#i love fiber craft ladies

[vampyroteuthid]

yarn store was having a sale. barely escaped with my life no idea what i'm doing with the collateral damage

[rhysintherain]

Okay, who had "Rhys buys a big, complicated piece of equipment they may or may not actually finish a project on in the next 2 years" for their 2023 Tumblr fibre arts bingo?

Because I just bought a 24" table loom lol.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go hand carve some shuttles from my cedar kindling supply, since I spent all my money on a loom and can't afford tools...

[heavyknitter]

1 - How it started.

Two weeks ago I walked up 'n over to my aunt, who lives next door to me and asked her if she had some knitting needles and wool to show me how to do it. When I get the urge to do something, I need to do it right now, it can't wait, I need to ride this wave - thankfully my aunt is very much the same so she took one look at me, got up from her seat and started rifling through her stuff to find what I asked for. She used to be an expert knitter, but her eyesight is poor these days so she doesn't bother with that anymore - she is also, as I figured out quickly, not all that good at explaining shit. But eh, we made it work. We are both very kinaesthetic oriented learners and for her this is easy-peasy muscle memory and I had to remind her I have no context no idea how to loop what and where and more importantly, my hands may have a lot of muscle memory on various tasks but not this, none of that. So she manipulated my hand a bit until I got the idea of how and bäm. Suddenly I was knitting.

Well. I tried my best. It was a learning curve, thankfully a steep one. See, she cast on ten loops for me and did the first two rows to get me started and I jumped in and somehow made that 13 loops. That was fun because she of course asked me how the hell and I had no answer because we were at the bare bones, how to increase was not even a topic yet so idk what I did there.

Next issue, which I was not really surprised by if I am honest, was the fact that I was knitting too tightly. See, as artist I have the issue of gripping my pens too tight, so tight in fact that I sometimes cut off the blood circulation in my fingers while I draw detailed linework. I have compression opera gloves to mitigate that issue a bit and keep my hands and arms protected while I try to unlearn this. I also started embroidery in autumn of 2022 and there I like to pull the thread tight to make the embroidery neat and even, so.. both of these things worked against me a wee bit. But I worked on this little test piece for like three days straight to get the movement into my system. To get my grip under control. To get a rhythm going. (To make sure I will not add any more loops to a row than those 13 because seriously where the fuck did they come from.)

I mostly tried to get even rows but in the beginning I made some waves between tight loops and trying to loosen them again but eventually it clicked with my hands what I wanted them to do in terms of pressure and pull. My aunt is a darling you know? She said, those knitting needles are shit for the wool she had at hand but it will do for now, good enough to learn at least. And then she ran an errand the very next day and gave me some bulky as hell soft wool that has like.. the same feels as those soft synthetic cuddly blankets you can buy almost everywhere, so, perfect for me. And my first own knitting needles to go with that. And I showed her my test piece and how I slowly get a hang of it and she nodded in approval and praised how even my rows are getting and that made my brain go brr.

And one day after I did go into the city and hit up the store next to the train station and went a bit wild on buying wool - which is a theme for the next couple of days to be honest. I bought a lot of wool because I really wanted to have everything in house when I go wild. And thus I started on my first real project. A scarf that is more like a shawl because I really really misjudged how broad the bulky soft wool makes the thing. But more on that later I guess <3

[papermint-airplane]

15 questions for 15 mutuals

I was tagged by @simolemons, @satellite-sims, and @spaceapples98. Omg I feel so lovedddd 🥺🥺🥺🥺 thank you!

Are you named after anyone? Yep! I'm named after Laura Ingalls-Wilder, the writer of the Little House on the Prairie books. My mom was obsessed with the books and the 70s TV show for some ungodly reason. Fun fact, I hate LHotP with every fiber of my being. I'm fine with my name though.

When was the last time you cried? Oh God, it's been a turbulent few weeks. Pick a time, I've probably cried. 🙈

Do you have kids? No. Wait, let me rephrase that. GOD NO!!!!

Do you use sarcasm a lot? I feel like this question is a trap. I want to speak to my lawyer.

What sports do you play/have you played? I am not a sports person. I guess I have dabbled in the sweaty arts for fun every so often when I've lost my mind, but I've never really played on a team or a in a league or understood most sports on a basic level. Is the Sims a sport?

What’s the first thing you notice about other people? Probably their voice and their tone and the way they ask me what I'm doing in their house.

Scary movies or happy endings? It really depends on what is meant by "scary movies" because I don't do gore at all. Like Saw and shit? Absolutely not. Absolutely. not. But I do like suspenseful supernatural horror movies as long as there isn't much gore involved. I think I prefer movies with happy endings given a choice between only these two but I wouldn't say no to a good old fashioned bittersweet ending.

Any special talents? I can whistle really well. I practice a lot when I'm alone. I don't whistle for other people often because, funnily enough, despite your skill level, people find it incredibly annoying. Actually maybe being annoying is my special talent? 🤷‍♀️ Also I can do this thing where I can vibrate my right face cheek (I have to specify for you freaks) and make a sound like a horse. It's only the right face cheek, not the left. I don't know why.

