Fibre Arts
The Fibre Artist's Corner: A Collection of Handmade Textile Projects
I first learned to handspin yarn as a teenager under the guidance of an elderly cousin. My interest in handspinning has extended to all forms of fibre arts and textile crafts.
One of the things I love most about fibre arts is the versatility it offers. Whether I'm making yarn, using yarn in a project, or playing with different fibres to create textures and patterns, there are endless possibilities to explore. I have created cozy jumpers and hats for winter and astronomy, vibrant textiles to decorate or use in my home, and unique gifts for friends and family that are truly one-of-a-kind.
The process of working with fibres is not just about creating something tangible; it's also a form of therapy for me. The repetitive motions of spinning or weaving are meditative, allowing me to slow down, focus my mind, and find a sense of calm in the midst of a busy day. The tactile experience of working with different fibres and textures is incredibly soothing and grounding, bringing me a sense of joy and fulfillment that is hard to find elsewhere.
This page contain galleries of completed fibre related projects. I work mainly with natural fibres, either dyed or raw. Currently, most of the projects I complete are for personal and family use only but I occasionally have handwoven teatowels for sale.
I exhibit my work annually in the Gawler Show and have won several awards for my handspinning and weaving.
Fibre Art Galleries
Handspinning
Weaving
Knitting
Crochet
Felting
“If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe”
Carl Sagan
Handspinning
I start with fibre
As I have no wish to invent a universe, I purchase raw fleece or commercially prepared fibre from reputable Australian or New Zealand fibre producers.
We are fortunate in South Australia to have an abundance of beautiful clean raw fleeces available. This is then cleaned, dyed if needed, carded before being spun.
I purchase prepared fibre from various Australian or New Zealand fibre stores. we are very spoiled for choice with such high quality beautifully prepared and dyed fibre available.
Weaving
Incorporating mathematics!
Weaving is a binary system. A yarn is either up or down. From this, so many marvelous patterns can be created, by combinations of yarn up or down. My weaving journey has taken me from basic 2 shaft weaving to more complex 8 shaft weaving. I enjoy the challenge of following drafts, combining colour, dressing a loom and find completing a project very satisfying.
Knitting
Wearable art
Knitting is a functional craft. I knit mostly with my own handspun yarn, which makes each garment unique. I adapt patterns to suit my yarn, or create yarn to suit a pattern. I enjoy putting my skills to use in such a practical manner.
Handspun, handknitted jumpers are wonderful for cold nights under a clear sky!
Crochet
Following Instruction
As a creator, I also enjoy following someone else's vision. I know at the start what my work will look like. I also like experimenting with choosing colours and arrangements of my own, so will often vary patterns to suit myself. The only crochet design I have created for myself is the James Webb Telescope blanket, which has proved its value on may cold nights under the stars.
Felting
Trying something new
2021 saw me learning needle felting and wet felting as an experimental technique for my studies in illustration with the University of South Australia. My tutor knew I enjoyed hand spinning and weaving and encouraged me to try my hand at felting as a way to create illustrations.
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