A Weavin' We Go

New Year Weaving

2012-01-14T23:37:00.001-06:00

I've got one full tote box full of new rugs now. I'm happy about that, it means I have a start on the new market inventory.
I have a bunch of pockets off of jeans and cords. So, soon I will work on decorating pocket purses.

Friday I managed to get an apron made. That has been on the schedule since last fall. Finally done and tagged for sale.

I hope to get some pictures of my work posted soon. I just haven't found the time to do that yet. I may need some assistance getting that accomplished.

I found a new use to get some more of the jean seams recycled. I'm keeping it a secret until I can get more than one finished. i want to put in some pictures of them as well, once I get a couple of sets made.

So, I will be working on weaving rugs, making pocket purses, aprons, and my new idea.

I haven't got my three rugs a day made yet this month, but that is soon to happen. We have snow and winter weather predicted for next week, so I will hit the loom and sewing machine hard and fast.

Keep on Weavin' !

HANDMADE

2012-01-04T19:10:00.000-06:00

ALL of my rugs are handmade by myself. All cloth is hand cut with either a scissors or rotary rag cutter.
Then sewn on a sewing machine into a ribbon of cloth.
After that, I weave on a four harness Newcomb Loom.

You can see pictures of this loom in earlier posts.

I have three looms that I use, all three with different colores of warp on them, one with blue and smoke blue, second with natural warp, which is a little off the pure white, and third, beige and brown warp. That is what I have on the looms now. I mostly have blue and natural on the one loom, I like that combination and have it on the loom more frequently than the two blues.

Each rug is unique , I want to say that each is different in its own way. Although I try to make at least two from the same bunch of fabric. This only happens if I have enough material to make two, since sometimes there is only enough to make one rug.

Keep on weavin'

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-02T11:39:00.001-06:00

I've begun to cut and sew again after the holiday. I first pulled out the flannel, now I have some browns, and blues to weave. The rugs should be nice and soft, being out of flannel. I finished the brown corduroy rug I had started before christmas. It hasnt been measured so I'm not sure of the length.It is probably about 50 inches long to just estimate.Last night I pulled out the black and tans, I'm getting it ready to sew, the process is going to be long since there are several different shades of black. The tan is also several different shades so I will also have to sort after cutting.I have a lot of work ahead of me, I plan to still have over 100 rugs ready for the Farmers Market the first week of May 2012.I have about 6 new rugs made to date. They are still on the looms so they are not finished. I will have to cut them off the loom and hem, measure and tag them for market.Having a warm/cold winter. We haven't had a good snow yet, today it is kinda flurrying nothing is sticking, so no sledding for us.The sun has actually come out. Well, I should get to weaving, my goal is to weave at least 2 rugs a day till the first week of May. I hope it happens..maybe I'll do 3 if I don't have anything else to do.;^). Keep on Weavin'

Orders Completed

2011-12-15T15:03:00.002-06:00

The loom was really humming the past month and half. I had orders for a super long denim also an order for eight rugs of the same fabric and stripe..5 feet each.. wow that seemed to take forever. The customer probably thought I was slacking, but I finally got them done and delivered. My super long denim is still waiting to be delivered. Only 10 more days till Christmas. I need to do some serious house work.. If I move my supplies I wont remember where I hid them ,so, there might still look like some clutter around here.
Tomarrow is the Christmas program for the twins at pre-school I cannot miss that. I'm sure it will be special. Another excuse to be away from the loom and away from house work. I am looking forward to that program. I have only had a small preview of the music. Only watching them for a half day one day a week. Needless to say it has been quite quiet around here.
It is kinda cold here at 32 degrees but still no snow to speak of, only rain, if that almost 4 inches of rain was snow we would probably have near a foot or so of it..
Gotta get back to work, I plan to make a rug or two maybe a day from here until the market begins.
Keep on weavin. Happy Holiday to everyone!

Tuesday Market

2011-08-18T22:19:00.002-05:00

Tuesdays market was good, I spent the morning getting ready for the market. Since I went out of town on Saturday, My sister and mother took control of Saturday. Im happy about that since it is hard to let the market space set empty on a weekend . Everyone seems to look for us on Saturday.

Tuesday had great weather, the past Tuesdays I was unable to go to the market since it was soooo HOT.

I have some weaving to do, although I need to re-warp two looms again. My warp has been on back order and on Wednesday it finally arrived.Maybe next week I will take the time to do that big job. The re-warping.

We had a great time at the Iowa State Fair on Saturday. It is about our only vacation away from home. The weekend was short but we got to see some great things at the fair and spend some time with our dear friends in Des Moines.