Where were you born? Virginia! We didn't live there long after I was born so I don't really remember it but I've also lived in North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina. Southern through and through!

What are your hobbies? Sims, writing, writing for my Sims, Sim-themed writing, procrastinating writing Sims stories, miscellaneous video games, crafts, complaining, jewelry making (I'm not good at it, don't get excited), researching cults, and fashion doll collecting.

Do you have any pets? Sadly, no. It's kind of a struggle taking care of one person on my income but I'm hoping to save enough to where I can get a kitty or two and be reasonably comfortable with vet bills. I really, really, really love cats. I'm an orphaned cat lady at the moment.

How tall are you? 5'2" (roughly 159 cm). Smol, but not too smol, right at shin-kicking height.

Fave subject in school? English. Honestly liking any subject in school was a struggle because I was homeschooled and my mother is The Worst™ but English and Vocabulary and Creative Writing were my jam despite her best efforts.

Dream job? Are we talking realistic dreams or unrealistic-obviously-never-going-to-happen-but-I-like-to-fantasize dreams? If it's the former, I'd like to be an editor. If it's the latter, I'd like to be a professional kitten-cuddler.

Eye colour? Light green, bordering on light blue, but still obviously green if you look close. Kind of sea green, I guess. I've always struggled to describe my eye color and other people do, too. It's weirdly in between green and blue. If I were to remove my glasses and stare at you like 👁👁 you could very clearly see they're green, but otherwise, with my glasses on just looking at me like a normal person, you would be forgiven for thinking they're light blue. I'm not trying to be ✨unique✨ or anything; this is just what happens when your mom has blue eyes and your dad has hazel eyes and genetics just gives the fuck up.

I think most people have done this tag while I'm on semi-hiatus but let's just throw some names out there and see what sticks. 😈 @happy-lemon @monets-pixels @hurricanesims @moyokeansimblr @oasislandingresident @hazely-sims @treason-and-plot @ts3strayastray @miss-may-i @ktarsims @sharssims @amphoraeus @brannewjoint @autonomousllama @nocturnalazure

[lunarleopardblossoms]

Hi! Welcome to lunarleopardblossoms 🌙🌸

Figured it's time for a new pinned post with a little basic info about me and what I do 😊

*****

Hi! I am Shi-ra or Shi. Married, 25+ years old and European. I am a bit of a creative jack of all trades, dabbling in fiber works, (digital) art, writing, baking, programming, and finding ways to combine this with spirituality/divination!

I've only been actively involved with spirit for a few years and there's still a lot for me to learn! Everything I post is from my own experiences and if you feel I am saying something wrong, you are always free to let me know. My favorite spiritual topic is spirit guide work (including animals), and recently deity work as well! My main guiding light is lady Iris, followed by Luna and Aurora. Nyx and Zeus have shown up for and helped me as well and are a regular part of my practice at this point 😊 The Indian deity Waghoba is guiding me towards raising funds for snow leopard preservation (but that is a long path to walk and I'm just at the beginning).

I feel it is part of my purpose to create things that others can build upon. I love to make (free) resources for others to use, and it is my dream to create my own oracle and tarot decks. Things you can expect are decorated pendulum charts, zines, and cross stitch patterns you can use for devotional crafts 🥰 I am also starting my own Youtube channel with readings, spiritual themed (digital) paintings and other stuff that combines creativity and spirituality! Please follow if you're interested <3 And suggest topics you'd like me to cover! I can't do everything but I'd be happy to see what I can do :D

** Ko-Fi ** YouTube ** Website **

I consider myself friendly and am always open to receiving messages! Thank you for visiting and have a blessed day ❤️🌈

[enobullphotography]

Here's a quick digital Interlude... Cue Frank Sinatra's 'New York' On Wednesday the 29th I stayed around work for a few hours after my dismissal. Finally I would be shooting Manhattanhenge, after years of telling myself I HAD to get it.

Well, Mother Nature had other plans! Lol Manhattanhenge was canceled!! From as early as 7pm you could see the clouds were way too thick, the sky was dark, and it just looked like the sun snuck out the back door and clocked out early!

But if you're anything like me, then you make the best of every situation. Therefore the 3.5 hours leading up to what would become a postponed event were spent seated on a concrete divider on the corner of 34th & 7th. It was from that post I shot any and everyone who walked by as I waited for my brother to meet me.

We've all seen/heard the world famous "I ❤️ New York" slogan. Being on that corner (Or many corners in the city for that matter) remind me of that slogan, because it's there that you see every walk of life. Fashionistas, business men and women, children, pets, literally every single fiber that makes up the energy of the city crossing right in front of you.

So the evening wasn't a loss. I got a lot of fun shots. Shout outs to Miranda! The young lady who thought she was photo bombing when in reality the photo I was taking was of her as she posed. The young lady in the blue skirt on the scooter, and to the dude with the best shirt ever! Lmfao.

Being out there shooting up the city fell directly in line with my feelings of getting back to loving photography. I wasn't shooting for views, likes, the intention wasn't to beat or trick the algorithms, I was simply shooting... Enjoying my craft.

