Tag: cottolin

Unbeatable Creativity

Karen

Finding thread from my stash to make some kitchen towels is an interesting endeavor because of natural limits. There only so many colors and fibers to choose from. My stash is not very big since I just started weaving seriously a relatively short time ago. However, some experts say creativity does its best work within defined limits.

Cottolin and tow linen for making handwoven kitchen towels.
Pulled from my stash, this small assortment of cottolin and tow linen thread is selected for making kitchen towels.

Think of this: Our infinite master weaver created the earth with finite materials. Talk about defined limits! No wonder we see so much awe-inspiring creativity in nature.

The towels belong to the weaver who makes them; and are hers to give or keep. And the earth belongs to the one who made it. Within his control are the very depths of the earth; the mountaintops too—they all belong to him. The sea belongs to him, for he created it—scooped and filled it—with his hands he made the dry land—every valley and mountain.

Who can match that creativity?

May you experience a burst of creativity in the face of real limitations.

Keeping it simple,
Karen

This Is What Makes You Beautiful

Karen

A piece of woven sampling becomes a purse. I started creating this little purse months ago, but got frustrated in my design-as-you-go process and put it back in the box.

Twill pattern cottolin towel warp
Sampling at the beginning of the warp, trying out different weft colors and treadling patterns. Most of this warp was made into kitchen towels.

Determined to find solutions, last week I brought the unfinished project back out. After redesigning, ripping out, adding, and sewing… Voila! A finished purse! Finding wisdom is like searching for a solution to something you feel like giving up on. When you press through with determination, though, breakthrough comes.

Handwoven purse being created
Trying out options for adding a zipper inside the purse. Also adding a strap I wove on the band loom.

Beauty is only skin deep. Really? If it is only surface, do you still call it beauty? The outside of a person makes a first impression, but it is the inner person that leaves a lasting impact. What good is a purse that is nice only on the outside? A great purse should make you say, ooh, ahh… when you peer inside.

Inside of handwoven bag
Lined, inner divider with complimentary fabrics, zipper with braided zipper pull, and matching woven strap finishes the bag.

Wisdom that guides everyday decisions creates beauty inside and out. Wisdom must be sought out. Like digging for buried treasure, it is worth the struggle. Wisdom brings extraordinary value to your thoughts, words, and actions; and then presents you as the beauty you were created to be.

Handwoven cottolin purse
One-of-a-kind small handwoven bag, woven and designed with gentle persistence. Handwoven Fabric: Cotton/Linen blend; Lining: Cotton

May wisdom guide all your decisions.

Searching for buried treasure,
Karen