It is almost the Gregorian New Year, so Happy New Year to those celebrating the event. I will most likely be home - that is my intent. Probably I will be spinning. The dogs will take me for an early walk, before the area turns into an auditory equivalent of cities under bombardment.
I have made minor progress: I test spun the two samples of wool and got a satisfying 20 meters from my first singles, which meant it was about 50 tex. So with the second trial gram of wool I got just over 12 meters and am assuming that is close to an 84 tex.
Carefully I wrapped the results around some nice green card I remembered having bought about three years ago thinking I needed it, but had never used it. The "fatter" results sits on my lap as I spin to remind me of the target.
My cutwork lace is progressing too. I now have 18 pattern repeats completed: nine on each cuff. Less than half to be sure but still considerable progress. On one I have pulled the threads out even further and "grouped" the remaining threads in tiny bundles of four. This is a serious error I know. Threads need to be worked in groups of three. However the threads are very fine and the pattern is not opening up prettily when grouped in threes. I think groups of four will give me the "look". It will also eventually lead to fewer pattern repeats. But I think I can handle that sacrifice, and possibly save what remains of my vision!
Today I was in Ekolo, a marvelous eco shop in Jyväskylä. I had decided to buy henna hair dye for my wool (the wool off of sheep, not the stuff sprouting out of my scalp). As I studied the packets, reading the directions, I decided I wanted to know what the ingredients were. One, supposedly for reds, is 100% henna; the other, supposedly for black, is 100% indigo. The packets are preweighed (100 g), but I kept weighing them in my hand and trying to remember "how much" was needed to dye "how much" wool. Actually I just wanted to be sure I bought enough. I decided to buy one of each. The henna will be enough for a test with about 100 g of wool or silk. The indigo will be enough for several kilos of wool or silk. Am I happy? Oh yes! This is as good as the time Kristiina and I "found" saffron on sale at some ridiculously give away price. Hum, I wonder what color saffron would dye wool or silk... Silk, saffron is too expensive for wool!
Oh I did get the software for the camera downloaded, and I even took some pictures - but I haven't put the pictures on the computer to upload. Sorry.
Smiles,
Susanne
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Snowing
It’s snowing like troops of angels gracefully descending from heaven.
I got some more cut work done, one or two of the flowers are actually looking like flowers. If I do NOT get another chapter to revise I will finally reload the program that lets me download pictures and then send them so you can see the mess I’ve created.
I got another batch of Osterfrisieses milcheschaffe (East Friesian Milk Sheep) wool spun, plied and skeined. This brings me to a total of 1020 meters of yarn for the warp for the blankets I will make. I need at least another 1000 meters before I will wind the warp.
Before I spin more Osterfriesies wool, I will do some samples in Corriedale to see if I dare spin the wool for the belt warp. I have two samples set out, each about 1 gram. I need to have at least 10 meters of yarn before I can proceed. Actually I need yarn that is 84 x 2 tex, so that means the yarn I spin must be about 12-13 meters long in order to be the correct thickness. I am stating with singles, a single thickness, because that is what must be right before I ply it.
Smiles,
Susanne
I got some more cut work done, one or two of the flowers are actually looking like flowers. If I do NOT get another chapter to revise I will finally reload the program that lets me download pictures and then send them so you can see the mess I’ve created.
I got another batch of Osterfrisieses milcheschaffe (East Friesian Milk Sheep) wool spun, plied and skeined. This brings me to a total of 1020 meters of yarn for the warp for the blankets I will make. I need at least another 1000 meters before I will wind the warp.
Before I spin more Osterfriesies wool, I will do some samples in Corriedale to see if I dare spin the wool for the belt warp. I have two samples set out, each about 1 gram. I need to have at least 10 meters of yarn before I can proceed. Actually I need yarn that is 84 x 2 tex, so that means the yarn I spin must be about 12-13 meters long in order to be the correct thickness. I am stating with singles, a single thickness, because that is what must be right before I ply it.
Smiles,
Susanne
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Between loads of Laundry
I am between loads of laundry, Saturday morning being my usual laundry day. The apartment block has one laundry room with one washer so I mind the clock rather closely so I can get full use of my two hour time block.
I didn't get any cut work done yesterday. I did manage to do some spinning, still for the blanket. Until this current bobbin of singles is finished, plied and wound off I really cannot start spinning for my belt.
I have been thinking of Tex - the metric count system for classifying yarn thickness. I am not sure if my digital scale can measure 0.084 grams. I may be doing this more "by guess and by gosh" than I care to do. Such is life.
Spent yesterday actually getting my tax return and then enjoyed spending a little of it on gifts. Evilly, I think I spent more on myself! I bought wool fabric to make a skirt and possibly a vest, or add trim to the skirt.
Had a great time visiting with Funlayo and family on Thursday evening and, with just Funlayo on Friday morning. We managed a little shopping for Jory's new baby.
Back to work for me. All sorts of things to do, including that dissertation that needs checking.
Smiles,
Susanne
I didn't get any cut work done yesterday. I did manage to do some spinning, still for the blanket. Until this current bobbin of singles is finished, plied and wound off I really cannot start spinning for my belt.
I have been thinking of Tex - the metric count system for classifying yarn thickness. I am not sure if my digital scale can measure 0.084 grams. I may be doing this more "by guess and by gosh" than I care to do. Such is life.
Spent yesterday actually getting my tax return and then enjoyed spending a little of it on gifts. Evilly, I think I spent more on myself! I bought wool fabric to make a skirt and possibly a vest, or add trim to the skirt.
Had a great time visiting with Funlayo and family on Thursday evening and, with just Funlayo on Friday morning. We managed a little shopping for Jory's new baby.
Back to work for me. All sorts of things to do, including that dissertation that needs checking.
Smiles,
Susanne
Thursday, December 17, 2009
update on cutwork lace, spinning
The cut work lace is proceeding. I won’t say it is fast. I won’t say it looks like the picture in the book. The design does not “open up” and show itself, which is most unfortunate. I need to go back to the one I started with and open up more of the threads that I’m removing, then complete a second “flower” or two so that both cuffs keep pace with each other. I do think I am gaining a feel for how the stitchery goes and may even finally grasp the pattern itself. The first half of each pattern has seemed easy. The second has been almost incomprehensible: how do I get to the end from the mid point?