A few hours after I got this shot of the Empire State Building it was struck by lightning. I got to see it on IG, but was too late to get a shot myself. 😒 Lmao. Ahh well, I'll get it someday! Til then... I ❤️ New York! Eno Bull Photography

[randomfoggytiger]

MELISSA, The Soulful ISFP

Melissa Scully was a bit of a surprise-- I was expecting her to have high Extroverted Feeling (feeling and interpersonal connection expressed outwardly); but that was undercut by her strong, personal, moral system. Everything about her revolves around her beliefs; and how she helps and guides others with those beliefs. So, I tried to do her justice here with her strengths and weaknesses.

**Note**: This is likely filled with typos-- pardon my very tired editing brain~

MELISSA

The Hero Function: This function is the most effortless of the stack of eight, the “superhero” if you will; and serves as a Type's primary source. Introverted Feeling (Fi for short) leads with mood-based personal morals, values, beliefs, principles, and worth. ISFPs guide their lives with what they believe to be "right" rather than what is the "true" or "correct" way;

and are very proud about what they believe, integrating their morals into every fiber of their lives-- from personal expression to how they enact their principles upon the world. Because Fi is the source of independent morals, it draws others who lack or doubt their own to an ISFPs unflinching beliefs. This gives them ample opportunity to suggest or nudge others toward what they think is the right path-- whether that is true or not changes with each circumstance and set of variables.

The Parent Function: A Type's 2nd function is the responsible but slightly pessimistic "parent" of the hero function, helping it to fulfill necessary duties and develop maturity. Extroverted Sensing (Se for short) is "in the moment" personified. ISFPs live fully in the present, creating experiences to responsibly get other types out of ruts and comfort zones. They master creative pursuits (crafting or planting or hiking or sporting) to improve their loved one's life with hands-on, one-on-one bonding activities. They are most effective with Types that have high amounts of Introverted Sensing-- Scully, for instance (see here)-- serving as their healthy boundary-pusher and getting them to tune with just "being."

The Child Function: This function is the most idealistic of all the functions and causes the deepest wounds if “bullied.” Introverted Intuition (Ni for short) centers around personal destiny, desires, goals, willpower, and choice. ISFPs are ruled by their freedom of choice, following its guide in every area of their life. If this is stripped from them, they will be extinguished.

In a sense, Ni child serves as "lady luck" for an ISFP, allowing them to always land on their feet after a possibly deadly situation. They, somehow, usually come out on top, saving themselves and others in powerful and miraculous ways.

Ni Child also teams up with an ISFP's Fi Hero to make them very mood-based creators-- too often laziness is prescribed to them because they have yet to finish a project that has been "in progress" for years; when, in reality, ISFPs just aren't in an inspired mood or are slowly chipping away until, finally, it fall folds into completion.

The Inferior Function: The 4th function is the most important of the 8 functions, as it serves as the simultaneous zone for their fears, insecurities, and aspirations as well as their launching pad to the most powerful function (the Demon Function, see below.) Extroverted Thinking (Te for short) is rationale: inductions, metrics, rules, achievements, labels, standards, and reputations. While they are intensely soulful people, ISFPs are highly sensitive about their reputations: they are easily crushed by others' ridicule of their beliefs or ways of life.

These types strive for academic achievements or "book learning" not for learning's sake, but to increase their popularity and "clout" through cultural or historical knowledge. ISFPs are afraid of what others think of them-- they don't have to be good themselves as long as others think they are good-- and would rather quietly walk away from someone who has hurt them than confront them.

The Nemesis Function: This function is not only the 5th in a list of 8, but it is also the source of a Type's worry. Extroverted Feeling (Fe for short) deals with interpersonal ethics, acceptance, bonding, culture, mutual support, and balance. ISFPs are worried that they do not care enough: they put their own needs before others naturally (usually in a healthily selfish way); and hoard their own time and resources as well. In order to do away with their nagging doubts, these types need to reach out to others empathetically by donating themselves in a sense-- volunteering their time, energy, resources, or company to others and their pursuits. This soothes their concerns; and leaves their own personal touch on others' lives forever.

The Critic Function: The 6th function is a Type's most cynical aspect, greatest possibility for wisdom, and also the easiest place to rationalize a person out of their bad behavior. Introverted Sensing (Si for short) is focused on duty, honor, responsibility, habit, and security; but ISFPs don't like to commit while expecting it from others. They hate being obligated, leaving obligations behind to pursue whatever has caught their interest or passion.

They also have terrible memory; but can't seem to grasp how faulty it is. shrugging it off with a laissez-faire attitude of "it wasn't meant to be remembered." They will accept reproof if given proof they've been incorrect; but shrug off others' frustrations off with a laissez-faire attitude of "it wasn't meant to be remembered."

The Trickster Function: A Type's weakest function is their Extroverted Intuition (Ne for short): metaphysics and widespread consequences for society as a whole. Ne Trickster blinds ISFPs to the intentions of others-- leaving them vulnerable to plotting or manipulation-- and handicapping them to the potential consequences of their actions. To ISFPs, a possible problem doesn't exist until it smacks them in the face. Melissa always motivated Scully to ditch the conventional expectations of her life and go with what her "heart" told her to do (and pushing her to regain her repressed memories); but she was blinded to the harm it might (and did) cause her sister.