Keep on weavin'-- See you at the Freight House Market!!

Market Days

2011-08-17T13:10:00.001-05:00

I went to the Farmers Market on Tuesday. I have been avoiding the market on Tuesdays due to the overwhelming heat we have been experiencing. Tuesday went well,
there were several shoppers new to the market and lots of great products to purchase.
I added 4 new rugs to my inventory, they are all denim and they are almost all alike.
I have been working on some projects that are orders so my inventory has been standing still with not many new additions.
Saturday I will be at the market with all of my inventory, the weather man says it may rain but I will still be there.

August 6

2011-08-05T17:05:00.001-05:00

I finished my two orders for this weekend. I had to re-warp a loom and still need to make some finishing touches.
The weekend is suppose to be hot again. The heat doesnt matter much, the market still goes on as usual, cause it is GOOD!
I need to keep weaving at all times since the inventory is getting low. I have a few more short rugs than long. Seems long has been popular this summer, the shorter rugs are not much than 36 inches long.
In September, I have two shows including the Farmers Market, guess I can be busy doing the weaving, since I need to make as many new rugs as possible.
I had a "helper" with a few of my last rugs, Nolan 4 years old, decided he could help, so he helped with the rag cutter,by cutting a bunch of denim with me.
Then he wanted to weave so he sat on my lap and helped weave a 60 inch rug. He had a lot of patience. What a great helper!

Oh,My, It is HOT!!

2011-07-18T15:19:00.002-05:00

Saturdays market was busy and a good day all around. I seem to be able to tolerate that heat outside.The heat isn't bothering me at all, which is good cause I have to be out there in it at the market.
I've been doing some weaving for the church and seems that now I am almost out of warp, so that means I will have to take a day or two and re-warp, all three of my looms. I have an order in for my favorite colors of warp, but of course some is on back order. We must all be patient. That might give me a chance to get some cloth cut and sewn for the next batch of rugs I will need to weave.
There isn't much to do but keep up with the orders now. I will get ahead of the game in a month or two.
I am pretty sure I will need to weave some extra long rugs now, since my last long one was purchased over the weekend. Now everything is 50inches long or less.
It is hard to know what people will need, but I am going to be doing my best to make some longer lengths before the end of the market in October.
Guess I need to get back to weaving today. The time of day passes by fast. Before I know it, it will be 10 p.m.
Keep on weavin'
Stay cool!

July 2 market day

2011-07-06T15:56:00.002-05:00

Market day on July 2nd was super fun. We had tons of people visit our display at the Farmers Market. It was especially busy due to the other festivities that were going on and were going to be taking place during the late afternoon.
I had a lot of sales and even took some orders for some new rugs. That means I will be weaving into the night.
On Tuesday the 5th, in the morning I sewed all of my brown corduroy for an order. by noon I was finished sewing and got my van ready to take off for the Tuesday market.
I arrived at 2:10 and set up. after that I started cutting apart my long ribbons of corduroy and trimming the "tails" off of the angle sewings. I actually got all of my shuttles full before the end of the market at 6 p.m. Even with the sales and speaking with customers who came to visit with me.
I have to do some weaving, so I'd better get busy.
Keep on Weavin"

June Market Days

2011-06-28T21:46:00.002-05:00

June Market Days have been quite interesting. We have had mostly sunny and warm days on Saturday. Tuesday market day has been off and on rain. This is the Midwest. so , wait 5 minutes and the weather will change..
Market sales have been good through the month. I am glad for that,recently I have sold rugs to people from California, Colorado, New York, and just this past Saturday to a family from New Zealand. Thank you to all visitors to our state of Iowa and City of Davenport Iowa. It was great to meet you!
My recent weavings have been denim with red stripes and also some tan corduroys. Also some burgundy corduroy rugs. They all look so pretty and they are of course durable.
I also have an order for special colors,and a rug with fringe. I only make rugs with fringe for special orders, usually my rugs are bound ends. This one will be extra fun to make since it will be tan, burnt orange, black, and aqua.I plan to make it on brown and beige warp. I believe it will be beautiful when completed. Such great colors!
Iam looking forward to the month of July. We will have some great events going on along our river front during the month.. July 4th Red White and Boom, Baseball with the River Bandits, RAGBRI(The ride across Iowa on bicycle) The Bix road race, and that is just to name a few.
The Freight House Farmers Market along the Great Mississippi River will be humming during the month..Everyone try to visit the market, you just might find that special item you have been missing.
Look for me at the market, I will have new rugs on my display each week, since I am weaving most days of the week.
It will be great to see you!

