater when the weather gets cooler, right?

IMG_6781

2009-08-10T18:33:00.003-05:00

IMG_6781, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Hey, how do you like my light switch?

2009-08-10T18:33:00.001-05:00

IMG_6780, originally uploaded by myfinn.

My Perl Grey Kim sweater that I actually finished a while ago but am just posting now.

I am in love

2009-08-08T16:51:00.001-05:00

IMG_6747, originally uploaded by myfinn.

With "Sweetheart" my newest scarf. I modified my chevron lace pattern a bit to include another center panel of lace and am really pleased with the results!

Cumbiana

2009-08-02T12:49:00.001-05:00

IMG_6615, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Gosh. I haven't gone Latin dancing in ages! I used to love to get tarted up on a Saturday night and go out with my girls to whatever bar was having Salsa night.

However, it was more fun to get together with my fellow Mechistas for a baile somewhere in vacant parking lot. Shuffling our feet to tejana, norteneas and my personal favorite, cumbia....Ahhhhhh, memories.

The bright fun colors in this scarf really stirred up some memories of a very different time in my life!

Newbie

2009-07-31T16:51:00.001-05:00

IMG_6596, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I think I may have discovered my new favorite way to use handspun self-striping yarns! I worked a scarf in this design once a while back in Rivulette's 32 Flavors. For this one (Fusion) I used two distinct colorways and alternated every two rows. And POP!

I seriously could have kept on knitting forever, and ever, and ever...

What Have We Here?

2009-07-31T10:12:00.002-05:00

Oooooh! What are these? Why, they are lovely, victorian-inspired collars. How clever! Indeed. For why would one sport a scarf like a mere peasant when you could adorn your neck with one of these beauties. And nothing says high fashion like a limp silk bow!

One hand knit in a dark olive green with a scalloped trim and a hand-dyed olive and violet silk ribbon. The othr hand knit in a variegated tan with a petal edge and a hand-dyed royal blue and purple ribbon.

If you want one, please comment below and mention which you prefer. I will draw the winner(s) in one week!

Going...Going...

2009-07-30T17:43:00.002-05:00

And gone! Sold! To the little lady in the front row. Congrats Marie!

Who Me???

2009-07-30T15:15:00.003-05:00

GIVEAWAY!!! I dug this little lovely out of storage...This cowl/scarflette is super soft, nubbly and fun! Hand knit in a beautiful periwinkle cotton boucle. Imagine how cute she would look with a fitted denim jacket, skinny jeans and flats. Is she yours? Comment below and she just may be!

Emerald Eyes

2009-07-29T16:37:00.001-05:00

IMG_6423, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Finally! I feel like I have been whittling away at this one for ages! And none too soon. I received my acceptance letter for a big show in fall and now I will have to seriously beef up my inventory....Threaded a gorgeous new one in a bright jewel-toned rainbow this afternoon. Can't wait to post it!

And in knitting news, my Kim origami sweater is almost finished! next I am working on a one piece mobius cropped sweater design. Stay tuned!

And a Dash of Sparkle

2009-07-27T12:21:00.001-05:00

What will we be?

Cosmic Swirl

2009-07-19T11:57:00.001-05:00

IMG_6101, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I am soooooo in love with this sweater. But what a bear to work with!! Started about a month ago, this was the project seemed to have no end in sight.

First, I didn't have enough yarn to finish so I had to order more (Fleece Artist Scotian Silk in Cosmic Dawn). And then once I had the length I wanted and started the sleeves, I accidentally unraveled part of my provisional cast-on and had to frog it all the way back to the armholes; which is basically like knitting the whole thing all over again for no good reason at all...But all complaining aside.

Alas, she is done.

Inspired as I am by this beautiful masterpiece, I decided to take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the enormous stack of sweaters I knit in the past but NEVER WEAR?! And I have come to the conclusion that some are to be reworked into a ginormous spiral beadspread, while others are to be GIVEN AWAY!!!

To be contd...

IMG_6102

2009-07-19T11:50:00.001-05:00

IMG_6102, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Completing new projects

2009-07-09T09:52:00.001-05:00

IMG_5982, originally uploaded by myfinn.

This has been a terrible week. We decided to Ferberize our youngest and it is not going as smoothly as we had hoped. Add that to my slow transition from vacation mode to normal, and I am shocked that I have actually finished something! As evidence of my lack of energy and creativity: this project shall be called "Unnamed" until further notice.