This led her and Scully down unnecessary paths of pain; but, while Missy would have seen it as a necessary part of life to fall into the same pit over and over, Scully was frightened further away from her intuition by repeated traumas, clinging tighter and tighter to provable, rational science. Her Trickster also grated on Mulder's nerves: his Ne Parent (see post here) saw all the disastrous consequences of her decisions, the Scully family decisions, their enemies' decisions, and his own decisions that led them to Scully's coma; and it infuriated Mulder that Melissa seemingly hand-waved it away as "entirely human."

The Demon Function:  And lastly, the strongest function of an ISFP's stack is their Introverted Thinking (Ti for short), which is unfiltered logical deduction based in facts rather than external opinions or sources. For ISFPs, no one else's opinions matter: they must have their say and be allowed to believe it. If no one takes the time to listen to their input or scoffs away their insight, ISFPs will wash their hands from guiding others, letting the fools implode in their own stupid decisions.

(In extreme cases, these Types will quietly craft a destructive Goldberg Variation machine-- either with words or social embarrassments or life-threatening traps-- and spring a doom suddenly upon their unsuspecting victim.) In Melissa's case, she warned Mulder one last time that his vengeful defeat would disappoint Scully and himself; then washed her hands of any guilt and left him to destroy or salvage his own life.

Summary

Melissa is a gentle soul, actively helping others lead a more present life while attempting to guide them with her own morals and beliefs. If they ignore her or try to silence her voice, she will retreat into the darkness and let them die by their own self-inflicted injuries.

Thank you for reading~

Enjoy!

Disclaimers: This is a self-assessed analysis. This information is not based on the abominable MBTI system (which has been butchered from its original Jungian typology since ~WWII); instead, it’s a combination between the works of Jung’s type psychology, Dr. Linda Berens’ Communication styles, Dr. Dario Nardi’s EEG brain scan compiled research, and others’ data and practices as compiled and simplified by CSJoseph. This system is based only on the Nature side of Nature/Nurture; and each “type” is not a “box” to fit everyone into– simply a tool to help understand the basics of the human mind that science has only begun to fathom in its limited scope.

[therosebunpost]

Listen, I know I'm mainly a Stranger Things blog but I just had this idea so I figured I'd send it out for my Walter Keys Mckey lovers out there who also enjoy fiber arts-

But okay, so, a lot of Fiber arts are closely linked with early stage programming! for example, Punch Cards which have been used in computers, have also been used in textile machines such as Looms and Flatbed knitting machines! Also, hand knitting and crochet often has complex charts that could be read like a program and also involves a lot of math!

How this relates to Mister Keys, is I wanna pair him with a Reader who just has this way about them when it comes to Fiber arts, similar to Keys with programming. Maybe they knew each other in the same College, but Reader was in a Fashion program instead. Could be a thing where Key's doesn't really get it until Reader sits him down and shows him just how complicated textile arts can be. (Maybe it's just me, but a man who likes to do soft crafts just makes me a happy lady, maybe it's the wishfullness in me) Vice versa with Key's walking Reader through the basics of programming and they realize that Hey, maybe this is something they understand as well.

Que Reader knitting and crocheting techy things for Keys and Keys making programs for Reader that help with their projects. In fact, they end up creating a side business where they make state of the art programs for Fiber arts and even some Fiber art based games that do super well. They fall in love and enjoy their complicated projects together in the evenings. 🥰

[protector-ofthe-wilds]

The afternoon following the events in the Hinterlands was rather quiet. Koda and her new companion had spent the majority of the night talking at the camp about many topics - both serious and casual in nature. The sunrise prompted a nap, and then the two found themselves sat across from each other once more as Koda prepared an apple to snack on.

“May I see your bow?” The request was polite enough, given the otherwise haughty nature the Lady Sathrah seemed to possess. More Highborne than arachnid, Koda had thought to herself - though perhaps she shouldn’t have been surprised. To be so thoroughly loved, by both Elune and her priestesses, would be enough to inflate anyone’s ego, she mused. To be loved so dearly that in order to save her soul and relieve her of the misery of madness, they would give the somber order to murder her. It was almost…

“Kodian?” The named Kaldorei sat up a little straighter, her thoughts sundered as the many eyes of Sathrah peered at her quizzically. “Your bow?” 

Koda exhaled a quiet grunt, before reaching for her prized weapon. It was placed with care in the space between them and then the archer was still. The Lady took a moment to give the bow proper appreciation, admiring the handiwork of its crafting and the endless amount of care that had gone into maintaining it…and then promptly used her pincers to bite through the string, shearing it into two uneven pieces. 

“Hey!” Koda barked out in shock, snatching it back into her hand. The apple was abandoned as she flipped the weapon over, gingerly lifting one half of the string with her fingers. Then, her ire landed onto the tarantula with a deep frown. “What’s wrong with you, huh? Do you know how much work it takes for me to get this to where I want it?” 