June Market Days

2011-06-28T21:45:00.001-05:00

May 21 Farmers Market Day

2011-05-22T16:32:00.002-05:00

Thank You, to all Freight House Farmers Market shoppers that came out to see us on Saturday May 21. The weather ended up being great after a threat of rain.
Fortunately all we had were a few stray sprinkles that soon left us, and we had a warm sunny day. I will say that it was hot and dry. unusual for the midwest, most time it is humid along with the hot. It did end up beign quit pleasant.

Sales were great and we enjoyed visiting with shoppers as they looked for that ideal item, most wanted food and bedding plants, but there are always a group who seek the heritage product. That being the Loom Woven Rugs on my display tables. I am very thankful for you.
I have a full inventory of newly woven rugs that seem to please. I try my best to have the right size for you and as close as that measurment as possible. I also have the variety of color that might suit your interior design.

If you havent had a chance to visit the market, make a point of getting to the Freight House Farmers Market on Tuesday from 3-6p.m. or Saturday 8a.m.-1p.m.
It is a lot of fun and who knows you might just find the right item for you and your family.
Come early, sales begin at 8 a.m. but sometimes the best sell out first. My loomed rugs are waitiing to be placed in your home, business, or as a special gift for someone you know, or maybe for yourself just because.

My Loom

2011-02-14T10:38:00.003-06:00

I have some pictures of my loom now on my post.
Enjoy, they are of my Newcomb Loom made in Davenport, Iowa.
The looms are no longer made. So, I guess that makes it an antique, I believe it was made long before the 1960's.
I enjoy making rugs, and, placemats on the loom.

2011-02-14T09:24:00.005-06:00

All warped up

2011-01-27T21:42:00.002-06:00

I am happy to say that I just finished putting warp on my loom. All knots tied and it is ready to go. I put the blue and natural warp on and now I am going to start weaving blue denim. I only had a few denim rugs left from the end of the Farmers Mkt season, so I need to make some in all lengths.
I have to make a short one first of course since I need to weave up to the knots.
I hope to start with a long one. Someone mentioned that they wanted a rug 120 inches long so that can be the first one i make after the knots are through the reed.
Look out!, I have a bunch of denim ready to put on the shuttles, so denim is going to be in the works for the next month. :^).
I have about four rugs now on each of two looms, the natural warp and the brown and beige warped looms that is.
I am well on my way to having the maximum number of rugs ready for our farmers market booth come May 7,2011.

The Farmers Mkt.

2011-01-19T22:07:00.002-06:00

Soon we will be going to the Farmers Market. It begins in May 2011 on the Davenport Iowa river front.
We have come to the point of NO Tuesday markets anymore, or until some new day or time is worked out for the entire market.
We will miss Tuesdays, although sales were lacking, we really enjoyed being out in the warm spring, summer, and fall air.
We will continue our SATURDAY market, We will be there Sat. form 8-1. May through October.
Hope to see you all come down and see us at the Freight House Farmers Market.
I will be weaving like a mad weaver until then, Ive got to get the inventory up. I believe I will have some woven rugs that will appeal to everyone.
See you soon!

The Farmers Mkt.

2011-01-19T22:06:00.001-06:00

Day After Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T11:22:00.002-06:00

Let the knot tying begin, I have had to re-warp two of my three looms. I have one already warped but need to tie the knots and pull the warp through to the front of the loom.. My next project is to get the "blue and natural" warp on the other loom. It shouldnt take long if I stick to it.

I really need to get those rugs started. I have a bunch of denim cut and sewn. All I need to do now is WEAVE after I get the cloth strips on the shuttle.

The snow is on the ground and it is cold, so I don't need to go anywhere except to the basement to weave. That first weekend of May will be here before I know it. THE START OF THE FARMERS MARKET!

I only have 436 knots to tie on each loom! KNOT BAD.

One more week before the start of the new year and small children enter the house for babysitting. I'm sure they will be a big help once the weaving starts. They both like to sit on my lap and help pull the beam back to make rugs for the market.

