A few years back I was inspired by the writings and thoughts, along with what can be described as a mantra for living, written down by Elaine Lipson under the movement entitled Slow Cloth.
What appealed to me was how it chimed with how I naturally approach my craft work, art and other items I produce, as well as echoing ways I try to live my life.
- Simplicity
- Plain
- Truthful
- Skilful
- Shared Experience – history/community
- Pride in purpose and whilst in use.
Sounds so simple… but it isn’t !!!
Sounds so easy – yes rigid heddle weaving is “easy” – it is known as plain cloth, and doesn’t have any fancy patterns running through it, or need equipment which takes over a house (I say that with finger’s crossed… !!) but I concentrate on the quality of the warp and weft, which are often also produced by me, and the simplicity of the construction allows the materials to speak for themselves.
I very often leave orphaned “weavings” which should be ideally constructed into shawls or scarves or backdrops for embroideries and further embellishments to create a “finished” structured piece which reflects the designs in my notebooks, draped over the back of a chair or hung from in front of a window so the light can shine through, simply so I can admire the beauty of the hue or texture.
So instead of striving for sophistication and compete with the abilities of others – I am happy and content with my own journey.
Why am I writing this blog, about this subject this morning?
Because I had forgotten my way.
The simple task this morning of cleaning down my overflowing and non-functioning noticeboard which I awake every morning to (when I am at home… there lies the rub) – look at first thing and totally stress out over even before I have got out of bed, has uncovered a layer of notes and thoughts, which were put there because they were important !
Stopped me in my tracks. So I have left them there…in my new tracks… and to guide me in the right direction…
Only taken me eight years to work that one out then…
DyeVerse 