In a previous post, I have mentioned how I have received a grant from the Whidbey Weavers Guild. My proposal is to explore the use of Earthues Natural Dyes to dye tapestry yarns. My ultimate goal is to weave tapestries using organically produced wool, dyed with the least toxic natural dyes as possible, and still have the color lightfast and durable. I had planned to do my own independent experimentation in this area regardless but the grant will allow me to expand my project and to present it in a more formal format in which I can share the results for many years to come.
Earthues is owned and operated by Michele Whipplinger and is located in Ballard, WA. Ballard is in the Seattle metropolitan area. If you are ever in the area, Earthues is definitely worth stopping by. Click on the Earthues link in the Fiber Links sidebar to read about this wonderful enterprise and find the store hours.
I could have ordered the dyes and had a few of my generous friends bring them up to me but I really wanted to enjoy a visit to Earthues and a day in the city. I drove down and spent a couple of hours ordering dyes, browsing the beautiful items in the store, and getting tips and advice from the knowledgeable women who were working that day. I have to say a special thank you to Sandra, Kaitlin, Kathy, and Dana with apologies if I have misspelled your names! When I loaded up my car with my order I felt like my birthday had come early. I went on to visit the Weaving Works, located in the University District of Seattle and a few other stops along the way home.
That evening I took out all of the dyes and made an inventory so I could begin to organize the project. I don't want to waste any of the precious dye!
I will be posting the details, pictures, and progress of this project over the next several months. Please stay tuned and be sure to visit the Earthues website, you will be glad you did!
Do you have a favorite fiber art store in your area?
Colorfully yours, -Renee
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