Saturday Market (Last Day of Season)

2010-10-30T20:53:00.004-05:00

The weather turned out pretty nice for the last day of market. October 30, 2010. The air was cool and crisp at 5 am by 6am it was a bit windy and of course felt cold down by the river.
Vendors were in dressed in halloween costumes and had candy treats for all . By 10 am the sun was out and it felt pretty warm out.
If the weather holds out I will attend a few market Saturdays with my Rugs before the holidays. I would like anyone who needs gifts for birthdays or holidays or just because they want a new rug, to come and see my inventory, I have at least six new rugs , and a bunch that are just waiting for the right home to go to. I have plenty of denim in various sizes and some corduroys, also some double knit in stripes. If you are interested in placemats ,I also have some in sets of 4,6 or 8. Come and check out the entire market, there will always be vendors inside and some outside for your shopping needs.
keep on weavin'

Market Ends Soon

2010-10-28T19:24:00.003-05:00

The seasonal market ends on Oct. 30, 2010. That means that I will not be outdoors this winter at the Freight House Farmers Market.
I need to get busy and weave, weave, weave. I have had a good spring and summer at the market. My storage boxes are mostly emptied.
I will be weaving all winter as time allows..I sometimes get away from weaving and do only the preparing of fabrics for rugs, but I will be doing a lot of weaving to get ready for the spring and summer market season to come.
I will be working on the denims and the flannels for rugs. I am still waiting for a back order of warp so that does put a dent in the weaving process. I am hoping it comes soon.
I will of course take a weekend of well deserved "vacation" just a weekend getaway. Then get back to the work at hand.
Holidays will fast approach so that slows down the process. It is always an exciting time around the house. That also means dusting and cleaning, cooking and baking.
The weaving must go on!!
Keep on weavin'
Remember to stop in at the Freight House Market on the banks of the Great Mississippi River in Davenport Ia. Happy winter to all!!

WEAVING And MARKET

2010-08-30T08:20:00.002-05:00

I've been weaving some pretty neat rugs and also had a couple of mug rugs finished this week.

I made my mug rugs on the large floor loom so I had 4 shuttles going at once. It was a great relief to get them finished.

My new rugs are looking real pretty. The denim with yellow stripes, Rust and tan corduroy, and a red white and blue made from double knit.

Saturdays market was again a busy day for me. Lots of people looking and getting ready for the holiday season.

The regulars all stopped by to say hello and look at the new rugs, Also so new customers buying for wedding gifts and Christmas gifts. What a great idea !

The weather was perfect on Saturday for the market. Everyone had a good time, and I am sure they all found a great treasure at the market .

Half Way into the market season

2010-08-22T14:36:00.002-05:00

The market season is half over. The summer flew by, it is still summer though. Temps are hot and humid, but before we know it we will be saying it is to cold.

I still have some orders to finish and some new ones to begin.

Our Freight House Farmers Market has been very busy the last three weekends. Lots of out of towners visiting.

I've had my rugs go to Texas, Arizona, Oregon and Scotland this year. That is the ones that I know of for sure. All sold through our Farmers Market stand.

I also have the pocket pouches and jean bags that have been selling well. The children like the pouches and the older girls like the bags for book bags and all around purse bags.

The last month of the market I will start to make some Cotton Candy to sell. My niece has the big machine and she makes it for her punkin patch market. I think that by October everyone will be craving the taste of cotton candy again, the fairs will all be over and a cotton candy will sound delicious.

Its back to weaving for me, I'll be making lots of denim rugs with stripes, the yellow stripe seems to be a favorite with denim, although I will be putting in some white stripes too.

I'm also going to make some burgundy rugs for fall.

Happy weaving to all!.

Bix Saturday

2010-07-26T11:53:00.002-05:00

The rains came and stayed longer than predicted on Saturday. I had only a few rugs out for viewing, at Market just because it was so wet. By about 11 am it quit raining and the sun came out.
Market day was quite interesting. We watched runners and walkers go on past the market to the starting line through the rain , then back again to their cars after the race to get dried out.
I had a couple of orders that were picked up at market and that was about it.
When it was time to leave we all knew exactly what we wanted to do..GO home and dry off from the rains and change into dry clothing.
This week I will be working on orders and getting some short rugs made for sale. It seems that my inventory of any rug form 40 inched to shorter are all sold. That makes me happy and also tells me to GET Busy and weave. This is my last week of not having to watch the grand children, next week school starts for my daughter and her kids will be with me while she works. Where has the summer gone? I am looking forward to the month of August, although it will be busy. We will take our yearly trip to the IOWA STATE FAIR ,it is always such fun.
Looks as though I need to get to weaving. The day is getting away from me..
Off To Happy Weaving .

