Visigoths in the Attic?

Spun Horned Dorset Singles

Originally uploaded by The Speckled Ram Fibers

I’d like to blame my absence on a Visigoth siege on upon my keep. If only some swarthy barbarians could be blamed! But it would be a big lie. I think the summer doldrums struck… along with really annoying computer issues.

I’m getting back on the fiber wagon again slowly. I even ordered some lovely spinning fibers for myself about a week ago. Rustic fibers to try out. At present I am taking a break from my Etsy shop. I have some home projects that need attending before another crisp winter sets in. I move slowly in the heat and humidity, don’t ya know??!!

Be well. Stay cool.

Still Here!

Swaledale Wool Handspun

I have not been doing much on spinning or dyeing front. No updates to report at this time. I have too many other activities on my plate at present. And these lovely June days of sunshine and temperate weather are such a nice distraction.

I have been knitting dishcloths instead. Cotton just feels so good this time of year. So far I have knit around 10 dishcloths. Sadly, I see no end on sight! Love knitting the Ballband dishcloths.

Be well!

Updating Etsy Store with New Fibers

I have added some new fibers for sale to my Speckledram Etsy store. Get them while they’re hot. I have more to list than what I have posted just now…. so keep checking in with me.

Hope everyone is doing well this month. I am looking forward to days with longer daylight hours. Be well.

New Toys On Board!

Two Lucets: Big and Small

I decided to branch out from spinning into playing with other fiber tools… like the lucet. I ordered a little one and a big one from Sistermaide on Etsy. She also has a website showcasing a handmade spinning wheel. It is just a lovely wheel.

My next purchase will be naalbinding needles. Will this fiber madness ever end?

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day to one and all. I have added more fiber items to my Etsy store for those folks who might be interested. I even listed for sale some periwinkle Cotswold locks. They’re very soft and yummy. ( I tend to keep Cotswold locks for myself.)

I’ve decided this year’s theme will be to explore wool fibers as best I can. I intend to try new wool offerings whenever possible, from assorted wool top or roving to scouring untried fleece. Break out of the mold is the goal. So if you come across anything interesting or a good source, please do share. I feel the need to shake things up!

Leicester Locks For Sale

Leicester Locks – For Sale

I added several new listings to my store since my last posting . There are now more offerings of Romney wool top along with Perendale locks and Mohair fluff. I also listed some more Falkland wool roving. If you don’t see anything you like, please check back as I have still more goodies to list for sale.

Enjoy your weekend. All the best, Pepper

Wool For Sale!

Wool For Needle Felting

FYI to those who might be interested: more lots of wool shall be posted soon on my Etsy shop in the next day or so. I have wool for needle felting, hand dyed Perendale locks and some Romney roving to post.

I have some lovely red fibers for Valentines Day. Meow.
Cheers for now!

Shop Update: Hand Dyed Romney Wool!

I have continued to add new offerings to my Etsy shop.  I’ve more to dye, photograph and list still. Check back with me from time to time.  It all takes time!

I watched the swearing-in ceremony today – it was such a high point!   Hope everyone is staying warm and cozy. Cheers!

Colour Blending Fibers: Hackle & Diz

Colour Blending Fibers: Hackled & Diz

 Now that it is a new year, hello 2009, one of my goals is to break out of set “fiber arts behaviors”.  I started doing this by spinning yarn using my various drop spindles.  Spinning with a drop spindle is so rewarding.  So digging it. Why did I just let them sit there for so long? Anyhoo,  I recommend everyone interested in the fiber arts giving spindling a whirl.

I’ve also been playing with my blending hackle and diz.. For so long I just let them sit in a corner. Why? Well,   not any more!  I’ve decided that 2009 is going to be all about exploration and learning — breaking out of old habits.  I’ve decided to challenge myself  — try new spinning technique, explore natural dyeing more and try weaving with an inkle loom.  So HELLO 2009!  Hello to new horizons! Goodbye 2008!

Books: Traditional Crafts of Saudi Arabia

Inside Shot: Beduin weaving
I discovered two wonderful books at a local bookstore this past Saturday.  I have always been fascinated by nomadic people and their handicrafts, especially the Bedu and Sami.  Upon eyeing a copy of Traditional Crafts of Saudi Arabia by a John Topham, well…  I just about fell over.  It covers such wonderful topics as weaving, jewelry, weapons and household crafts.  The photos and text on Bedu weaving are just pure joy for me.  Thank you Mr. John Topham!

The other book is titled The World of Carpets and was written by Maurizio Cohen.  It is a wonderful book which explores oriental carpets.  I like best his section which examines the techniques of creating such works of woven art.  He book is very well laid out with much of it presented as an illustrated atlas of carpets. Again, I thank the author for sharing his knowledge and passion.