Handwoven scarf in a slow-transitioning colorway (Noro Silk Garden) of brown, purples, mint and turquoise. All of which are my favorite colors. The warp threads are an Alpaca twist in white and charcoal and give it a printed or twill look. Overall, I am pleased with the outcome. The only real downside is that as light and airy as this scarf is, it is not for those with sensitive skin. She's a little scratchy.

IMG_6000

2009-07-09T09:48:00.003-05:00

IMG_6000, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_5984

2009-07-09T09:48:00.001-05:00

IMG_5984, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Back Home

2009-06-30T09:06:00.001-05:00

Wilson's Soda Shop - Door County WI, originally uploaded by lava2bk.

From a wonderful week in Door County, WI. Feeling refreshed and inspired...more to come.

De Colores

2009-06-17T10:57:00.002-05:00

IMG_5778, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I am in love. The warp is a variety of yarns from my stash; mostly greys. The weft is my most favorite yarn ever: 32 Flavors! I made two of these, I am keeping one, and this one is for sale in my shop.

IMG_5781

2009-06-17T10:55:00.001-05:00

IMG_5781, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Never a Dull Moment

2009-06-15T15:28:00.005-05:00

IMG_5747, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Just taking a break from projects to share this newbie. I decided to try weaving my most favorite yarn in the world; 32 Flavors by Rivulette Handmade. The last time I worked with this amazing yarn I made this:

Sadly, she is no longer in my possession, I traded her for an awesome ring from myheartmoster.etsy.com.

I am also working on a very cool spiral cardigan that I will post as soon as I am finished!

Night Hand Fulled Scarf

2009-06-15T10:36:00.001-05:00

IMG_5693, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Another attempt at hand fulling and I just love the results! I love how loose you are able to leave the ends/fringe and not worry about your weaving coming undone. Great colors too!

Have a Beautiful Weekend

2009-06-12T18:05:00.002-05:00

The tulip orchard, originally uploaded by blondepowers.

Finished

2009-06-12T10:03:00.002-05:00

IMG_5622, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Not a bad approximation if I do say so myself! I have been informed by the designer that the Amaranta Cape is available for purchase as a kit through the Keep & Share website!

Lucy Plaid

2009-06-12T08:35:00.001-05:00

IMG_5590, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I decided to take a stab at true plaid on my loom and I am very pleased with the results. The design is very on-the-fly and improvised. Truly one of a kind!

IMG_5593

2009-06-12T08:34:00.001-05:00

IMG_5593, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Why My Husband Rocks

2009-06-10T13:35:00.004-05:00

Without being asked, or instructed, he bought me a big '0l bag of ripe bing cherries last weekend when he did the shopping *sigh*.

My First White Hair

2009-06-10T11:26:00.003-05:00

Yup. That is exactly what you think it is. Plucked from my very own head just this morning. The defiant little bugger stuck straight up; mocking me. One would think that 31 is much too young to spout white hairs, apparently genetics would beg to differ.

Coincidentally, my youngest's first tooth erupted this moring. Ah, the circle of life.

Plum Pudding = Love

2009-06-10T10:29:00.001-05:00

IMG_5518, originally uploaded by myfinn.

My new favorite creation.

IMG_5567

2009-06-10T10:27:00.005-05:00

IMG_5567, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_5556

2009-06-10T10:27:00.003-05:00

IMG_5556, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_5520

2009-06-10T10:27:00.001-05:00

IMG_5520, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Back into Knit

2009-06-03T17:52:00.005-05:00

Don't fret! I haven't given up weaving. As a matter of fact I still have a project threaded upon my loom as I type this and am awaiting some gorgeous handspun yarn to start yet another.

I do this from time to time...That is go through these phases where I want to make nothing but garment after garment after garment. Click here to see what I produced on the tail end of my last garment streak. And there are even more further back in the archives.

Right now I am working on cloning a batwing cape thingy that I discovered on etsy some time back by Keep and Share (see picture below). The prototype that I started this afternoon is in a deep forest green yarn from my stash. We'll see how it turns out. It will likely be frogged, kept or given away!

Click photo for original source

And the other item that I am working on is this pattern here by Perl Grey. This is not the first time that I have purchased a kit from Perl Grey. Sadly, the last time I never got around to completing the project and am still in possession of the yarn!