Market News

2010-06-23T15:08:00.002-05:00

June, It has been a wet one. Tuesday June 22 was the first time in a month we have been able to attend the afternoon market. It rained every Tuesday this month.
Saturday the 19 th was a great day for market. The sun was out and so were the shoppers, what a great day. Sales were UP. There was also a healthy living fair at the same time on the parking lot and everyone was busy.
Hot and Humid was the normal temp. We all survived with plenty of water and a canopy to keep the sun partially off of us.
I have made a bunch of pocket pouches and started a few rugs.
My order for a long stair runner is in the process, I am still cutting fabric for that one.
Last weekend was the day for long rugs. Some days customers want long and other days they want short rugs. It runs in spurts as to what is wanted. I will keep weaving and see what turns out. I hope to please all of the lengths needed.
Happy weaving!!

June Markets

2010-06-04T20:52:00.002-05:00

Here it is June already, one month of markets are under our belts. How fast the month went. We have a van full of rugs to sell at the market and they seem to multiply even though we had two empty tubs at the end of May. That is a good thing. The tubs all got refilled as soon as they were emptied though. I've been weaving denim and corduroy again. The orders are being placed daily as well. I now have an order for a 95 inch stair runner, that is going to take some time to make of course.. I still need to find and cut the fabric so my work is cut out for me! I may have to re warp the loom though before that weaving begins. The weather has been off and on rain, this week. Thank goodness for the warm and sunny days we had in May . June however seems to be predicted as wet, we will take the sunny days when they get here.
School is out for Benjamin so he can be my helper , even though we have to find the time to do the weaving without the help of the twins, at 2 1/2 they are a "bigger help" than needed, but they still have a good time. At least they are interested in the craft, that is a thing I hope remains with all three children . My looms are a treasure to me as well.

New Market Season

2010-05-13T21:01:00.001-05:00

So our market begins.

May 1, 2010 our first day outdoors at the market. My neice Samantha helped her Grandma Betty set up and sell at the first day of Market. It was a huge success! They both did well for the first day.

May 4, 2010, the first weekday market of the season.. we did O.K. for sales. The weather, not so good. Just Good and COLD, that also went for the second market day.........COLD AND WINDY, but the people came out and shopped.

On Tuesday the 11 of May, I went to Market and set up to another cold day , not so windy but also without to many shoppers. Shoppers are going to have to get used to us being outdoors again and come to see us.

this Saturday the 15 of May should be nice and warm with lots of Market vendors and lots of Market shoppers.

Everyone come and see us at the Freight House Farmers Market, Downtown Davenport. You are sure to find a great product there, be it veggies or my Loom woven rugs. I will be looking for you to visit with us at the Market.

My inventory is at its best right now. I have been weaving all winter and there is lots of variety to choose from. Hope to see you there.

Your cast of jeans of denim, corduroy and your favorite old bedspread can become a heirloom showpiece in your own home, I can weave it into a keepsake woven rug for you.

Gettin' closer

2010-04-08T19:37:00.002-05:00

Oh Boy, the Freight House Farmers Market opening day for outdoor market is getting closer. I have been busy weaving of course. Also cutting and sewing fabric for the rugs. I priced and packed the last bunch of rugs today, that I had cut off the loom and hemmed. I started weaving some 'sea foam' colored fabric rugs today. I have enough on shuttles to make two rugs alike, I don't know how long they will be..just long enough though, I'm sure. It won't be long now before May 1 is here. Hope for a bright sunny and warm day, no heavy wind blowing off the mighty Mississippi for our opening day.
Back to weavin' for now.
recycle that castoff wardrobe, you'll see them in a whole new light in a hand woven rug!!

Bright Sunny Day

2010-03-17T18:31:00.002-05:00

Ah , the sun is out today, I didn't get any weaving done today, Yesterday I managed to make 3 new rugs. One, a tan corduroy, and two of red white and blue corduroy. They aren't real long but at least they are matching. I have some of the tan corduroy ready to weave, that one will match the first tan made yesterday.
The count down begins. I have six weeks to go before market begins. (My booth is calling)! I plan to have a bunch of rugs, bags, and pocket pouches ready for sale on May 1.
I also have to warp my loom , the" Number 0ne" with the blue and natural warp soon.. I have natural on the "Osborne" loom and I have burgundy and tan on the "Moline" loom , that warp should get me through the next couple of months, before I have to re-warp.
I "found" A TREASURE at the second hand store .. It is a nice hobnail bedspread, I am anxious to get that cut and sewn so I can weave it. Or maybe I wont cut it up, maybe I will put it away for a while.

End of Feb.