Kanerva, my Ashford Traditional spinning wheel, got a present today: a distaff. I fetched the box from Customs this morning, the whole trip going like clockwork. Once I had a break in the day I sanded the distaff then oiled it and this evening I waxed it and then attached it to Kanerva. It is very elegant. I attached it so that I wouldn’t loose any parts though I don’t yet need its services. The time is coming when it will be needed.
The Inkle loom was also in the box from Customs. It also got a sanding, oiling and waxing before I put it together. I haven’t glued the pegs in. Most pegs seemed to fit quite snugly. The three pegs that weren’t snug, I “snugged” by adding a strip of yarn around them. I also made the leashes for weaving. So all is set. Now I must spin wool and wait for the lace flier to be back in stock, paid for, and arrive before I tackle spinning cotton. Only after the wool and cotton is spun will I settle down to weave the belt.
Kanerva, my Ashford Traditional spinning wheel, got a present today: a distaff. I fetched the box from Customs this morning, the whole trip going like clockwork. Once I had a break in the day I sanded the distaff then oiled it and this evening I waxed it and then attached it to Kanerva. It is very elegant. I attached it so that I wouldn’t loose any parts though I don’t yet need its services. The time is coming when it will be needed.
The Inkle loom was also in the box from Customs. It also got a sanding, oiling and waxing before I put it together. I haven’t glued the pegs in. Most pegs seemed to fit quite snugly. The three pegs that weren’t snug, I “snugged” by adding a strip of yarn around them. I also made the leashes for weaving. So all is set. Now I must spin wool and wait for the lace flier to be back in stock, paid for, and arrive before I tackle spinning cotton. Only after the wool and cotton is spun will I settle down to weave the belt.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
snail's pace progress
It seems I cannot keep up, fortunately I have not set out to blog every day, nor have I promised to deliver “x” amount of handiwork per day, both of which is most fortunate, because life and unexpected meetings keep getting in the way of succeeding.
On Wednesday at Puikkoset, I managed to get 30 threads pulled from 2 inches of closely woven cotton. On Thursday at the Kansallispuku ompelu, I got a little of that lacework begun. It is on the sleeve cuff. Next I will need to take the other sleeve cuff and do the same. That way I will have two cuffs that both begin equally incompetently. Hopefully the rhythm and structure of the lace motif will settle in well before I am at the mid point of both cuffs. On Monday evening I will open an equal distance on the other sleeve cuff.
I am still spinning wool for a blanket, but since I will get a package from Customs on Wednesday, and it has the wool from Ashford... I need to finish this current spinning, which I can come back to. I will try spinning the wool for the belt over Christmas. I will put together the Inkle Loom that’s in that package at Customs too. Once I set up to spin that wool and get into the groove of it I suppose I ought to do the entire kilo at once – or to be fair: to do it without interrupting myself with other spinning. I need the same thickness of wool for the skirt so it would be best to lock into the groove of spinning just that. The yarn for the belt will be the “test run.” Currently the idea of spinning an entire kilo of wool seems an exceptionally tall order! Then I must dye it. I will dye the wool for the belt with indigo.
How much madder do I have?
Have I got enough indigo?
Now I must get back to work. I have texts that require the language be checked.
On Wednesday at Puikkoset, I managed to get 30 threads pulled from 2 inches of closely woven cotton. On Thursday at the Kansallispuku ompelu, I got a little of that lacework begun. It is on the sleeve cuff. Next I will need to take the other sleeve cuff and do the same. That way I will have two cuffs that both begin equally incompetently. Hopefully the rhythm and structure of the lace motif will settle in well before I am at the mid point of both cuffs. On Monday evening I will open an equal distance on the other sleeve cuff.
I am still spinning wool for a blanket, but since I will get a package from Customs on Wednesday, and it has the wool from Ashford... I need to finish this current spinning, which I can come back to. I will try spinning the wool for the belt over Christmas. I will put together the Inkle Loom that’s in that package at Customs too. Once I set up to spin that wool and get into the groove of it I suppose I ought to do the entire kilo at once – or to be fair: to do it without interrupting myself with other spinning. I need the same thickness of wool for the skirt so it would be best to lock into the groove of spinning just that. The yarn for the belt will be the “test run.” Currently the idea of spinning an entire kilo of wool seems an exceptionally tall order! Then I must dye it. I will dye the wool for the belt with indigo.
How much madder do I have?
Have I got enough indigo?
Now I must get back to work. I have texts that require the language be checked.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Another Progress report
I figure it has been some 5 days since I last posted. A lot has happened in that time. and much of it has kept me away from my computer. My apologies if this report is long, but I am compensating for three day’s absence.
On Wednesday afternoon I called Eija for a chat. We clarified all my questions. In the evening, at Puikkoset, Pirkko and Lea Kaarina poured over the cutwork photos with me. We all ogled the books. We counted what I had done, agreed it was definitely not the intended lace – and here I mean the most simplified lacework. They guessed that the “look” is different due to the photographed blouse having been washed and any shrinkage and movement that washing could create.
Else also took a picture of me spinning silk. One small length from a silk cap I had dyed with Ashford dyes. I used the Navajo plying technique to get a short three ply bit of silk yarn.
On Thursday I got to my sewing class and went over all the pictures and information again with Ritva. Unfortunately I had lost my needle somewhere between Puikkoset and class so I didn’t get any sewing done, but as I had to leave for another meeting it probably didn’t matter.
I am determined to spend the Christmas break practicing… now to find time to do so. I returned the library books to Ritva. Interestingly enough at the meeting I had to go to, Leila brought me a copy of Suomalinen Reikäompelu (Finnish Cutwork) which was printed in 1951 several years before I was born! It is one of the books Ritva had borrowed from the library, it is out of print, and this particular copy is now mine! How very fortunate to have such excellent friends! I was also able to discuss some patterns with granddaughter Lilja and hope to use her ideas.
