Saturday, September 17, 2011

A Few Small Truths

  For me, at least, weaving is an on going learning experience.  Case in point:  my self imposed challenge of a tote a day!

  Yes....it's do-able.  But, only if I have the weft ready to go.  So far, no two totes have been alike.  (That might tell you volumes about the amount of stash I have on hand!)

  I finished the small tote woven with the '70's curtain valance with no delays....no big deal.  But, the large tote with the other valance ate up weft like there was no tomorrow!!!!  It was thinner fabric, and it packed in very tightly.

  In the meantime, I pulled some small prints for the next large tote.  I like to join them end to end, and make a tube that is off-set to put through the rag cutter.

  These are the five pieces I selected for the next tote.

  And this is how they look in the warp.  I am always amazed at the patterns that develop.  (OK....it doesn't take much to amuse me!)

  Another truth:  I really love doing mixed fabric totes!  The production part is slower, but I love the results.  And, I enjoy the search for the next best combination of fabric. 
  The search hasn't been great for my small totes....so my next challenge will be to pull fabrics that will go with my cappuccino warp.  I have pulled three pieces so far, but surely there are more!!!!
  These are the strips coming off the rag cutter for the next large tote.  The truth is, I have a lot of blue prints that I can use in my weaving!

  Another BIG truth is that my cutting table is getting full of tote bags that need to be finished.  I need to change out the threads on my other serger and get it ready to finish  the cappuccino warp bags.  (I have to admit, I just tie on the new color and pull them through!)
  Since today is shaping up to be cool and gray, it's a good day to stay inside and weave.  The leaves are already starting to fall, so I need to get as much done inside as I can before I have to start raking in earnest.
  I'm ready to see those beautiful fall colors!!!!
Happy Weaving!
LouAnn

6 comments:

Tina J said...

Way to go Lou Ann! I love the totes on the loom, and the pile of fabirc off the cutter. So inspiring! Have a great weaving day!

Bonnie said...

I have never seen somebody with so much material, besides the weaving center. And what beautiful colors to combine. Looks great.

Anonymous said...

Roxie sez
Blue is a good, marketable color. Yay that you have a lot! The totes are sooo cool!

Susan said...

They look great!! Very productive....

As for the serger thread: doesn't everyone just tie and pull through?

:) Susan

Linda said...

I have seen your cloth stash! It is impressive. Love the tote!

Theresa said...

Wow, I'm awed on so many levels, not the least what I imagine your stash to be, nor your stick-to-it-ness!