2010-02-22T13:08:00.002-06:00

The last week of Feb . The month went fast , still one week left in the month though. I made some Pink rugs and some Sea Foam green placemats.. All are still on the loom though. I'm going to make another to turn under, so I can keep weaving through to the end of the warp, without wasting to much.
The snow this weekend really piled up. we got another 6 inched and it is wet and heavy.. hopefully our street will be cleared today, (a dead end so it is highly unlikely today will be the day).
I'm on my way to the basement to weave again.. didnt get anything done over the weekend. So off I go to weave until 4p.m.

New Rugs

2010-02-07T14:55:00.002-06:00

I've got four new denim rugs off the loom this weekend. YEAH! three are solid denim and one has red stripes with denim. They are so pretty! Actually two of them are the same, I had the fabric on shuttles and decided it was way to much to make one rug from, so, I made two. I made them to hem the ends so there is NO fringe. That fringe just seems to tangle, get caught in the vacuum and I've heard that the pets like to eat or play with it. ( I don't have a pet in the house so I wouldn't know).
This week I plan to do some more weaving. I have white terry cloth, and also some corduroy on shuttles. The corduroy is a mix of tan and burgundy. They should both turn out to be nice soft rugs. They probably wont be very long but they will accent any room.
Keep on weaving!

February Weaving

2010-02-04T22:08:00.002-06:00

The weaving has been slow this month. Only into the first week of the new month but it seems I just can get into the basement to weave.
I finished a denim rug that I had started on Monday, today is Thursday, so that goes to show how fast I worked this week.
I also started a matching rug today, at least I got it started. I will be about the same length as the first.
I put white terry on the shuttles to be ready to weave tomorrow, we are predicted to get some snow so that will be a good excuse to stay home and weave. The little kids will be here and they are always eager to "help" , it also means another slow weaving day. They have to learn someway, what the weaving game is all about.
A new month can make a difference, hope we get some sunshine in the near future, seems everyday is so gloomy , dreary and cold lately. We are sure to get some warm weather soon and lots of warm sunshine too.
Ive got a bunch of pocket purses lined up to sew together, also have some large pant purses to make handles for and sew the Velcro onto and then they will be ready for the market. It wont be long before May is here, then the weekends will be filled with a market day.
Happy weaving!

cutting and sewing

2010-01-24T21:40:00.002-06:00

I have cut and sewn a bunch of denim to make denim rugs with. It seems I have gotten behind on the weaving since all I did on the weekend is cut and sew strips of denim. With all the prep work done now I will start to weave so the loom can be full of rugs. All of my shuttles are full now so the work will be faster. It shouldnt take to long to get a few rugs made this week.
Weaving on!

It's still winter

2010-01-21T22:46:00.002-06:00

I sure will be glad when the warm weather gets here. Snow and ice no more. I've finished 3 rugs , at least gotten them woven.. I will now need to finish them by cutting them off the loom and hemming them. That wont take long. I am always excited to see the finished product. I sometimes forget what is wrapped up on the roll of the loom.

I've got denim, corduroy, and some mixed fabric rugs made, they will be displayed for sale at the Freight House Farmers Market in May. That is when the outdoor market begins, in Davenport Iowa. I can hardly wait.

My little helpers are also excited to begin going to market and helping me. Nolan and Lana (my twin grandbabies, now 2 1/2 are true market babies). Nearly every day they ask about market. . They help everyday for the market sale.

Days when we have to go across the river to get Benjamin from school we look across at the market lot and building to make sure it is still there. As a two yr. old they think everyday should be market day.

Back to work for me . I've cut and sewn denim for about two weeks, my supply of denim rugs will soon be back to standard. I like to have at least 100 rugs before the first of May. Lets hope that can be accomplished. Who knows , with this weather I am sure to have more than that the first day.

WEAVE ON!

January 2010 weaving

2010-01-10T13:44:00.001-06:00

I've just finished a beautiful soft rug from a large piece of fabric that I purchased a few weeks ago. It is almost tan but could be considered more on the burgundy side. I wove it on beige and burgundy warp.

This week I plan to re-warp my "Osborne" loom, I call it that because I purchased it from a family that lives in Osborne Il. Anyway it is going to be re-warped with natural warp. I have lots of fabric cut and sewn that will look good on a solid warp.

My goal is to weave like a mad woman before the beginning of the market. Which begins the first week of May 2010. I cannot wait for that hot weather to arrive.

I also have to be busy with the granchildren during the weekdays because school has started and they are "in charge of me" during the time mom is at work. (she works for the public schools).

Monday the fun begins!

