The softer, the better. We all know that wool can be scratchy, but we like wool because of its warmth. And, as a fiber for weaving, wool is easy to work with because of its elasticity. Wet finishing reduces the scratchiness, making it possible to end up with a comfy wool blanket. A soft and gentle blanket.
Gentleness is stronger than we think. A lullaby has the power to quiet a crying baby. My son once had a first grade teacher who could still a classroom of seven- and eight-year-olds with a whisper. And the gentle touch of a friend can speak louder than words.
We influence far more people through kindness, gentleness, and patience than we ever will with persuasive arguments. Like a soft and comfy wool blanket, gentleness is strong enough to warm someone in the cold.
~ It’s time for segment three in the Wool Blanket Finishing series. ~
You can learn about the previous video segments in Quiet Friday: Wool Blanket Finishing, or you can view them here:
1. Twisting Fringe on the Loom
2. Wool Blanket Before Wet Finishing
Please return next week for the fourth video segment, Wool Blanket Final Finishing, to find out what happens to the fringe!
May your gentle influence increase.
Warmly,
Karen
Karen
Your blanket is beautiful. I would have preferred to see you place the blanket
on a flat surface such as the floor versus the counter top. Placing towels on the floor to help picking up the moisture. I would have spun out some of the water to assist in the drying process. About 2 minutes of spinning. The blanket is very manageable. I would be concerned with stretching the blanket on the counter top because of the water dripping off the edges.
Just a few after thought.
Marie
Hi Marie,
I appreciate your thoughts. I agree that a flat surface would be better for drying the blanket. The tile floor, with towels on it, is perfect for that if you have enough floor space. That is how I have dried smaller pieces. Fortunately, the finished blanket ended up nice and flat, and doesn’t appear to be stretched out of shape.
I should try doing a short spin, as you suggest. I have had unhappy results of permanent creases from the spin cycle on some items, so I tend to avoid the spin cycle for the first wash on most handwovens.
Thanks so much for your input!
Karen
I am enjoying your video series, just found your website yesterday and this is very timely for me as my next project is going to be my first double weave blanket!
Nancy, That’s wonderful that you are starting a double weave blanket! There are so many things to try with weaving, and it is always exciting to start something new!
Happy Weaving,
Karen
Karen
I can’t see your Video. Is there any secret?
Olga, there is no secret. I don’t know why it is not working for you. Try this link: https://vimeo.com/117551509