“Hush, sister, and have patience,” the Lady chided, which only served to vex Koda further. “I do not act without purpose.” 

“I’m not your sister,” Koda growled back, but then found herself obliging Sathrah’s order as the spider began to…spin a web? Well, not quite - she wasn’t hanging from the tree and weaving some intricate pattern to entrap flies. No, it was more like a seamstress pulling thread from a spinning wheel, winding the silvery fibers together between the hooks of her legs. 

“Your bow again, if you would be so kind.” 

Koda was understandably hesitant, but at least this time she had an idea of what the Lady was planning to do. And so, the archer's deft fingers worked the tattered string away, and the bow was now held out at an angle towards the weaver. A certain sort of awe overtook Koda, then, as she watched Sathrah slice free what was now a solid, tensile string and attach it to the bow's hooks with ease. 

“You may need to adjust the tension,” she instructed, “but you should find it an otherwise perfect fit.” 

Koda didn’t waste time on being annoyed by the Lady’s prideful self-admiration, instead taking the moment to thoroughly inspect the new bow string. Hardly half a second’s worth of adjustment, and the string settled into place perfectly. 

“I’ve never had it balance so easily,” Koda said, tone baffled. This, of course, did no favors for the Lady’s already swelling ego, which was clear enough in the tone of her next words. 

“Yes, well, the Priestesses did not have me weave for them simply due to my good looks.” This earned her something of an exasperated stare from Koda, and so the Lady quietly exhaled an amused sigh and continued. “The healing capabilities borne of my webs are well known, but lesser spoken of is the latent power woven within each thread. My mother has deemed you worthy of such gifts…” One of her frontmost legs pointed towards Koda for emphasis. “...and so I shall give of them freely.” After a second of pause, the Lady continued, her leg once more resting upon the loamy soil. 

“I will need to travel to Duskwood soon in order to provide you with my healing waters. Weaving a web here to gather dew would be pointless; the air is too thick with the humans’ detritus. In the Twilight Grove, however - under the Light of Elune and within proximity to the Dream - I will be able to work with the proper efficiency.” The corruption of the human’s city was one thing the two of them could agree on, and Koda nodded along in understanding. The Lady watched her for a moment, before offering one final thought: “The battle ahead will test you and your flame-bathed Druid, both body and soul. You will want these waters, sister.” 

“Then I will accept them,” was Koda’s solemn response - a reply which seemed to please the Lady well enough, by the way she adjusted her stance to stand a bit taller.

“Wonderful. You may run along for now, Kodian, and begin your preparations for the journey to come. Perhaps give your bow’s upgrade a try at the training grounds, yes?” The arachnid’s dismissal of Koda returned some of the girl’s annoyance - but not quite all of it - and with a grunt, the Kaldorei stood to depart, slinging her bow into its place across her back.

“Try not to get your webs all over everything while I’m gone,” Koda instructed as she retrieved her apple, if only to punctuate the quip with a sharp bite into the crisp skin of the fruit. The Lady allowed her this, only chuckling lowly as she watched the girl wander off towards the city with a silent, solitary thought:

What a fascinating little adventure this would surely turn out to be.

[thegeekyseamstress]

Heya! I'm Geeky Seamstress - cosplayer, occasional commissioner, graduate theatre student, and part-time costume shop technician. I love making things and talking shop, especially if it's magical girls or Fire Emblem. My specialty is needlework and fiber arts, but I dabble in a bit of everything craft related and share my costume breakdowns on my website.

Human Luna - Based on @hannahalexanderartwork, photo by YinYuePhoto (IG)

Sailor Venus - Patterns/tuts from @cosmiccoterie, photo by @stargirlphoto

Utena - photo by AlphonseMedia (IG)

Dancer Byleth - pattern from @indigojinjo, resin pieces from @dangerous-ladies, STL files from @illustris-cosplay, photo by Kev_Maker (IG)

[somediyprojects]

The Lady of Shalott stitched by Tarah Wheeler. Pattern ($6.99) designed by Teresa Wentzler.

I started this project when I was 19. I remember sitting on the lawn at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, and starting that first stitch up in the top left corner in DMC 420. The Lady of Shalott is a Teresa Wentzler pattern that came out in the late 1990s, and I’ve now finally finished it at the age of 41. The original myth is about Elaine, the Lady of Shalott, a fairy who fell in love with Lancelot and died while floating on a boat down the river to Camelot. It’s a frequently explored myth in Romantic literature, and this version is from Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poem.

This piece captures the moment just before she looks out to Camelot and her mirror cracks, signalling the end of her life in captivity and her doomed pursuit of Lancelot.

But in her web she still delights To weave the mirror’s magic sights, For often thro’ the silent nights A funeral, with plumes and lights       And music, came from Camelot: Or when the moon was overhead Came two young lovers lately wed; ‘I am half sick of shadows,’ said       The Lady of Shalott.

This was quite a quarantine finish!

I think I was so motivated to finish this during the pandemic because I thought it was beyond ironic that I was embroidering a woman who was embroidering because she wasn’t allowed to leave her home or dream of going other places.

