Creative Expression at its Best

Many variables are possible on this rosepath threading, but I find creative freedom by imposing certain limitations for the design of the rag rugs. The overall design concept gives me direction for arranging colors and setting a treadling pattern for each rug.

Rosepath rag rug on the loom. Karen Isenhower
Overall rosepath is featured on this rag rug, appearing as a diagonal white grid on the top side, with subtle color changes in the background weft. Previous rug is seen wrapping around the cloth beam below.

How many times have I gone off track, only to realize that I didn’t really get on a track in the first place? When I start without clear intentions, I set myself up for inconsistent results (HERE is one example). This is true for weaving rugs and for dealing with people. If I determine to live by a standard of kindness, those clear intentions will shape how I speak and act.

We can protect relationships with kindness, which is at the heart of love. The greatest enemies to love are biting words, a sharp wit at someone else’s expense, and shading of the truth. Who wants to be on the receiving end of that? Self-imposed limitations on our words open up creative expressions of kindness. The beauty that is formed by these sincere expressions is a beauty that stands out, being different from the norm; and it’s a beauty that endures.

May you experience someone else’s kindness today.

Come check out my new Etsy! Just click on the Etsy Shop page above. Let me know what you think.

With you,
Karen

 

1 thought on “Creative Expression at its Best

  1. Hi Karen,
    I grew up watching my grandfather weave rugs, Summers I would help him with craft fairs and also learn a little of what he did.
    My grandfather died at the age of 91 still weaving rugs and was blind, he learned to weave rugs at a camp for the blind early in his years. He has been gone for 20 years and he has left to me one of his looms. I look at it all the time and know he would want me to enjoy it as much as he has.
    He is known in Lacrosse, WI as the blind rug weaver.
    His name was Oscar Erickson and I’m his grand daughter Brenda Adams, I live in a little town in Illinois named Hampshire.
    I would love to set his loom up and show my children what their great grandfather did to support his family and did because he loved it so much.
    I would love the chance to talk with you and share more information if you had time. I look forward to talking with you.
    Thank you,
    Brenda

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