Project by Seaview found on Ravelry

Here's to hoping that this time I actually follow through! Mine will be in a lovely raspberry colorway (slightly more pink than the one pictured).

Met Somewhere in the Middle

2009-06-01T09:52:00.000-05:00

Not too bad, I think?

Meet Starry

2009-05-29T10:10:00.001-05:00

IMG_5392, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Love this colorway, love this scarf!

IMG_5366

2009-05-29T10:09:00.001-05:00

IMG_5366, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Lulu or Mia?

2009-05-28T16:20:00.005-05:00

Last time I got my hair cut I went with the asymmetrical bob-thingy and it has suited me well. Now next week I see the stylist again and I am itching to go super short for summer. Which, when faced with the choice of these two style icons, would you prefer? I personally have always had a thing for the flapper bob, but I did the pixie two summers ago and found that it suited me well, too.

Mia

Lulu

Melissa 11/07

Please comment...I get my haircut next week!

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T10:49:00.001-05:00

happy, originally uploaded by alice b. gardens.

Enjoy this gorgeous image by alice b. gardens on flickr.

Lipgloss/Spicy Peach/Sunrise

2009-05-23T08:49:00.001-05:00

IMG_5314, originally uploaded by myfinn.

I had such a hard time naming this one! Suffice it to say, it is a very beautiful colorway. Orange, peach, coral, pink, fuchsia, magenta, and more! Listed for sale in my shop.

And the Winner is...

2009-05-22T08:53:00.003-05:00

Congratulations Jennifer! Please contact me at dospalomas@gmail.com with your shipping info and I will get your gorgeous scarf out to you ASAP!

Keep posted, all. More giveaways to come. For sure.

Sweeten the Pot

2009-05-21T16:23:00.002-05:00

I added distressing and fringe at the ends, and threw in a pin of handmade felt beads just for fun. Comment on this post to enter!

Happy Thursday!

2009-05-21T07:19:00.002-05:00

Guinness Cupcake with Bailey's cream cheese frosting, originally uploaded by katiebot5000.

Enjoy this image of my friend Katie's Guiness cupcake with cream cheese frosting...YUM!

**I draw the winner of Blue Cabbage tomorrow! Comment here to enter.**

Grand Opening 20% Off

2009-05-17T20:44:00.006-05:00

One of the hardest parts of being a self-representing artist/artisan is pricing. Depending on who you ask, the strategy for pricing handmade textiles (handknits, wovens, etc.) is anywhere from 1.5 to 3 or more-times the cost of materials. If I followed the 3x rule my goods would be ridiculously priced. As it is I sometimes feel that, objectively speaking, my prices are pretty high. But then again what one is paying for is a one-of-a-kind, original designed, handmade work of art. If you want affordable get something mass produced off the rack at TJMax. Right?

The more stubborn and proud artists price high and refuse to negotiate. I envy those people with their amazing confidence. And sometimes they are even successful, but sometimes not. For me it really seems to be hit or miss. In business school I learned all about economies of scale. I found the topic to be both surprising and intriguing; to know that some very successful retailers actually sell some items at a loss but take such huge margins on others that they are, in the long-run, profitable! Keeping all of this in mind I look at an item and grapple with all of these conflicting "rules".

My usual strategy: Okay...how much were the materials for this? Now how much is that x2? Would I pay that much for this? Now. What would I expect to pay for this?...and on and on...It is a very scientific process indeed...But bottom line (no pun intended) I do what I do because I love to do it, not because I depend on what I earn to survive. Not yet anyways. All the same it is a very expensive habit I have and I always need more yarn so that I can keep on creating. And so...

As of tomorrow morning and through June 1st, I am taking 20% off the top and across the board. My gift to you for taking an interest in my hobby, my passion. Thank you.

PS. Don't forget to comment on the GIVEAWAY by Friday 5/22nd to enter to win Blue Cabbage Scarf for FREE!

Butterfly Wings Summer Wrap

2009-05-17T09:04:00.001-05:00

IMG_5260, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Holy ----!

I just love the way this turned out! I used a very fine warp thread and a much bulkier weft in one of my favorite yarns and it is perfectly loose and airy. The colors are absolutely gorgeous! I think I will be doing more of these.

IMG_5272

2009-05-17T09:02:00.003-05:00

IMG_5272, originally uploaded by myfinn.

