I’m moving really slowly on my linen project. This wee bit is from some linen “top” that came from Canada and was spun on my Tibetan supported spindle (one of my favorite spindles). I quickly saw how important it is to spin wet (really just damp). And, it was equally clear why early spinners ran the fiber through their mouth to get not only the moisture, but the enzymes that also serve to bleach the fibers.
This type of spinning clearly isn’t very healthy. There are references to “spinners’ mouth” and “spinners’ lips” that could either be infections or a constant irritation that caused the lips to swell and remain swollen.
OK, I’ve gone down the history rabbit hole again, but I just find the whole thing fascinating, and remain fixated on the fact that our ancestors went to such great lengths to clothe their families, make millions of yards for wrapping mummies, and spinning and weaving for weeks to make sails for ships.
“They Spin Well” by Leonardo Alenza y Nieto, dated to the early 19th century
Now for something new (well, actually very old)
My latest obsession is this small fragment from the late 17th century. It is part of the bog find from Gunnister, Scotland, found with so-called “Gunnister Man.” Wikipedia describes it as “open work,” and it has had little else in the way of description.
There are patches on the coat and socks, and this scrap may well have been for the same purpose. I’m pretty sure this is crafted using twisted stitches, and will try to see if I can make a sample that will resemble the original. I’ll have a chance to see the original later this month, and a look at the back should reveal if it is openwork or not.
The small purse found with Gunnister Man appears to be the oldest example of stranded knitting in Scotland (there are older examples in Egypt), and it may be that this is one of the oldest examples of decorative twisted stitches — a precursor to cables. Interestingly, the original analysis of this fragment was that the stitches were made by increases and decreases. I don’t think that’s possible, but another reason to look at the back.
Another question is whether or not this was knit in the round. It is quite possible to knit this design flat, but so far, the older archeological examples found all have been knit in the round – socks, gloves, hats. Yipes, another rabbit hole.
Sweater finished!
The yoke-neck sweater if finished, and is currently soaking to be blocked. Glad it’s over. Although the colorwork part was quite fun, that many rounds of stockinette on a size 6 needle was wearing.
Teaching Notes:
Tomorrow I head to northern Connecticut (just across the border) to do the second session of the class knitting Heather’s Scarf. This is an adaptation of another designer’s pattern that works well with the angora/wool mix from Heather’s critters. It’s a beginners’ class with teaching techniques/review of long-tail cast on, Elizabeth Zimmerman’s sewn bind-off, and picking up stitches. It is totally fun to work with knitters this enthusiastic.
Meanwhile…
I’m getting ready to attend the Perth Scottish yarn festival in two weeks. It will be such fun to see friends again, and I’m hopeful that masking and care will keep me safe from Covid this time. So stay calm and knit/crochet/spin/weave/embroider/and anything else comforting. Until next time…
Sara