Additional details under the cut.

After completing much of the cross stitching, I had to go through it with a forensic magnifier to check each 10×10 section for missing stitches. I basically lost a weekend doing this! Not that I noticed; we’re still in a pandemic.

I put a lot of myself into this project. Given the Victorian origins of Tennyson and the Romantic poets who loved the Chrêtien de Troyes version of the Arthurian romances, I thought it might be nice to literally put myself into this project. So, Elaine’s hair is mixed with a tiny lock of mine, like a Victorian funeral wreath.

There’s often a really big difference between doing cross stitching, and doing the finishing work of backstitching. The tininess of the stitches in this piece means the contrast isn’t as great as in some others, but it’s still pretty spectacular to see it outlined in high relief.

After 22 years, I was a little afraid that it might just fall apart in the washing solution, but it worked just fine. Probably because it’s all natural fiber. I used The Laundress natural fiber shampoo.

This is Monaco fabric, and I spent several days googling techniques to remove graphite when I realized a simple wash wouldn’t do it. I tried several techniques like erasing it with a craft cushion full of rubber shavings, a pencil eraser, and so forth. I found that trying to erase the graphite gently simply pilled the fabric without actually removing much of the graphite. There are several solutions out there, and they seem to be replicated from site to site, possibly without anyone actually testing them. I’m here to say: the Windex + toothbrush solution is what worked without harming any of the fabric or thread. I was concerned about applying the blue chemical to my fabric, but the soft toothbrush plus 50/50 Windex/water solution worked better than anything without pilling the fabric. Remember: don’t iron your project dry until you’re happy with the level of stain and grid mark removal, or you’ll seal those stains in with heat and steam!

I pressed it before adding the Mill Hill beads, since it’s hard to iron over those glass metallic bits.

Washing done–time for stretching: I pressed it gently dry with an iron on low heat over towels like in the video above. When about halfway dry, I started stretching it gently to get it even and shaped correctly, then ironed it fully dry.

Time to decide on framing choices. At first it seemed that something this intricate and painstaking deserved extremely elaborate gold leaf framing of some kind.

It was fun to select matting that had a linen effect, to correlate with this being stitchwork done on a piece of fabric. But that frame wood was wrong. Instead of going overly elaborate with the wood, I explored a more rustic, plain, distressed wood frame.

This didn’t steal focus from the embroidery and also serves to possibly better reflect the kind of framing that might be done long ago when tapestries hung in castles and manor houses…

I like to have the frame shop cut a piece of foam core with a square cut out of it so that I can use dressmaker’s straight pins to pin over the square, then press it down into the larger piece of foamcore.

We’re going to hang it here in the entryway of our home. I picked an accent wall color that would act as the next outward framing of the piece, and this is me painting it.

When my husband got a beat up brass lamp on eBay and restored it, and used it to light the piece and the wall, it became spectacular.

Thank you so much to my lovely spouse Deviant Ollam for the work grinding, polishing, restoring, and adding a dimmer function to this old brass lamp to light this piece perfectly!

If you’re interested in the original pattern, it’s by Teresa Wentzler.

[yourlocaldisneyvillain]

So many smileys for your mommy, if you keep smiling like that you'll make me want to pinch those adorable smiling cheeks. It was an absolute pleasure to cheer you up, babygirl, I hope the day went a little bit better after that.

Not sure whether the age gap makes that much of a difference, but mommy would be glad to teach you all that she knows...that's what mommies are for, right?

Well, yes, I love to have my hair pulled, although only by very few selected people. I'm sure I could find the way to teach you how to enjoy that, as well, since you'd be such a good girl as to make an exception for mommy and allow her to play with your curls...

I am very good with my hands, sweetheart. Don't doubt that for a second. I keep them trained mainly with fiber crafts, but sometimes I stray into other hobbies, as the fancy strikes.

I do know you write fanfictions, and you are really good at that, too. your naughty naughty Lucifer fanfiction holds such a special place in my heart...it never fails to make mommy's pulse get faster, no matter how many times she re-reads it.

Have lots of fun at today's pride parade...mommy's sad she cannot be there with you, to show all those ladies who didn't kiss you what they're missing out on.

Hugs and kisses by mommy dearest ~🐞

*gasps* you'll make me blush! nobody has pinched my cheeks in years! (and if someone tried i'd probably bite their hand -- however, i will think about making an exception for mommy :PPPP)

you can teach me anything you like :))))) such as enjoying hair pulling

fiber craft trained hands? so you're good at intricate handiwork? :) interesting.

aww, thank you for complimenting my fic :) just the reaction an author loves to hear. what can i say, naughty..... fics.... are my speciality :) you liked any particular scene? :)))

i had fun. too bad mommy wasn't there. i looked really hot :)

<3

[ladyleonster]

Just inside the door to Ethyln's dorm lies a medium-sized wicker basket, unassuming but for the bright red bow on its handle. Inside it are a variety of items. At the very top: a card of simple white, lying atop a picture frame of poplar wood very carefully packaged. Underneath that is a sketchbook and charcoal paints, all cradled by several balls of wool all in different shades of blue. 