IMG_5247

2009-05-17T09:02:00.001-05:00

IMG_5247, originally uploaded by myfinn.

shell

2009-05-16T21:22:00.001-05:00

shell, originally uploaded by alice b. gardens.

Amazing picture discovered on flickr. Enjoy...summer is afoot.

Heads or Tails/A New Giveaway...

2009-05-15T07:15:00.003-05:00

So because both of you who voted went in different directions, I was left with no other option but to flip a coin. Tangerine is heads and Blue Cabbage is tails. And the winner is...

TAILS!!!

Blue Cabbage it is. Alright fiber lovers, you have ONE week to enter. I will draw the lucky buckaroo next Friday, May 22nd. Good luck!

Another Giveaway

2009-05-14T06:51:00.004-05:00

So my last giveaway went over so well, and I had so much fun doing it, that I am thinking about doing another! Here are a couple of possiblities:

First, a new design that I am working on. I threw this very loosely-woven wrap together last night in record time. It is fulled for added texture and durability. I am really pleased with the way it turned out, but as it is a prototype of sorts, I am having a hard time assigning a price tag to it. So option 1: Tangerine Summer Shawl

And second is Blue Cabbage. This is the final product of the scarf listed in the last post.

And the rest is up to you! Which scarf should I giveaway? I will list the new giveaway tomorrow!!!

Don't Sweat the Technique

2009-05-12T17:55:00.003-05:00

I was honestly unaware that this "design" is a credited pattern. I vaguely recall seeing a scarf or something somewhere with this holey shape and don't even know if it was knit or woven. After doing some research, it seems that this technique of weaving and then felting the fabric (as I was actually intending to do) was already "discovered" by someone else before me. Alas, there is nothing new under the sun.
All the same I think that if this test-run turns out alright I would like to try again with some lovely handpainted sock. Maybe Noro?

The Hoya Blooms Once This Year

2009-05-10T19:00:00.002-05:00

This plant is the "descendant" of the original that belonged to my father's mother. It passed through my great aunt and my mother before making it's way to me. I haven't had it long, and it is still a baby with lots of room to grow, but I get the very occasional blossom; about once a year. How serendipitous that she chose to bloom this year for Mothers' Day.

Terrified

2009-05-10T16:43:00.005-05:00

There are a lot of little changes going on in my world right now. I launched Dos Palomas on etsy just this afternoon and I am absolutely terrified! I never had the success with My Finn that I had hoped for, and although I feel that my photography and product design is far superior, etsy has become so huge that it is far more easier to get lost and buried in the site now, than it was when I launched my old shop more than 2 years ago.

Please take a look...my link is at the right, and feel free to let me know if you have any constructive criticism. I want this shop to be a success and I cannot succeed if my art is unappealing to the consumer (ie. YOU).

AND secondly, I would like to report that the WW is going really well! I am not going to lie, the first week was incredibly difficult. But I lost 5 lbs already!!! And I even managed to squirrel away enough points to enjoy a wonderful, delicious, Mother's Day brunch this morning with the boys and hubby at my favorite local pub, Duke of Devon. Not to rub it in but tenderloin with shitake gratin, corn and potato hash, champagne, huge colorful bloodies, coconut creme brulee... Mmmmmmmmmmmm...

Happy Mother's Day

Love...

2009-05-09T09:07:00.001-05:00

IMG_4908, originally uploaded by myfinn.

Has an excellent drape...surprisingly soft...

2009-05-09T09:06:00.002-05:00

IMG_4906, originally uploaded by myfinn.

This one is my favorite colorway by far! I used Blue Moon Fiber Arts in Seal Rock for the warp and Mermaid for the weft. Gorgeous. Blues, bluesy-greens, purples and a bit of yellow.

New Stuff

2009-05-05T16:59:00.001-05:00

Here Goes Nothing

2009-05-04T07:03:00.003-05:00

There is nothing that I hate more than our culture's preoccupation with weight and weight loss. Yet at the same time, I am constantly disappointed by my own inability to get control over my weight issues. Flip sides of the same ambivalent coin...

I have struggled with my weight all of my life. There were highs and lows; the lows usually brought on by a motivational remark from my mother and subsequently, unhealthy measures on my part; yet the results were met with praise just the same. I have always been a mind over matter kind of person and believed that if I wanted it badly enough I could just will it to happen. This rule never applied to weight loss, however, and in this respect I have always felt a bit of a failure.

