MIZUGOROMO
When it's hot outside, it is time to weave "Water Cloth" (or mizugoromo in Japanese)!

Inspired by the patterns in Japanese Noh Costumes as seen in the link below: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/2002.386 


I am interpreting the pattern in this way.......
All silk -- some tussah (single ply) and 120/2 superfine.

The Open ReedTM

Having given myself the freedom to explore and create, I have found a bit of success! There are still some ways to tweak this technique, but for the most part, I have found a great rhythm in using an open Reed.

I picture the roots of trees when I see this as I am weaving. The movement of light as the weft twists and floats across the warp while on the loom is only a hint of what this will be like off loom. What is adding to the excitement of this process, is the idea of non-function. I am not weaving a specific project ~ scarf, shawl, rug ~ but instead, I am weaving to see where this process will lead.

By letting the fabric speak for itself, I am hoping the textile will initiate a response of shared process, shared quest, shared interest with a viewer. I don't know how long this fabric will be, but I have a beginning.

New Studio Work

I am sooo excited I can hardly stand it!!! I am working on a new series of wool scarves and this one is wool and silk. I have enclosed natural color silk cocoons in this piece. The weft is a natural silk that has been sized with viscose for strength. The viscose washes out along with the gum of the cocoons in the finishing. LUSCIOUS!

And this is a bamboo and cotton paper tape scarf that has incredible drape. The weft float pattern is reminiscent of bamboo.

On another note, all my rugs can be found in the shop of Dove and Distaff, 365 Main Street, Wakefield. Carla Davis, owner and proprietor, has a beautiful line of upholstery and interior fabrics. She has recently started carrying hooked, tufted, and woven rugs of high quality and unique design. It is worth checking out!