On Friday I had a two hour break between classes and went into town. At Eurokangas, a large fabric store, I bought two meters of closely woven white cotton and intend it for my blouse. Then I went to käsityöneuvonta (handwork consulting) which deals with weaving and sewing issues. They were a tremendous help. They provided a short piece of cotton yarn that is a 28x2tex
Besides it needs to be mercerized – and I don’t think I can do that at home.
On Friday afternoon, before my Tai Chi class I had found a source of appropriate cotton yarn –Ashford! I will look for others and go with the most reasonable. I also went to Poppeli to see if Pauliina had cotton yarn that would be appropriate for the belt. She does. However, I didn’t buy any because this is something I do want to spin myself and it is a four ply. If I do not succeed, then I can buy. Still, I face the problem of mercerization that I really don’t believe can, nor should, be done at home. My sources seem silent on the subject. Meanwhile I do have to ask Heather a few more spinning questions. I’ll be back!
Smiles,
Susanne
On Wednesday afternoon I called Eija for a chat. We clarified all my questions. In the evening, at Puikkoset, Pirkko and Lea Kaarina poured over the cutwork photos with me. We all ogled the books. We counted what I had done, agreed it was definitely not the intended lace – and here I mean the most simplified lacework. They guessed that the “look” is different due to the photographed blouse having been washed and any shrinkage and movement that washing could create.
Else also took a picture of me spinning silk. One small length from a silk cap I had dyed with Ashford dyes. I used the Navajo plying technique to get a short three ply bit of silk yarn.
On Thursday I got to my sewing class and went over all the pictures and information again with Ritva. Unfortunately I had lost my needle somewhere between Puikkoset and class so I didn’t get any sewing done, but as I had to leave for another meeting it probably didn’t matter.
I am determined to spend the Christmas break practicing… now to find time to do so. I returned the library books to Ritva. Interestingly enough at the meeting I had to go to, Leila brought me a copy of Suomalinen Reikäompelu (Finnish Cutwork) which was printed in 1951 several years before I was born! It is one of the books Ritva had borrowed from the library, it is out of print, and this particular copy is now mine! How very fortunate to have such excellent friends! I was also able to discuss some patterns with granddaughter Lilja and hope to use her ideas.
On Friday I had a two hour break between classes and went into town. At Eurokangas, a large fabric store, I bought two meters of closely woven white cotton and intend it for my blouse. Then I went to käsityöneuvonta (handwork consulting) which deals with weaving and sewing issues. They were a tremendous help. They provided a short piece of cotton yarn that is a 28x2
Besides it needs to be mercerized – and I don’t think I can do that at home.
On Friday afternoon, before my Tai Chi class I had found a source of appropriate cotton yarn –Ashford! I will look for others and go with the most reasonable. I also went to Poppeli to see if Pauliina had cotton yarn that would be appropriate for the belt. She does. However, I didn’t buy any because this is something I do want to spin myself and it is a four ply. If I do not succeed, then I can buy. Still, I face the problem of mercerization that I really don’t believe can, nor should, be done at home. My sources seem silent on the subject. Meanwhile I do have to ask Heather a few more spinning questions. I’ll be back!
Smiles,
Susanne
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Progress report 3
The phone company is going to begin to have hope for me and will actually have reason to send me a bill this month! There are months I use the phone so seldom, that I don't get a bill at all. I called to clarify most of my many questions about the Finnish National Dress that I will make. If you want to see the basic protype you can follow this link:
http://www.vastavalo.fi/kansallispuku-lapvaartti-kansallispuvun-osia-148283.html
If the book I mentioned yesterday didn't clue you in, and if you are still somewhat in the dark about the variety of Finnish National Dress then allow that this particular one is one from the Swedish speaking population of Finland. I first saw it in old, 1912, black and white photos in the book and wasn't sure of the colors but liked the look of the skirt. I admit I was a little disappointed to find it was red. But when I met Eija, she assured me that in fact the skirt can be red, or blue, or black, or green, or purple and all my disappointment vanished. I like the simplicity (!?) of it - it isn't all colors run amuck (and that from a person who wears such colors!). I am also learning that the simplicity is an illusion! Those interesting white flecks in the skirt , and the flecks of color in the apron, are in fact ikat. They are very carefully and finely dyed, then very precisely placed in the weave (weft). Theoretically I understand. I am eager to try it and in mortal terror that I won't be careful enough!
Meanwhile I do have answers to my questions. For the blouse I need a very closely woven cotton, or linen/cotton blend. This will improve the drape of the sleeves. I must use the cut work on pages 54-5 of Perinteistä ja uutta Suomalainen Revinnäiskirja but should not use the technique on page 63. Instead I can try the two styles on page 56. Currently, as beginner, the styles on page 56 look extremely difficult - beautiful to be sure - but difficult. In any event the style chosen must be close and dense, and other than that I may more or less freely choose.
Yes, the warp of the skirt needs to be cotton. Wool will not do. The warp will need to be "tex 28x2". I know this means a two ply, but I am not sure exactly how thin and fine this amounts to - and this in spite of having read about the tex system. When reading it, it sounds very clear and simple but it doesn't translate into something I visualize! I also don't know if the cotton is mercerized or not! Oh dear, looks like another phone call! Meanwhile the belt I can indeed pick and choose among the patterns sent. Originally the patterns on the belt were very locality specific, so for the general area the overall "look" was the same but by looking at the belt one knew where each person was from.
My Inkle Loom to weave the belt on is in the post. The wool to spin to weave the pattern of the belt is is the post. The high speed flier to spin the cotton to weave the belt is waiting until after Twelfth Night to be made, then sent, then I must learn to spin cotton before I can weave the belt!!! It looks like I am forced to concentrate on learning cut work embroidery skills while dreaming of ikat and belt weaving.