At least I have a start on the weaving , there are at least 3 rugs on my "Moline" loom, (again, purchased from a couple in Moline, Il.) also 5 or so denim rugs on my first loom. I just want to get a couple more made before I cut them off of the loom. I usually make one to "turn Under" so that I don't waste the warp by having to re-tie the warp onto the apron.

It is a long prosess no matter what the goal. But it is something that I wouldnt stop doing for anything.

Winter Weaving

2009-12-28T11:23:00.002-06:00

I've been doing some new weaving since Christmas is over, I have a nice bunch of dark brown corduroy cut and ready to weave. I 've started with one, it turned out to be about 55 inches long and that is , one third of the supply.
Everyone got an nice rug for Christmas in my family. I made sure that they got the "color" that they wanted, or at least something that they tend to sway toward.
My youngest brother is a big John Deere collector so his was green and yellow, just like the tractors.
My other brother is a denim fan, his was mixed denim on navy and creme warp.
My sister, a Harley rider, scored a black and orange.
My daughter, recieved a creme colored rug to match the decor in her living room at home.
It was fun to make them and be able to have everyone get something useful and handmade.
I will keep on weaving all winter to get my inventory back up to the range needed for the Farmers Market, that begins in May 2010.
Happy New Year to all !
A Weavin' We Go!

Update

2009-11-24T08:19:00.001-06:00

I'm working on the last of my orders taken in October and will soon finish with them, I hope to have them delivered before the 1st of December.

I am always looking for fabrics to start working into rugs for the next season's market. Im planning to make some white rugs from white robes and white bedspreads they are always a soft pretty rug.

With Thanksgiving fast approaching I will have to take time to dust and clean.

There is always plenty of dust involved with the weaving and preparation for weaving since I start from the very begining of cutting, sewing, and weaving. It's the full cycle of " re-cycling".

Closing of the seasonal Market:

2009-10-26T23:17:00.002-05:00

This season of Market made for a great summer. The weather for the most part cooperated. We only missed two market days, and will miss the last Tuesday 10/27/09. We intend to help with the harvest. There are acres and acres of soybeans and field corn to combine before the snow.
My last day of seasonal Market this year will be October 31, 2009. I intend to do one market day before the holidays since we will have the opportunity to do so. We are greatful for the invitation to do a day of Market on a Saturday, before the Holiday season. (Date to be determined). I will be at the Freight House Market on the Davenport River Front on Saturday October 31, 2009 from 8:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
I still have a generous supply of inventory to choose from and as usual can accomodate you by taking special orders. My schedule will be open for any orders you have for the next season as well. Come and take a look at my rugs, place mats, anywhere mats, pantbags and pocket pouches, all from the recyceled and repurposed fabrics. I will have my eyes on the trends and color selections for the new season.
I am anxious to fashion a floor rug for your home , vacation home, or as a gift to a person of your aquiantance. Remember, they make great gifts and all are unique!

Only 3 more Saturdays at the Freight House outdoor Farmers Market

2009-10-15T15:10:00.001-05:00

" Only three more Saturdays left in the seasonal market at the Freight House outdoor market." If you have any orders that need to be picked up this will be very convienent before the end of the season. Just show up before 12:30 p.m. Saturdays.
I am excited to have my order of warp in, now I can get busy for the next market season..
On Saturday the 10 th of October we had SNOW! It was a cold and blustery day. Most shoppers were out early and they were done shopping before the snow set in for the day. At least it didnt stick around for long, it all melted before the end of the afternoon. It was just a big surprise to have snow so early.
With the cold weather setting in I will surely get a bunch of weaving done . Believe me it is a long slow process, but I am sure to get a new inventory established for the following season.
Have a Happy Holloween!
Hope to see everyone at the MARKET!

Saturday Market 9/19/09

2009-09-21T12:43:00.003-05:00

Market weather was spectacular. Not a cloud in the sky however there were kites! Davenport Parks and Recreation and the YMCA had a "Family Fun and kite flying" event. Some of the kites were huge and very unique. It was fun to see!

It was a good day at the market. The corn is slowing coming to an end and the pumpkins are almost at full yeild.

The Rug business is great. Betty and I have a few orders to fill before the end of the market season and then it will be a winter to work on making new and even more throw rugs for the enjoyment of the public.

My mother Betty's birthday was the 17 th so we celebrated with a piece of birthday cake that my husband Mike brought to the market for us to enjoy. Amy, my daughter, came from Des Moines to visit and so she came to the market to visit.

I'm going to get busy and cut pockets off of jeans again. My supply has dwindled to almost nothing. Dora, dogs, and cats seem to be the popular characters this month for pocket pouches.

