Despite the fact that I have been looking at the thing all the while I am weaving it, no matter how well I have planned, or how many hours spent warping and weaving, there is always an element of surprise when the woven thing is cut from the loom! When first rolled off, you only see the back side… But what about the front? How will the rug look on the floor? Did the colors work out? Are there any weaving mistakes that show?
My first reaction is usually, “Wow! This is fantastic! I made that??!” My later reaction is often, “Oh, that looks stupid unrefined. I’m embarrassed to show this to anyone.” Do you ever go through this? I finally end up with a more rational view, valuing the accomplishment and fixing any errors that are fixable. All the while, making note of what to do or not do the next time. (Similarly, don’t measure the rug until it has been on the floor for a couple days. You won’t get a true reading until the threads have relaxed.)
Willpower, good intentions, and positive thinking can only go so far in giving me a realistic view of what I can accomplish, and how to face failures. I need grace. God’s grace enables me to have a truthful view of reality, and the requisite humility and courage to express it.
May all your surprises be better than you expect.
To see the front of this finished double binding rag rug, “Forest at Dawn,” visit my Etsy Shop. (A special discount as my Thank You to my blog friends: Use coupon code friend615 to receive 20% off this rug, or any other item in the shop during the month of June.)
Happy Weaving,
Karen
I so admire your weaving and the philosophy that goes hand in hand with your art. Being new I keep hoping I won’t make any mistakes if I’m careful, but I’ve rethought this and acknowledge mistakes are part of learning the skills and acquiring virtues such as patience and grace. Soon I will be ready to put this into practice!
Trish, you have really touched me with your thoughtful sentiments. I love what you are saying about seeing mistakes as being part of the learning process!
Thank you for leaving your thoughts here,
Karen
I’ve been weaving for 40+ years. I’m not fast anymore and can not produce like Karen, but I love weaving. The big thing I’ve learned is Nothing is truly perfect. when I go back and look at pieces I see where I could have done better. Don’t ever beat yourself up about your weaving, because you have created a masterpiece just right for now. She is always accepting. PL&J, linda
Thanks for your words of wisdom.
Consider those little oop as your signature. Perfection is so overrated! My signature is usually a few gray hairs woven into my projects.
That’s a good perspective!
Thanks for sharing,
Karen