Sara's Texture Crafts... HQ Log

The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter has recently reopened its doors after a major refurbishment. Not having visited since 1995 when Darrin and I met at art college, we decided it was about time we explored the collections again.

Free entry and lots of activities for families meant lots of people, but fortunately the refurbishment is such that it didn’t feel tight for space. All the rooms had such a lovely light and airy feel and the exhibits were well thought through and some interactive.


Of course I found myself being drawn more to the textile pieces that were woven, beaded or embroidered more than most… But there’s so much to see I think I could be inspired by something different each time I go.

This is a Back-strap loom weaving that is part complete. It was made in Guatemala in the 1980s.


Isn’t it wonderfully vibrant?! It has made me think I should revisit for some more direct inspiration for my next weave… And weaving against a dark colour could be something to consider.


This is a Chaka Spinning Wheel (the original design of which was commissioned by Gandhi). I still haven’t quite mastered mine… Maybe I should have another go?


I also came across this loom reed from Japan (I think). You might not pick it up from the photo, but all along the face of the reed there are beautiful carved designs… I’d loved to have seen the original loom.

I got the feeling every now and again… While I was taking the occasional photo… That I was being watched…


Who is that man following me?!

To be honest I’m surprised I didn’t loose Darrin to some of the children’s activities… I usually do!

What have you been up to this weekend?

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

Do pop along if you can… They are a very talented group!

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

Wow, what a lovely day! The sun came out and that brought lots of people to the show.

I finished my demo, a spindle spun yarn in Blackberry Bush. I enjoyed spinning this and talking to new spinners as I did so.

I just want to thank everyone who came today. It was lovely to meet you.

I can see I have lots of stock to prep over the next few weeks for the website ;)

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

We got set up ok this morning after the perfect bacon bap for breakfast!

I ended up knitting over spindle spinning as I was a bit too hot (nice, bright weather). It took me all day to knit my sample as it was super busy, but it did get done.

We have had a really wonderful day… New show, new friends, new customers… And of course some very welcome familiar faces too. Big, big thank you to everyone who made the journey and came to say ‘Hello’. I hope to see you tomorrow.

At the moment my feet are up waiting for the lamb roast to cook! Ahhhhhhh and relax!!

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

Here it is, nearly finished.

As usual I seem to have packed far more than I have space for!

Hope to see you tomorrow…
Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

Are going in the bags tonight!

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com

Bye for now,
Sara x
Www.sarastexturecrafts.com