In college I took a very eye-opening class where I learned that the preoccupation with weight loss, the constant worry about calories and intake, and food deprivation are all contributing factors to weight gain! I also came to the conclusion that none of my short-term weight loss measures were successful. On the contrary, I would "rubber band" sooner or later back to my previous weight with a little something extra. Turns out in the long run, this kind of "rubber band" dieting is actually worse for your long-term health than simply being overweight! Plus I could never, ever, trust myself to stick to a "diet" for life, nor could I give up certain indulgences that I enjoy on a fairly regular basis. So all in all, I came to the conclusion that no matter what, I would simply. not. diet.

And then I got pregnant.

I think that Hollywood has really done a number on the collective egos of women in this country. We all have this gross misconception that being pregnant means that we will be all glowy and cutesy with no other physical manifestations that slightly larger boobs and a lovely rounded belly. Ha! With both of my pregnancies the first place where I gained weight was in my bottom! Seriously! Who carries babies in their bottom? Both times it was so bad that I actually didn't fit into XL maternity pants! Can you imagine? When you are already bloated and having a hard time fitting into anything at all as it is? The horror. Post pregnancy weight loss is likewise disappointing for me. Don't expect to see me strutting down the red carpet in a slinky gown just days postpardum. I will be looking positively 2nd trimester for at least another 6 months.

My doctor(s) took issue both times with my weight gain and with my postpardum weight loss. I will never forget sitting in the office time after time, still confounded by the friendly reminders about my weight. I am not a stupid person; I am well aware that pregnancy does not mean a food free-for-all. As a matter of fact I tried very hard with both pregnancies to keep my weight under my control. Yet my body, to spite me, seemed to want to go where it wanted to go with absolutely no regard for my thoughts or feelings on the matter. After Joseph was born it took about 9 months before the weight really started to come off, with no assistance or insistence. And by the time I fell pregnant with Ryan I was only 10 lbs away from my prepregnancy weight.

So again, post Ryan's birth, I find myself in the same pants and shoes quite literally. And this time it seems to be taking even longer to come off! Admittedly, it does seem to be following the same pattern, and perhaps if I were more patient I would see a swift downward swing in a couple of months. All the same, the part of me that needs to have control (albeit irrationally) will not be subdued in the meantime.

I started Weight Watchers Online last night.

I am super-duper scared that I will fail. That I will only last a day or two and give up completely. Or that if I am successful, in time I will just bounce back to where I am now. Or worse, I will gain even more. The prospect of having to do this over and over for the rest of my life makes me weary and depressed. I feel that I shouldn't have to do this! That I should be able to just will it to happen, but my body defies me and I don't have that option...

I need encouragement and support now. If anyone out there has advice, or positive examples to reassure me in this challenge I would greatly appreciate it. In the meantime, I promise to keep you posted of my progress.

And the Winner is...

2009-05-01T07:17:00.002-05:00

Yay! Congratulations, Courtny. Please contact me with your shipping info and you are soon to be in the possession of your very own, one of a kind, handwoven scarf by me.

New work

2009-04-30T18:23:00.002-05:00

Here is a sneak peak at my newest. Should be lovely (I hope).
Can't wait to post the finished product...

PS- I draw the big winner tomorrow!!!

Confection

2009-04-25T15:29:00.003-05:00

The warp ends are a multi/novelty I just discovered called Bewitched in a fuchsia, purple and ivory colorway. The weft is a handpainted rayon boucle that I was really unhappy with until I started putting this thing together.
I guess that is why they are called Serendipity: it is usually a pleasant surprise to see how the yarns weave-up together.

Muddy Rainbow Woven Wrap

2009-04-25T15:25:00.004-05:00

OMG I love the way this one turned out! My selvages are looking much better, and my weaving is looking a bit more even overall...

The wrap is still a little damp in these pictures after having soaked for a while in Pink Grapefruit Eucalan. I will have to try to get some nice full length pictures once it has dried.

Gorgeous

2009-04-23T12:29:00.003-05:00

Color is positively addicting. Weaving is becoming a very expensive habit for me! I think that I am going to try to do a show or two this fall and hopefully get back what I have put into this endeavor financially.

This is my newest, still on the loom. Alpaca, Cotton/Silk and just a hint of sparkle. Should actually end up being wide enough to serve as a wrap or a scarf. Hmmm....I might have to keep this one for myself.

