Weaver Stories - Kim
Weaving is our safe space and sanctuary.
The fibre arts seem to truly be a way to heal both emotional and physical injuries. Mary Black (Author of The Key to Weaving) knew this when she used weaving as physiotherapy for soldiers returning home and we seem to know it instinctively!
This week we are going to hear from Kim. I think that her story is one that many of us can relate to. How many of us view weaving as our “safe place” or a sanctuary from the world? We have the chance to take a deep breath, slow down and release the pent-up anxieties within us.
Here is Kim’s weaving story:
These are some of Kim’s weaves…and I think that’s a tapestry loom we see too!
I started weaving about five or six years ago. I had a severe head trauma that left me, shall I say, "different". Poor memory, attention span, etc. I took up spinning because it intrigued me and also became a kind of meditation helping with focus. However I did not know how to knit or weave. So out to bookstores to find books to help me learn. I am still very much a beginner as I live alone and in a rural area and am a slow learner but I absolutely love the process. I can give myself permission to go slow cuz that's the only way to go. I have since been diagnosed with early AD and the medication prescribed has given me a whole new perspective and focus so I can now complete projects. I was diagnosed in mid-May, meds kicked in by mid-June. Point being I have woven and learned more in a month then I had in all the years before. My hope now is to find a teacher so I can achieve more of my goals. I have a massive collection of many different looms because every time I was not able to figure one out I thought maybe another would be easier. Nope. I have got the rigid heddle down (sort of) so now onto a four-shaft. Learning Krokbragd is my ultimate goal. Anyhow spinning and weaving are my most ecstatic joys, which I live for and do every day. Life is a blessing and even the darkest times can evolve into something bright and beautiful. I hope everyone can find their joy and bliss in creativity.
All the best and warmest regards,
Kim
Kim, thank you so much for sharing your joy as well as your pain with us. May weaving always bring you joy and best of luck in your continued weaving journey!
Kim mentions books helped her learn. I thought I’d share my favourite books.
The first, and my all-time favourite, is The Weaver’s Idea Book by Jane Patrick. This got me started and I still refer back to it when I want inspiration.
The next is Inventive Weaving on a Little Loom by Syne Mitchell. Syne has great pictures and lots of creative ideas.
I love reading your stories! If you would like to share your weaving journey, be it just beginning or a lifetime, please email me at: tammy@therogueweaver.com.