The card reads:

Lady Ethyln,

Good tidings to you this winter. I am often told this festive season is best spent with family, and am inclined to agree; however, the sad truth is as one ages time for all of one's kin becomes harder and harder to parcel out.

I believe that makes it all the more important to do so for those near, and to remember the ones far.

(My apologies if the activities herein seem particularly hands on. I myself am nowhere near as talented at the creative arts as my siblings but they tell me it is not the overall aesthetic that matters but the intent.)

This sketchbook is a way for you to remember those both close and near as your heart truly sees them. There are plenty of pages for practice and once you are done perhaps you should like to put the picture of your dear ones in a frame? The picture frame herein is enchanted so that the image inside shall stay pristine for some time as I hope your cherished memories shall as well.

As for the wool… have you perhaps heard of the art of naalbinding? It is one of the oldest fabric creation techniques here in Fódlan, well known to both Adrestia and Fearghus - it is also sometimes called “single needle knitting”.

If you look at the bottom of the pile I have provided an example of what an hour or so of naalbinding might provide for you along with your own naal, or needle to use. It is a rather simple task wherein one holds the naal with the right hand and threads one end of yarn through it (removed from the ball, about the length of ones arm. My apologies if my own measurements do not match with your own). 

The other end of yarn is tied with a simple knot upon your left thumb and by pulling the naal through this knot one is able to create multiple links resulting in a strong fabric that can be molded to ones wants.

The season may call for gloves or a hat, perhaps? But a simple bracelet would be just as lovely I am sure. As matriarch to your clan my message for you is this: no child could ever turn their nose up at a gift from their mother, on the contrary I assure you whatever you make will be an item to be cherished.

Ethlyn never cared much for domestic pursuits growing up. Her tutors desperately tried getting her to care about feminine arts like drawing and painting, playing music, or various fiber crafts but she was far too stubborn to even consider trying to find joy in them. Putting a needle and thread in her hands was just another way to keep her inside and away from a sword like her brother.

But as she grew up, she began to appreciate them more. With a needle and thread, she could mend the tears in her stockings before she got scolded. Putting her focus into baking bread allowed her mind to calm down when she was agitated. And more importantly, she could use her skills to care for her father and brother.

She is surprised to find drawing and fiber crafting supplies in her mystery gift. Perhaps, once upon a time, she might have scoffed and crinkled her nose at the idea but the note included gives her much to think about.

Her own mother had not lived long enough for her to remember much.  Ethlyn did inherit her mother’s old jewelry but that was surely lost during the fall of Leonster and isn’t something she particularly wants to think about right now.  But she doesn’t recall anything her mother ever made for her.  Is that what she should be doing for Leif?  

She picks up a ball of yarn and threads the needle.  Her son is rather practical and utilitarian with his own choices in gifts and it is quite cold this time of year.  Even if she’s never been great at keeping her stitches even, a hat would still warm his ears and keep him from catching a cold.  Maybe if it doesn’t turn out too terribly, she will confess that it’s her handiwork and he can think of her when he wears it.

Of course, she has to actually make it first.

And figure out who it was that gave this to her to beg for help.  

[sweetteafrances]

I don't know how this blog got targeted by fake porn accounts but I've had 5 new "followers" since yesterday and it's a gross feel. Now I've got to comb through all my followers to weed out those accounts. Or hey, maybe naked ladies do just really love fiber crafts... 🤔

[chemichalxconcentrate]

So fun fact: I live incredibly close to the oldest dedicated yarn shop in the United states, heindselmans knit and gift. Let me tell you when I say the ladies there have constant classes, obscure knowledge and seemingly infinite patience for every odd question. They have knitting, weaving, crochet, spinning, even tatting. They sell fiber, yarn and 100 year old spinning wheels. I make it a point to go in at least once a month just to see what's going on. I love them with my whole heart.

If no one else has got your little crafting souls back, elders in the craft do. Treasure them.

knitting tutorial made by a twenty-something knitting influencer: 18 min long, 12 of those minutes being the intro and a sponsor plug, they show the first few steps of the tutorial at the slowest speed known to man, they show the most important steps at a neck-break speed, they stop every five seconds to talk about what they just did, 40,000 comments filled with questions ranging from insightful to “how do i knit”, filmed with a camera that costs more than a car, the tutorial is incorrect.

knitting tutorial made by a seventy-something grandmother: two min long, filmed 17 years ago, shows you what you want with the skilled patient hands of a beloved deity, made with the world’s shittiest camera, the best video on the fucking internet, four comments and 30 views, you lose the video and never find it again.

[kcsshop]

The Ultimate Guide to Pashmina Shawls: Discover the Elegance of KCS Shawls

Introduction

Welcome to KCS, The Home of Stylish shawls Welcome to the world of stylish and stunning shawls with our one stop store and Find us on KCS offers a wide range in beautiful Pashmina Shawls, sleek designs of Kalmkari shawls and traditional handwoven heirloom Kanis. Shawls are an iconic fashion piece; they offer warmth and elegance. Get ready to dive into the world of shawls and learn why KCS is where you should go next for your perfect one.

