Today I’m sharing a little insight into part of my creative process.  One thing I always talk about is my love of color and texture.  Working with fiber allows me to use my color theory knowledge to mix up some exciting and one-of-a-kind color combos. The textural aspect come in when I’m continually transforming the fiber, from start to finish, dyeing, carding, spinning and knitting.

It’s very satisfying to watch things “come to life” and for me, feels similar to a painter, carefully considering color and composition. Though some combinations are random, most are made with specific intentions.

Creating a fiber batt starts with the fiber.  I generally source local fiber and enjoy using alpaca with accents of wool for support and lofty yarn. Most of the dyed fiber I have was hand-dyed by me, using a truly unique dye that a friend brought back from Peru.  These unique dyes use a plant and mineral base to create vibrant, rich color.  More about the dye another day…

Sometimes I grab from a pile of fiber, other times I line it up purposefully beforehand. Next, the carding machine.  Those not familiar with carding machines can find a video online:  “Blending colors on a drum carder”

After you’ve blended the colors, you gently “peel” the fibers off the carding machine and roll into a fiber batt! *Ta Da*! Now it’s ready for spinning or felting!