I have done my daily spinning. Now is time to walk the mutts and the enjoy the three books my sister sent: The Ocean of His Words, Prophet's Daughter, and Spiritual Intelligence. Reading the three introductions last night didn't exactly clarify which one I would prefer to read first, but each has a completely different appeal.
http://www.vastavalo.fi/kansallispuku-lapvaartti-kansallispuvun-osia-148283.html
If the book I mentioned yesterday didn't clue you in, and if you are still somewhat in the dark about the variety of Finnish National Dress then allow that this particular one is one from the Swedish speaking population of Finland. I first saw it in old, 1912, black and white photos in the book and wasn't sure of the colors but liked the look of the skirt. I admit I was a little disappointed to find it was red. But when I met Eija, she assured me that in fact the skirt can be red, or blue, or black, or green, or purple and all my disappointment vanished. I like the simplicity (!?) of it - it isn't all colors run amuck (and that from a person who wears such colors!). I am also learning that the simplicity is an illusion! Those interesting white flecks in the skirt , and the flecks of color in the apron, are in fact ikat. They are very carefully and finely dyed, then very precisely placed in the weave (weft). Theoretically I understand. I am eager to try it and in mortal terror that I won't be careful enough!
Meanwhile I do have answers to my questions. For the blouse I need a very closely woven cotton, or linen/cotton blend. This will improve the drape of the sleeves. I must use the cut work on pages 54-5 of Perinteistä ja uutta Suomalainen Revinnäiskirja but should not use the technique on page 63. Instead I can try the two styles on page 56. Currently, as beginner, the styles on page 56 look extremely difficult - beautiful to be sure - but difficult. In any event the style chosen must be close and dense, and other than that I may more or less freely choose.
Yes, the warp of the skirt needs to be cotton. Wool will not do. The warp will need to be "tex 28x2". I know this means a two ply, but I am not sure exactly how thin and fine this amounts to - and this in spite of having read about the tex system. When reading it, it sounds very clear and simple but it doesn't translate into something I visualize! I also don't know if the cotton is mercerized or not! Oh dear, looks like another phone call! Meanwhile the belt I can indeed pick and choose among the patterns sent. Originally the patterns on the belt were very locality specific, so for the general area the overall "look" was the same but by looking at the belt one knew where each person was from.
My Inkle Loom to weave the belt on is in the post. The wool to spin to weave the pattern of the belt is is the post. The high speed flier to spin the cotton to weave the belt is waiting until after Twelfth Night to be made, then sent, then I must learn to spin cotton before I can weave the belt!!! It looks like I am forced to concentrate on learning cut work embroidery skills while dreaming of ikat and belt weaving.
I have done my daily spinning. Now is time to walk the mutts and the enjoy the three books my sister sent: The Ocean of His Words, Prophet's Daughter, and Spiritual Intelligence. Reading the three introductions last night didn't exactly clarify which one I would prefer to read first, but each has a completely different appeal.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Progress Report 2
December 1 2009.
Yesterday was my first progress report on my Finnish National Dress project. I am not undertaking to make one of each Finnish National Dresses, but do just want to share with you a wee bit of the variety. Here is a link http://www.kansallispuvut.fi/puvut.htm to many of the Finnish National dresses available. When - if - you go there, you will see it is basically just a series of links. Most will bring up a picture of the particular National Dress from that location. Some will bring up a verbal description. What does not happen, yet, is you do not get to see that location light up on the map of Finland, so you must get a very good map or atlas out to find all these locations.
For each of these dresses the details must be exact. If the blouse is linen, do not think to try cotton or even a linen/cotton blend. If you do not like hats or head gear then do not think of selecting one that has something worn on the head! Jewelry, footwear, socks... even the number, color and arrangement of stripes: it is all in the details.
I hope you're beginning to develop a mild appreciation for the magnitude of undertaking the making of ONE Finnish National dress - and it is not on the link here, but please don't let that discourage you from having a good long look at the scope, color and variety that is shown here. Please ogle!
As promised this is a progress report. Today I learned that my wool has just left so it might not be here next week but the week after. That means I ought to return to that cutwork embroidery practice. I am a bit confused and will have to call Eija tomorrow. Eija is the person who knows all the details about the National Dress that I will make (patience, I will show it to you soon enough and well before mine is completed). I have a marvelous text Högsäng och Klädbod by Hjördis Dahl - in Swedish which I am totally unfamiliar with, but which helpful friends like Leila and my teacher Ritva translate interesting snippets of. Anyway it seems that originally - or at least as far back as records were kept - my blouse was made of cotton, yet I am supposed to be making mine of 50% Linen 50% Cotton, and I would prefer to make it of linen. But as I said: making a Finnish National Dress is a matter of fine details, so I cannot be swayed by personal whim. You see I LIKE doing the cutwork embroidery on Linen. I can see the warp and weft threads. It is almost impossible to see them with 100% cotton and I am finding it very difficult with the 50/50 blend. So I'll call Eija and ask.
The other "progress" aspect to report on is that the package from Eija arrived today - so now I have more instructions: instructions for the belt, instructions for the skirt and apron, and two samples, one of wool yarn - a dark blue, almost navy, 2 ply, about 17 wpi - and a four ply white cotton. And these lovely supplies bring a plethora of other questions: is this wool the same as is used in the skirt and apron, or thicker? Should I make all of the belt patterns, or just one, or some or is there an order to the patterns? The cutwork lace pattern is just part of the whole lace - does she have details for the rest? Can I use other patterns also?
Tomorrow is Puikkoset. We're meeting here. I'm supposed to share something about spinning and dying silk. I will try to let you know what Eija says and send you a link to the dress that I am endeavoring to undertake and make. Meanwhile back to spinning!
Smiles,
Susanne
Yesterday was my first progress report on my Finnish National Dress project. I am not undertaking to make one of each Finnish National Dresses, but do just want to share with you a wee bit of the variety. Here is a link http://www.kansallispuvut.fi/puvut.htm to many of the Finnish National dresses available. When - if - you go there, you will see it is basically just a series of links. Most will bring up a picture of the particular National Dress from that location. Some will bring up a verbal description. What does not happen, yet, is you do not get to see that location light up on the map of Finland, so you must get a very good map or atlas out to find all these locations.
