Filed under natural fibers …

Creativity and the Handmade Life

“…”I love my creative life more than I love cooperating with my own oppression.” If we were to abuse our children, Social Services would show up at our doors. If we were to abuse our pets, the Humane Society would come to take us away. But there is no Creativity Patrol or Soul Police if … Continue reading →

Cordage and a Worthwhile Hand Cramp

I did get a hand cramp.  But, it was worth it. Let me back up a bit. Working with my hands has always been healing.  And, recently, I had the chance to learn something new…something I had been wanting to learn…basic cordage making. My first imprint of the process was at a Chumash Cultural Day … Continue reading →

Brand Names and Small Crafters for Clean Threads

Something shifted in me around the time of my pregnancy back in 2017.  Even though I had owned my share of hemp and organic cotton clothing…and steadily sifted through the endless racks of thrift and consignment store shops for second hand threads…fibers…all of a sudden…became more of an interest for me. There was something about … Continue reading →

Kitchen Scrap Color, Plant Dye Explorations

I’ve been exploring plant dyeing lately and it is so much fun.  I think I’ve dyed everything cream, white, or off-white in our house.  My husband is considering hiding some of his boxers that are white. It has become a bit of an obsession, I admit. As an herbalist, I often looked to plants to … Continue reading →

Growing Color, Plant Dye Explorations

I’ve been working with plants ever since my permaculture design certificate course that I took in San Francisco in 2003.  The course made me look at my world in an entirely new way.  Where did my water come from?  What was the watershed I was in?  Where did the water go?  Which direction is east?  … Continue reading →

Medicine Wheel Practices

I finally have the medicine wheel bandanas in my hands.  These mobile, contemplative, folk art pieces were printed with soy-based ink (dark teal) on organic cotton bandanas (natural color). In my last post on the medicine wheel, I didn’t include information on the handout that comes with each bandana.  I’ve written out a few practices … Continue reading →

Fibers That Won’t Choke The World

With the little one on its way…I’ve been obsessing about fabrics, textiles, and yarns.  As an herbalist and plant-worker, I’ve always been drawn to natural fibers and plant dyes, but this nesting season has taken it to a whole new level. In addition to this, my increasing awareness of microplastics has deepened my commitment to … Continue reading →