Thursday, January 2, 2014

Weaving in Colonial Williamsburg...Our Old Country Store is Open!


I have a confession. . . .I'm sure many of you have already guessed. . . .We've been on vacation for two weeks. . . .which is why no one has heard from me and emails haven't been answered. . . .It's also the reason Our Old Country Store has been closed for so long!
 
 
We had worked so hard during 2013, we decided to treat ourselves with a trip back to Virginia for Christmas. . . .
And, what a trip it was!
We started with a week long stay at Colonial Williamsburg. . . .and my very first stop was the Weaving Shop. . . .This was a new addition since our days of working at CW. . . .I could not wait to get a glimpse of those big looms. . . .
 
 
I know so little about weaving on a large loom and was very fascinated with it. . . .They had two pieces in progress. . . .one a patterned coverlet. . . .the other was a plain weave wool and linen. . . .The young lady was spinning wool that day but graciously took the time to explain the weaving process on these large looms. . . .It was fascinating. . . .but I figure I'll stick with the Rag Rug Looms. . . .I certainly gained an appreciation for how simple and quick we're able to weave a rug!
 
Since we live on a cotton farm, I also found it so interesting that they wove very little cotton fabric in the 18th century until after the Revolutionary War. . . .Cotton fabric was imported and was of a finer grade than any that the Colonial Women could weave. . . .It was only after the war they began to experiment with cotton that was locally grown.
 
 
I'm so glad Colonial Williamsburg has added weaving to their demonstrations of 18th century crafts. . . .If you are ever in the area and enjoy weaving, be sure and stop in for a visit. . . .The interpreters are  knowledgeable and they are very gracious to answer even the very basic questions. . . .It was a wonderful experience. . . .
 
So, now, we're back to work. . . .Our Old Country Store is open again for Rag Rug Loom orders. . . .I have a few new items to sell, too. . . .from Virginia. . . .They'll be coming up soon. . . .as I work my way through catch-up. . . .and emails. . . .2014 is here and time for new things, new ideas, new crafts. . . .Be sure to watch for them!
 
Hope all of you are safe and warm (in this chilling winter weather) and enjoying the New Year!
We enjoyed our trip. . . .but it's good to be back. . . .