Understanding Pashmina Shawls

What is a Pashmina Shawl?

A Pashmina Shawl - Not Just Piece Of Fabric, Tradition And Elegance Pashmina Shawls - Known for its softness, insulation and feel in the world of cashmere wool and also feel luxurious.

History and Origin of Pashmina

The word pashmina is derived from the Persian language and it refers to a type of fine wool that comes from specific breeds of mountain goats in geographic Kashmir but also stretching into Nepal. A time-honored handcraft by experienced artisans, it is still a practice today where every shawl produced pretends to be unique.

How Pashmina is Made 

The process of making a Pashmina Shawls ..collecting the fine undercoat of Cashmere goats,spinning the fibers into yarn, and then weaving it into shawls.

Types of Shawls at KCS

Pashmina Shawl

Our Pashmina Shawls are the ultimate of luxury. Each shawl is crafted with precision, and beautiful and ensures you get the finest quality.

Kalmkari Shawl

The Art of Kalmkari

Kalamkari is a traditional Indian but its origin from Andhra Pardesh art form Adh that involves hand-painting or block-printing on fabric. Our Kalamkari Shawls are vibrant and feature difficult to solve designs that tell a story.

Kani Weave Shawl

Kani weave shawl is a type of Kashmiri Shawls and its originated in Kashmir. It is oldest handcraft thing in India. Its believed to be Kani weaves shawls crafted since 3000 BC.

Shawls for Women

Style Tips for Women

Ladies, a shawl make any outfit seem better for an elegant touch, use a Pashmina Shawls with a basic dress, or throw a kalamkari shawls over your shoulders to add some colors. 

How to Choose the Perfect Shawl

When choosing a shawl, consider the material, design of the shawl, and occasion. Pashmina is perfect for formal events and occasions, while Kalamkari is great for casual outings. 

Shawls for Men

Why Men Should Consider Shawls

Shawls aren’t only for women. Men’s shawls can add an enhanced touch to any outfit, providing both style and warmth

Styling Shawls for Men

Pair a simple shawl with a suit for a formal look, or drape it over a casual jacket for a chic, laid-back style.

Care Tips for Men’s Shawls

Just like women’s shawls, men’s shawls should be handled with care. Dry clean them occasionally and store them properly to maintain their quality.

KCS: A Name You Can Trust

Quality Assurance at KCS

At KCS, quality is our top priority. Each shawl undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure it meets our high standards.

Customer Testimonials

Our customers love us! Here’s what they have to say: “I purchased a Pashmina Shawl from KCS, and it’s the softest, most beautiful shawl I’ve ever owned.” – Jane D.

How to Style Your Shawl

Casual Styling

For a casual look, drape your shawl loosely around your neck. This effortless style is perfect for everyday wear.

Formal Styling

For a formal occasion, try folding the shawl lengthwise and draping it over your shoulders. This adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit.

Seasonal Styling Tips

In winter, opt for thicker shawls like Pashmina to keep warm. In summer, lighter shawls like Kalmkari are perfect for a breezy, stylish look.

The Perfect Gift: Shawls from KCS

Why Shawls Make Great Gifts

Shawls are versatile and timeless, making them an ideal gift for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, a shawl from KCS is sure to impress.

Choosing the Right Shawl as a Gift

When selecting a shawl as a gift, consider the recipient’s style and preferences. A classic Pashmina is always a safe bet, while a colorful Kalmkari can add a fun twist.

Shawl Maintenance and Care

Cleaning and Storing Your Shawl

To clean your shawl, gently hand wash it with mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric. When storing, keep it in a breathable cotton bag to prevent damage.

Handling Stains and Damages

For stains, dab the area with a damp cloth. If your shawl gets damaged, take it to a professional for repair to ensure it’s properly restored.

The Cultural Significance of Shawls

Shawls in Different Cultures

Shawls hold significant cultural value in many societies. In India, they are often worn during festivals and ceremonies, symbolizing grace and respect.

Shawls in Festivals and Ceremonies

During festivals, shawls are commonly gifted as a sign of goodwill. They are also worn during weddings and religious ceremonies, adding a touch of tradition to these special events.

Shopping at KCS

Online Shopping Experience

Shopping online at KCS is easy and convenient. Our website offers detailed descriptions and high-quality images to help you make the best choice.

In-Store Experience

Prefer to shop in person? Visit our store to feel the texture and see the intricate designs up close. Our friendly staff is always ready to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to Identify Authentic Pashmina?

Authentic Pashmina is soft, lightweight, and has a natural sheen. Look for labels and certificates of authenticity when purchasing.

What Makes KCS Shawls Unique?

KCS Shawls stand out due to their high quality, intricate designs, and the traditional craftsmanship that goes into each piece.

Can Shawls Be Worn in All Seasons?

Yes, shawls can be worn year-round. Choose lighter materials for summer and warmer options like Pashmina for winter.

How to Maintain the Softness of Pashmina?

To maintain the softness of Pashmina, avoid harsh detergents and excessive washing. Store it properly to keep it in pristine condition.