Tuesday Market Helpers

2009-09-20T10:23:00.002-05:00

Grandson, Nolan helps with the set-up.

Grandaughter, Lana helps with the set-up at Market.

New pictures of Market items

2009-09-20T10:14:00.004-05:00

woven shoulder bag

decorated pocket pouches

woven shoulder bag with fringe

2009-09-17T23:49:00.002-05:00

End of summer update...

2009-09-16T10:33:00.003-05:00

Thank goodness that the weather is finally co-operating with us , after all the rain , the market is going great. I have a bunch of orders for new rugs, the only thing is that I've been waiting for an order of warp that I really need to complete about 5 rugs for one customer.

Last week was the REC annual meeting and craft show. It went very well, the weather was great and everyone had an good time. The food that they provided was very good, we are grateful for that, since we all get into our booths by 7:30 am and are not done until around 3pm.

Burgundy seems to be the IN color these days will fall approaching. People are buying burgundy left and right and all that I have left is a small rug for in front of your recliner or for a small kitchen to possibly put in front of your sink.

Another popular item is my pocket purses/pouches. I have been selling out of my pocket purses/pouches weekly and make about 20 for each market. Tuesdays are usually a slow day but when Saturday comes around the display disappears in a hurry. That's a good thing! I will be busy cutting pockets off of the jeans for some time to build up my inventory.

Our dairy farmer neighbor at the market has graciously donated a bunch of his denim jeans to me for use. The denim will be recycled in a hurry since I need pockets and also need to replenish my stock of denim rugs. I am excited to get them cut and sewn so that I can begin weaving denim rugs. The newest addition to my inventory are woven bags. The denim purse/bag is lined and has a shoulder handle, and velcro closure. Its nice to see that they are a popular item for those who make big vegetable purchases at the farmers markets. They are very versatile and can be used for many purposes!

Thats the latest here- hope to see you this Saturday at the market.

A weavin' we go!

Carol

Fourth of July

2009-06-29T21:40:00.002-05:00

The market is ON for the Fourth of July, it should be a great day. The weather will be cooler and sun shining. There will be a big celebration on the river front including concerts, ballgames, and red,white,and boom will be going on. It will be a super weekend of fun for all. Come on over to the Davenport, Iowa river front to visit, shop, and have an all around good time! Also, the new market contest is going on- log onto www.localharvest.org to vote for our market. Hope to see you there!

2009-06-02T22:13:00.003-05:00

"My Grandma had rugs like these!" I've heard those words many times as people look through my inventory of rugs. They are a useful accent that will enhance early American to contemporary settings.

The uses are endless: car mats, doggy dish mats, kitty mats, kindergarden nap mats, centerpiece mats, under the baby's car seat use your imagination, and have fun! All weavings are made on Newcomb floor looms with double warp, and bound ends. Fringed ends made upon special order.

If you are looking for a unique house warming, wedding , Mother's day, Father's day, or any other special occasion gift consider my one-of-a- kind rugs, table runners, and place mats.

Go Green! Rag rugs are a great way to Go Green! I recycle clean used fabrics and new washed fabrics to make beautiful, washable, rugs, place mats, and tablerunners for your home.

Some of my work...

2009-05-17T10:17:00.007-05:00

At the market with some of my rugs.

Rag rugs. Made from denim.

My grandson enjoying the soft piece of material that will be cut into strips, put on a shuttle, and woven into a soft cream colored rug.

My mother Betty-who taught me how to weave- demonstrating on her Newcomb Loom at the Mississippi Valley Fair.

2009-05-16T20:28:00.003-05:00

A rug woven from flannel shirts:

2009-05-16T18:42:00.006-05:00

Welcome to A Weavin' We Go! I am excited to be a blogger! I weave rugs made from used denim, and other fabrics. I weave on a Newcomb Loom. I have been weaving handmade rugs for many years and I have a booth at the Downtown Davenport Riverfront Farmer's Market located at the Freight House parking lot in Davenport, Iowa. I have started this blog to advertise my beautiful work and invite you to come out to the markets to purchase my rugs! My schedule at the market is as follows: Tuesdays 3p-6p and Saturdays 8a-1p from the months of May thru October. If you cannot make it to a market time/day I do take orders via email at loomincab@mchsi.com. Also, if you would like specific lengths and/or specific colors for your rugs I am willing to take special orders. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. My rugs make great gifts for all occasions as well as a great addition to your home. I also weave other household accessories such as table runners and table place mats.

The picture above is my daughter's Boxer enjoying one of my "shaggy rug" creations.