For each of these dresses the details must be exact. If the blouse is linen, do not think to try cotton or even a linen/cotton blend. If you do not like hats or head gear then do not think of selecting one that has something worn on the head! Jewelry, footwear, socks... even the number, color and arrangement of stripes: it is all in the details.
I hope you're beginning to develop a mild appreciation for the magnitude of undertaking the making of ONE Finnish National dress - and it is not on the link here, but please don't let that discourage you from having a good long look at the scope, color and variety that is shown here. Please ogle!
As promised this is a progress report. Today I learned that my wool has just left so it might not be here next week but the week after. That means I ought to return to that cutwork embroidery practice. I am a bit confused and will have to call Eija tomorrow. Eija is the person who knows all the details about the National Dress that I will make (patience, I will show it to you soon enough and well before mine is completed). I have a marvelous text Högsäng och Klädbod by Hjördis Dahl - in Swedish which I am totally unfamiliar with, but which helpful friends like Leila and my teacher Ritva translate interesting snippets of. Anyway it seems that originally - or at least as far back as records were kept - my blouse was made of cotton, yet I am supposed to be making mine of 50% Linen 50% Cotton, and I would prefer to make it of linen. But as I said: making a Finnish National Dress is a matter of fine details, so I cannot be swayed by personal whim. You see I LIKE doing the cutwork embroidery on Linen. I can see the warp and weft threads. It is almost impossible to see them with 100% cotton and I am finding it very difficult with the 50/50 blend. So I'll call Eija and ask.
The other "progress" aspect to report on is that the package from Eija arrived today - so now I have more instructions: instructions for the belt, instructions for the skirt and apron, and two samples, one of wool yarn - a dark blue, almost navy, 2 ply, about 17 wpi - and a four ply white cotton. And these lovely supplies bring a plethora of other questions: is this wool the same as is used in the skirt and apron, or thicker? Should I make all of the belt patterns, or just one, or some or is there an order to the patterns? The cutwork lace pattern is just part of the whole lace - does she have details for the rest? Can I use other patterns also?
Tomorrow is Puikkoset. We're meeting here. I'm supposed to share something about spinning and dying silk. I will try to let you know what Eija says and send you a link to the dress that I am endeavoring to undertake and make. Meanwhile back to spinning!
Smiles,
Susanne
Monday, November 30, 2009
Very long time, no blog
I see it has been over 6 months since I last posted anything. Since May my computer had two meltdowns, the second requiring a new hard drive, so with all the excitement of saving and restoring programs, functions, and files, blogging was not a top priority. Hopefully no one has been holding their breath, though undoubtedly passing out would make their autonomic system kick in again and bring them back to their senses when they woke up.
I have no pictures today, nothing to show but a few words. Yesterday I watched Julia and Julie and reflected on that interesting combination. So I have decided to try to do something a wee bit similar though not with food. This fall I have embarked upon a course in making Finnish National Dress (Kansallispuvun ompelimen - pardon my bad Finnish). After a few tense moments the teacher - Ritva - and and I began to settle on a dress...
For those who do not know about Finnish National Dress, there are over a hundred different ones. They are linked to local culture and old handicraft styles. More on those in a later post. The important thing is to realize that in selecting one - no mix and match here - one must "do" the whole thing. Some people buy them ready made (the formerly rich - formerly because after paying for a ready made National Dress, one will no longer be rich!). Many buy a piece or two ready made and complete other parts themselves. Some buy the fabrics. The more daring (or those most desperately low budget) buy the yarns and do the weaving. I am condescending to buy the blouse material and probably the material to make the vest, but I might even buy the vest ready made. However, I intend to spin the yarn for the skirt, the apron and the belt, dye it, and weave it myself, and I will do the cut work lace for the blouse myself. So I will be giving progress reports as I go. Hopefully someone will gain insights and appreciation for Finnish National dress.
Here is where I start - Progress Report 1: lacking sheep of my own (and also lacking space to keep sheep) I have ordered the wool which I will spin. The patterns I need for all "parts" should arrive tomorrow. I have the cotton, needed for the belt, and have ordered a lace flier for my Ashford Traditional so I can spin the cotton - after learning to spin cotton. I am cutting my teeth on cutwork embroidery on various "practice swatches" of different fabrics. The "how to" details for the cutwork embroidery pattern(s) that I "need" will arrive tomorrow with the patterns.
As soon as I redownload and reinstall the program to download digital pictures again you will see "progress" pictures. Meanwhile I leave you to anticipate, while I go spin.
Smiles,
Susanne
I have no pictures today, nothing to show but a few words. Yesterday I watched Julia and Julie and reflected on that interesting combination. So I have decided to try to do something a wee bit similar though not with food. This fall I have embarked upon a course in making Finnish National Dress (Kansallispuvun ompelimen - pardon my bad Finnish). After a few tense moments the teacher - Ritva - and and I began to settle on a dress...
For those who do not know about Finnish National Dress, there are over a hundred different ones. They are linked to local culture and old handicraft styles. More on those in a later post. The important thing is to realize that in selecting one - no mix and match here - one must "do" the whole thing. Some people buy them ready made (the formerly rich - formerly because after paying for a ready made National Dress, one will no longer be rich!). Many buy a piece or two ready made and complete other parts themselves. Some buy the fabrics. The more daring (or those most desperately low budget) buy the yarns and do the weaving. I am condescending to buy the blouse material and probably the material to make the vest, but I might even buy the vest ready made. However, I intend to spin the yarn for the skirt, the apron and the belt, dye it, and weave it myself, and I will do the cut work lace for the blouse myself. So I will be giving progress reports as I go. Hopefully someone will gain insights and appreciation for Finnish National dress.
Here is where I start - Progress Report 1: lacking sheep of my own (and also lacking space to keep sheep) I have ordered the wool which I will spin. The patterns I need for all "parts" should arrive tomorrow. I have the cotton, needed for the belt, and have ordered a lace flier for my Ashford Traditional so I can spin the cotton - after learning to spin cotton. I am cutting my teeth on cutwork embroidery on various "practice swatches" of different fabrics. The "how to" details for the cutwork embroidery pattern(s) that I "need" will arrive tomorrow with the patterns.