Next up: A throw for the living room. But what colors? So many to choose from!

Weaving, weaving, weaving

2009-04-19T15:50:00.003-05:00

It seems that the scarves I am making fall into one of two categories. First are the ones I call "Serendipity". These are very tactile and organic. They are a combination of fibers, textures and colors. And the second are, well, I am not quite sure what to call them.

I got my 12.5 dent reed in the mail last week and the finer fabric that it creates lends itself best to hand paints and sock yarns (in my opinion). The wild combinations of colors give me a giddy feeling in my belly as I watch the garment "unfold" before my very eyes.

A note about Dos Palomas I am shifting my etsy shop focus...In the beginning I opened an etsy account for the sole purpose of shopping the site and went with the same user name I have used for years: Myfinn. Once I decided to sell it didn't occur to me to change my user name or come up with a clever shop name. But after some time and experience I have learned a few things:

1. I think "My Finn" is a really lame shop name.
2. Most of the people who buy on etsy already knit and don't want to pay a premium for something they can make themselves.
3. My original shop had no artistic focus or brand identity, and I now have a better idea of where I want to go with this.
4. Well, I have got the weaving thing going for me now. And SO...

Enter Dos Palomas. My new shop once launched will be made up of mainly OOAK hand woven goods and knitting pattern PDFs. And the occasional hand-knotted strand of pearls :). It is going to take me some time to get it all together and ready to launch but I am so excited about the new direction of my work that I can hardly contain myself! I thank everyone for your patience and support.

This could be yours...

2009-04-16T15:53:00.008-05:00

Details: This handwoven scarf was made my me. The warp threads are a variety of fibers in assorted colors, some with sparkle, from my stash. The weft is made up of a raspberry cotton-wool blend (Cascade Sierra). Not too itchy. Just the right width at 4", and about 66" in length with an additional 7.5" of fringe on the ends.

Okay, so it has some tension issues. It is less than perfect, but beautiful nonetheless. If I were selling it I would probably ask around $40-$50. SO, if you want it to be yours please comment on this post and I will draw a lucky winner on May 1st. Good Luck!

Novice?

2009-04-14T11:50:00.002-05:00

At what point, I wonder, does one go from being a novice to being an expert at something? I ask because I have now completed 5 projects on my Ashford rigid heddle and have "cast-on" several others that I decided after starting were not going to live up to my expectations.

I suppose I might reach expert status once I have had the chance to try out all the fiber/warp vs. weft combos that I have in my head. Among those: multi color plaid, fading rainbow, hand-dyed ombre, silk ribbons, fulled, felted, float patterns...Well, I guess I still have a ways to go. And don't even get me started on the possibility of stepping up to a harness loom!

Here is my newest WIP: Serendipity II.

My Hero

2009-04-11T11:04:00.003-05:00

I LOVE Fifi Lapin. Here is my new print hung right behind my computer where I can look up at it in wonder of it's loveliness whenever I wish. Get yours here.

Coming Soon...

2009-04-11T10:54:00.003-05:00

Weaving

2009-04-11T10:48:00.005-05:00

I received this Ashford Rigid Heddle loom for Christmas and it has taken me this long to finally learn to use it. One afternoon at Bahr Creek was all it took to complete my first scarf and I am on a roll!

I'm going to take a chance...

2009-01-13T14:53:00.002-06:00

And bet that no one is even reading this anymore. So, it won't matter if I use this as a platform to vent my irritation with the fad of Super, Extremely Chunky, Over-the-top Knits. What gives??? Not only are they HIDEOUS, but insanely impractical. I would love to see someone try to eat a half pound cheeseburger with the works while sporting one of those monstrosities. You know, the ginormous cowls that are 4 times larger than the wearers head!

What kills me more than anything is that any one who knows how to cast-on and knit (basically a BEGINNER) could knit one of these fuglies, yet they are selling left and right at...like...$90 a pop! When there are people like me who hone their craft for YEARS and conceptualize new designs and execute them with skill, trial and error, and complicated algorithms and I can't get my dues?

I am THIS CLOSE to giving up! It would probably be for the better since I have two lovely boys, my greatest creations ever, who depend on me. The greatest satisfaction comes from knowing that whether or not I respond to the way they chew on toys or correctly identify objects can make them feel a thousand feet tall...

Ah, yes, the rest is sand in the jar.

If anyone is out there I would love your input. To quit or not to quit?