I was excited to escape from Williamstown yesterday. Miriam and I traveled over the Mohawk Trail to check out the Franklin County Fiber Twist in Greenfield. It was a rainy day, and much of the drive over the mountain was in the fog. The muted dullness of the day made the blast of color and verve that greeted us as we walked into the event all the more welcome.
The Fiber Twist showcases local sheep and fiber farmers, spinners, knitters, dyers, felters, weavers, rug hookers - all things fiber. Miriam had the opportunity to try spinning on a 150-year-old spinning wheel. Watching her patiently tease the wool into a reasonably consistent-sized yarn made me thankful for all the easily-available pre-spun yarn that I often buy without a thought to exactly where it came from. If I had to raise an animal, sheer it, wash, card, spin, and dye the wool - how much actual knitting would I get done?
I was glad to see that knitter and embroiderer Kristin Nicholas had a booth. I have been attracted to her work since I first saw her books. I love her choice of bright jewel colors and whimsical design. Here is just a glimpse at her display.
It is energizing to attend events such as this. I drove home with ideas for future projects, and simply happy to have gotten out of my own head for a while and into the creative space of others. And to top it all off, I was able to meet my lovely, new(ish) friend Liz for an excellent lunch and visit. A day well spent.