As soon as I redownload and reinstall the program to download digital pictures again you will see "progress" pictures. Meanwhile I leave you to anticipate, while I go spin.
Smiles,
Susanne
Friday, May 15, 2009
Dandelions and Yoga
Today two enterprising young entrepreneurs (aged four?) knocked on my door, selling lovely fresh bouquets of dandelions - for 5 Euro a pop. I did admire those lovely fresh flowers, which are coming up everywhere, but was too frugal to take the leap. I am not sure if I wonder more about their success, their price, or what they would have done with the money if I had bought the flowers.
The other day, I think it was Tuesday, I began to do yoga again. My legs have taken to feeling pins & needles too much of the time due to all the sitting I do. After spending the morning walking - with no improvement, I decided more drastic action was necessary to "stir things up" in my sluggish ageing sedentary system, so I unburied my yoga book and began. Gracious how STIFF I am! I remember being able to get into most of the yoga positions once upon a time many moons ago. Not any more. Not anywhere NEAR. No matter. I will give myself a year to limber up building slowly ... actually rebuilding. Now my morning routine includes some yoga. Already I am feeling the results: muscles waking up, mumbling sleepily "you wanted us again?" I am trying to coax them awake. The thing I really notice is that after doing the little that I do I really feel much more alive. Good thing too!
Smiles,
Susanne
The other day, I think it was Tuesday, I began to do yoga again. My legs have taken to feeling pins & needles too much of the time due to all the sitting I do. After spending the morning walking - with no improvement, I decided more drastic action was necessary to "stir things up" in my sluggish ageing sedentary system, so I unburied my yoga book and began. Gracious how STIFF I am! I remember being able to get into most of the yoga positions once upon a time many moons ago. Not any more. Not anywhere NEAR. No matter. I will give myself a year to limber up building slowly ... actually rebuilding. Now my morning routine includes some yoga. Already I am feeling the results: muscles waking up, mumbling sleepily "you wanted us again?" I am trying to coax them awake. The thing I really notice is that after doing the little that I do I really feel much more alive. Good thing too!
Smiles,
Susanne
Monday, May 4, 2009
colts foot, birthday, and horsetail
It has been too long since I last posted anything. I think of things while out with the dogs but never seem to have time to post them. A few weeks ago I saw my first spring flowers, small yellow coltsfoot -Tussilago for those who want the botanical name. Now they are popping up all over the place. Soon enough they will give way to the larger dandylions.
Among the things I've been dong is this very tiny drop spindle. made specifically for doing a very fine yarn of Merino - that's the back wool - so I can darn my store bought Merino wool socks. I put a few coins and AA size battaries next to the spindle to convince you that it is really small!
I also had another birthday - celbrated with the family over a pancake - actually waffle - breakfast. In the evening I visited friends. We had planned to watch the old Disney movie The Miracle of the White Stallions but we couldn't connect my American DVD player to their TV. So we watched Hairspray instead. We had a good homemade pizza and I made a cake. Very good evening!
On Saturday I saw the first horsetail - Equisetum arvense, so spring is sprung. And over a week ago I finally finished weaving the shawls that have been on my big Toika loom for almost two years! I suppose that requires a photo or two.
This is the folded shawl - one of two. and below is a closeup of the pattern:
Among the things I've been dong is this very tiny drop spindle. made specifically for doing a very fine yarn of Merino - that's the back wool - so I can darn my store bought Merino wool socks. I put a few coins and AA size battaries next to the spindle to convince you that it is really small!
I also had another birthday - celbrated with the family over a pancake - actually waffle - breakfast. In the evening I visited friends. We had planned to watch the old Disney movie The Miracle of the White Stallions but we couldn't connect my American DVD player to their TV. So we watched Hairspray instead. We had a good homemade pizza and I made a cake. Very good evening!
On Saturday I saw the first horsetail - Equisetum arvense, so spring is sprung. And over a week ago I finally finished weaving the shawls that have been on my big Toika loom for almost two years! I suppose that requires a photo or two.
This is the folded shawl - one of two. and below is a closeup of the pattern:
I took the loom apart, cleaned thoroughly, and was desperate for something to weave, so I found a ready warp in the supplies I inherited with my loom. I am not sure if this is sisal or hemp but it is about 10 yards long and some of it will become the weft. As soon as I get some help the next project will be plain weave runner carpets! Carpets will be much appreciated by the mutts for good back scratching! I will have a dreaful time keeping the carpets clean because of the dog fur. Currently I don't have carpets at all and really don't miss the fuss and bother! So I do wonder why I am making them! Maybe I can keep them "for guests..."
The first picture below shows the warp in its chain - so you can enjoy the lovely colors - and the second shows the warp is actually on the back beam but not yet wound on.
Monday, April 13, 2009
More Whatnot
The thing about blogs is one needs time to do them. Time seems to be in short supply at my place. Every time I think I have an opportunity t come to my blog something else comes up. Two weeks ago it was a sick dog - May - who withdrew and shivered and was very unhappy. So I spent a weekend nursing her - made chicken soup and all sort of nice tempting things - mainly to get her to drink and to keep her spirits up.
Then last week I remembered I had specifc tasks to do and of course they take time. I wasn't helped by friends loaning me books. I love books -good ones- and I devour them. Most recently I have consumed The Curse of Chalion and happen to think it's one of the best books I've ever read. Today I returned it or I will read it again... for the eighth time. Today I finished Suite Francoise. Definitely worth the read, but I didn't plow through it non stop the way I usually do. It took great effort not to.
I also finally forced myself back to spinning, and weaving. I've almost finished a project that's been on my big Toika loom for almost two years. And my little Ashford Knitter's Loom is constantly in action. I finished the "ontelo" - a double weave one color on one side and anther color on the other - very warm! Then I did a fancy lace scarf (leno) and now am doing something that is a waffle weave - hopefully will be hand towels made of bamboo yarn. My spinning is still on that lovely rich bown that Heather sent me for Christmas. I'm spinning a fine yarn (currently singles only) and when the bobbins are stuffed I will ply it. If I had a LOT more of it I would weave a skirt. One bobbin is stuffed and the other is almost stuffed. Maybe by my birthday... Actually I plan to finish the weavings by Wednesday - wish me luck!
