Virtual museum visit: The Future Museum of South West Scotland makes many of their exhibits available for viewing and exploration online. Love this collection of items showing the history and evolution of Sanquhar Knitting. Sanquhar knitting, at its peak in the 18th century, features very distinct patterning, always worked in black and white, and was typically used for gloves. There are many objects for viewing, beautifully photographed, with lots of background information. I also loved the collection of vintage knitting patterns.
Fabulous story about Phyllis Doyle, a British spy who used knitting to conceal codes while working behind enemy lines during World War Two. Her story is incredible enough, even without the knitting connection.
Interesting discussion about where craft is going, and cultural shifts in the industry: designer Karie Westermann writes a thoughtful and thought-provoking analysis of trends she’s seeing in the craft culture and industry (and yes, it is an industry). And Ellen Gill has written an equally interesting and important post in response. You may not agree with everything they say, but their thinking is important.
Fun, on the LoveKnitting blog! 10 Things You Don’t Know About Knitting! Did you know that the first knitting book was written in the 17th century? I didn’t!
And today in ‘Not Strictly Knitting But Still Very Cool’. If you’re anywhere near Toronto this summer, get yourself to the Textile Museum of Canada. Two things there merit your attention: the annual More Than Just A Yardage Sale, May 29 & 30th, is a fundraiser for the museum. It’s a sale of textiles and related items: fabrics, yarn, books, notions and supplies. There’s always a selection of vintage clothes, and I adore digging around in the UFOs piles. The inventory comes from donations, and many crafters donate unloved projects. I’ve bought half-complete projects to salvage tools and yarn and patterns.
And the other item is an exhibition: Artist Textiles: From Picasso to Warhol. Curated by British collectors Geoffrey Rayner and Richard Chamberlain, the exhibition features a rarely-seen selection of more than 200 printed textiles designed by some of the 20th century’s preeminent artists. It runs until October 4th.
Karie Westermann brings up some really thought provoking points. Thanks for that link. I hadn’t read her before but now I definitely will. I especially enjoy how the response blog post by Ellen Gill describes you as a scrappy revolutionary.
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