Today I went to the family's for lunch - yummy pesto spaghetti with two diferent sauces. Then we walked to Maso. It's really in bad shape. Poor house. The walk was nice. The kids - except for Joakim - on bikes... Anisa took a tumble off hers onto the road - fortunately no traffic, but it gave us a fright. We all think that she'll slow down once the training wheels are off.
I'm sure I've done something else recently, but one thing crowds out another, and soon - with all the new stuff- I've forgotten the old. Such is life!
Smiles,
Susanne
Then last week I remembered I had specifc tasks to do and of course they take time. I wasn't helped by friends loaning me books. I love books -good ones- and I devour them. Most recently I have consumed The Curse of Chalion and happen to think it's one of the best books I've ever read. Today I returned it or I will read it again... for the eighth time. Today I finished Suite Francoise. Definitely worth the read, but I didn't plow through it non stop the way I usually do. It took great effort not to.
I also finally forced myself back to spinning, and weaving. I've almost finished a project that's been on my big Toika loom for almost two years. And my little Ashford Knitter's Loom is constantly in action. I finished the "ontelo" - a double weave one color on one side and anther color on the other - very warm! Then I did a fancy lace scarf (leno) and now am doing something that is a waffle weave - hopefully will be hand towels made of bamboo yarn. My spinning is still on that lovely rich bown that Heather sent me for Christmas. I'm spinning a fine yarn (currently singles only) and when the bobbins are stuffed I will ply it. If I had a LOT more of it I would weave a skirt. One bobbin is stuffed and the other is almost stuffed. Maybe by my birthday... Actually I plan to finish the weavings by Wednesday - wish me luck!
Today I went to the family's for lunch - yummy pesto spaghetti with two diferent sauces. Then we walked to Maso. It's really in bad shape. Poor house. The walk was nice. The kids - except for Joakim - on bikes... Anisa took a tumble off hers onto the road - fortunately no traffic, but it gave us a fright. We all think that she'll slow down once the training wheels are off.
I'm sure I've done something else recently, but one thing crowds out another, and soon - with all the new stuff- I've forgotten the old. Such is life!
Smiles,
Susanne
Friday, March 27, 2009
unabashed recommendation
As the title says, this is predominantly an unabashed recommendation. That gets this praise? Well if you like classical music - wfmt (www.wfmt.com) from which I enjoy live music direct from Chicago. It always tickles me to hear the time -always at odds with Finland- and weather -frequently at odds with Finland. I think the ads are... well I am digressing so I will be silent.
Of course I do not love everything I hear, but I am amazed at how much I do enjoy. Some of it I am even rediscovering. Things that I had loved as a kid I am actually learning the names of and who composed them... though I have to say that my filing system is as dreadful as my memory, I cannot find my list of names! I did find one: Khachaturian'sGayna Ballet Suite... and I think I was listening to Lohengrin... Drat! I really must improve my filing system! It is a good thing my head is still attached or I'd never find it! Remember: someone report me to the authorities if I forget my own name!
I use real Player (not an advertisement!) and watch Annabelle the Sheep. Once Annabelle even went to sleep! Amazing. And that brings Maso to mind and wanting 4 sheep - Maso has enough land to support 4 sheep. I've named my four imaginary sheep: Kerma (Cream - white wool), Cacao (Coco - dk brown wool), Kahvi (Coffee with very dk brwn/blk wool) and Keksi (Cookie -light tan wool). I like the naturally colored wools and if I need to dye wool I can always get a fifth sheep (white wool) Sokeri (Sugar). Ive saving dried onion skins for dying - nice rich orange. But of course I'd also want at least two milk goats as well (shades of my years at the US National Historic Site: the Carl Sandburg Home in East Flat Rock NC and memories of Mrs. Sandburg's Jennifer II who produced as much milk as most cows.
Yesterday I made wood finish/preservative/wax - bee's wax and Walnut oil. Breaker lapped up most of the oil, so I had to replace it. It's biodegradable and no poisonous. Also good for dry hands. I needed something to finish a small Niddy Noddy. Looks good now!
I'm off to do some language checking, a job application and a dissertation proposal. All need to be ready by Monday.
Smiles,
Susanne
Of course I do not love everything I hear, but I am amazed at how much I do enjoy. Some of it I am even rediscovering. Things that I had loved as a kid I am actually learning the names of and who composed them... though I have to say that my filing system is as dreadful as my memory, I cannot find my list of names! I did find one: Khachaturian'sGayna Ballet Suite... and I think I was listening to Lohengrin... Drat! I really must improve my filing system! It is a good thing my head is still attached or I'd never find it! Remember: someone report me to the authorities if I forget my own name!
I use real Player (not an advertisement!) and watch Annabelle the Sheep. Once Annabelle even went to sleep! Amazing. And that brings Maso to mind and wanting 4 sheep - Maso has enough land to support 4 sheep. I've named my four imaginary sheep: Kerma (Cream - white wool), Cacao (Coco - dk brown wool), Kahvi (Coffee with very dk brwn/blk wool) and Keksi (Cookie -light tan wool). I like the naturally colored wools and if I need to dye wool I can always get a fifth sheep (white wool) Sokeri (Sugar). Ive saving dried onion skins for dying - nice rich orange. But of course I'd also want at least two milk goats as well (shades of my years at the US National Historic Site: the Carl Sandburg Home in East Flat Rock NC and memories of Mrs. Sandburg's Jennifer II who produced as much milk as most cows.
Yesterday I made wood finish/preservative/wax - bee's wax and Walnut oil. Breaker lapped up most of the oil, so I had to replace it. It's biodegradable and no poisonous. Also good for dry hands. I needed something to finish a small Niddy Noddy. Looks good now!
I'm off to do some language checking, a job application and a dissertation proposal. All need to be ready by Monday.
Smiles,
Susanne
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Whatnot
It’s 3 am. I am normally an early riser, but this is very early for me. I’m online to help someone in Mexico orient themselves to an online course. While I wait for them to install skype, I thought I might catch up with myself. This particular blog is wandering text, no pictures.
I want to start with Maso. Yes that is m a s o. It’s the name of a place – actually an old farm – near me. I first saw it some two ? years ago when walking across the lake (frozen ice, mid winter). This winter I was doing the same – the lake route cuts considerable time off getting to Funlayo and Kimmo’s – and really began studying the place. Now if I had the money I’d love to have it and restore it. At first glance all seems fine. On closer look the shore side sauna tilts, the cellar is gaping and the building above it has fallen. The barn roof has collapsed… Now I entertain myself generating terrifyingly long lists of all the probable things that would need to be done to salvage the place.
In the last two of my “over the ice” visits to Maso; I noticed that the ice was getting squishy. Water was seeping up from below. On the second of these visits I moved to the firmer packed lake ice roads –farther from Maso’s shore line, but which didn’t have the dogs’ paws drawing water. I was having visions of all of us vanishing to a cold wet quiet world. Now I take the terra firma foot path to Maso.
Speaking of ice – this time on footpaths – I love stomping on it and making it crack. It feels like a civic duty to get rid of it.
Speaking of civic duties, I have been regularly trying to get the city to turn off the big lights on the football field (snow covered and “closed” for winter). We managed to get the lights on the footpaths turned off. Then they got turned on. Then the big lights started spending the nights on – earlier they had only been on in the early morning – some time after midnight. Time for another call.
Well I should get on with my day now – it’s 4:30 am, but daylight savings time is about to begin so this is good practice. I know I have about twenty seven thousand eight hundred and fifty three other things to tell you, but they will just have to go unsaid for now.
Smiles,
Susanne
I want to start with Maso. Yes that is m a s o. It’s the name of a place – actually an old farm – near me. I first saw it some two ? years ago when walking across the lake (frozen ice, mid winter). This winter I was doing the same – the lake route cuts considerable time off getting to Funlayo and Kimmo’s – and really began studying the place. Now if I had the money I’d love to have it and restore it. At first glance all seems fine. On closer look the shore side sauna tilts, the cellar is gaping and the building above it has fallen. The barn roof has collapsed… Now I entertain myself generating terrifyingly long lists of all the probable things that would need to be done to salvage the place.
In the last two of my “over the ice” visits to Maso; I noticed that the ice was getting squishy. Water was seeping up from below. On the second of these visits I moved to the firmer packed lake ice roads –farther from Maso’s shore line, but which didn’t have the dogs’ paws drawing water. I was having visions of all of us vanishing to a cold wet quiet world. Now I take the terra firma foot path to Maso.
Speaking of ice – this time on footpaths – I love stomping on it and making it crack. It feels like a civic duty to get rid of it.
Speaking of civic duties, I have been regularly trying to get the city to turn off the big lights on the football field (snow covered and “closed” for winter). We managed to get the lights on the footpaths turned off. Then they got turned on. Then the big lights started spending the nights on – earlier they had only been on in the early morning – some time after midnight. Time for another call.
Well I should get on with my day now – it’s 4:30 am, but daylight savings time is about to begin so this is good practice. I know I have about twenty seven thousand eight hundred and fifty three other things to tell you, but they will just have to go unsaid for now.
Smiles,
Susanne
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Shawl and stuff
Here is my new shawl. It is triangle shape and crocheted with some lovely wool my dear friend Heather sent me ages ago. I started spinning it as soon as I got the wool out of the box. That's before I had a spinning wheel. I began this shawl as soon as I took the yarn off the spindle. That part of the shawl - which you can't see here - is heavier weight. Then I got my Ashford spinning wheel and spun the rest of this wool into a must finer single (the yarn is not plyed). Yes it changes color from deep blues and rich greens to lighter violets. It is lovely wool and a beautiful color. Thank you Heather!
And I made a baby hat using my Ashford Knitter's Loom. Does anyone need a winter baby hat for a wee girl?
And this is the tunic that goes well with the hat (same warp, different weft). It is open on the sides and closes with ties that are woven into the fabric. 80% wool AND machine washable in Warm water. Again if you're looking for a gift for a winter baby girl - tell me!
And here are the mutts -enjoying the good life on my bed. In fact as I write they are in almost the same position now...
Smiles,
And this is the tunic that goes well with the hat (same warp, different weft). It is open on the sides and closes with ties that are woven into the fabric. 80% wool AND machine washable in Warm water. Again if you're looking for a gift for a winter baby girl - tell me!
And here are the mutts -enjoying the good life on my bed. In fact as I write they are in almost the same position now...
Smiles,Susanne
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Where have I been?
Where have I been? Actually I haven't left town at all. First I had a visitor then I had the flu. Before the flu "struck me down" I manged to finish knitting my mittens - you can find an earlier blog where I wrote about the wool.
And below is more of the tri-color wool my daughter ordered (skein 4 and 5) for a sweater she is knitting. This is Corriedale wool from New Zealand (Ashford) in their Pansy (pink), Lilac and Magenta. When the sweater is done I'll have to get a picture of it too.
And while I was down witht the flue I started knitting a hat - you'll see that when it is done... but let me say here that the "pattern" I was following ... well, it was more complicated than my skill level. So don't expect too much.
Remember the pictures of my grandgirls spinning? Well below on the left is some of the wool they carded - I spun it. The white is rather thin and I will be carding (and washing and carding) and spinning much more just like it. It is thin so it can be woven. This is my sample. I plan on making a waffle weave blanket. The tan on the right is one of my favorites: more Coburger Fox Sheep. This one is incredibly soft and nicely lofty. It will be warm and cuddly.
And below is more of the tri-color wool my daughter ordered (skein 4 and 5) for a sweater she is knitting. This is Corriedale wool from New Zealand (Ashford) in their Pansy (pink), Lilac and Magenta. When the sweater is done I'll have to get a picture of it too.
Smiles,
Susanne
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