Totally-Hooked Rug Hooking Escapades

Remembering Kilims

2012-02-12T19:06:00.000-05:00

If you have been following me you know that I LOVE Kilims....
This is a Kilim that I designed in a class with Anne Boissinot...awhile ago...the hooking has been finished for awhile and I have been struggling with how to finish it. I have whipped both sides (long) ( only one is whipped in this photo). I want to fringe the rug warp that remains on each end. BUT before I do that I needed (wanted) to put some kind of finishing stitch to hold the loops in place and prevent fraying....with the help of THE big giant head....I put two rows of single crochet in corresponding colored wool (to the whipping) and I am happy with that. I will now remove the weft threads and knot the warp threads to make a fringe....stay tuned for more progress...

Mother's Matrix Mat...and More

2012-02-05T20:03:00.000-05:00

Zipper

Design by Jen Manuell

Hooked by Lois Latham (my Mom)

I was visiting my Mom over the holidays and snapped up this photo of her Zipper rug from Jen Manuell's Amazing Matrix Booklet. I think it is really beautiful - simple, colorful and fun.

I have been at it again - knitting that is.....I have finished another September Circle. This time in blues and mauves...I could be addicted....I love all that lacy-ness going on....

I have NOT given up on hooking. As I said last week, I have been trying to hook a little each day. Sometimes easier said than done, however.... my studio looks like an explosion happened...

One of my large work tables is completely covered with my various piles textures...you see I NEED to see my palette in front of me to see what colors I will put next to each other.....you understand ...right???

I gave my niece Camille this funky cowl for her birthday yesterday, called Wasabi Cowl. Although, I made hers from multi-colored thick and thin Australian wool slightly less bulky. She was filled with gleeful delight. She is only 8 years old and was eager to show it off to her friends who, according to her, would be very jealous ! How much fun is that?

I am starting to think I may have an addiction....I was shopping at Mouliné today....my neighborhood yarn shop and I could NOT leave without several balls of this YAK yarn ....50% yak and 50 % merino wool.....so so soft. I wonder what will become of it...?

Well, I 'm off to the dye pots to rescue my wool. I have been dying up a small storm today. I have several orders to complete to keep my wool consumers warm and wooly and hooking :)

Until next time...happy hooking!

What's on My Frame

2012-01-28T12:44:00.001-05:00

What's on My Frame....and NO I didn't fall off the edge....

I have been working away on a mat called MORE from Jennifer Manuell's Amazing Matrix. It is an adventure in TEXTURES and VALUES. I am trying to hook a little each day as this rug is a good size......Not so easy as I have caught the knitting bug again.

I was totally inspired by Jen Manuell's overdye of her September Circle Cowl, so I knit one for a Christmas gift....in Black Crazy Zauberball - a sock weight yarn...

Well, this really got me started on knitting again....I used to knit alot years ago... and let it go when I started to hook. When shopping for the Zauberball yarn...I found some great yarn at a reduced price at my local knitting supply store Mouliné...

This yarn was being liquidated as it is a discontinued line of ROWAN yarn. It is a 50/50 blend of Silk and Merino wool DK weight....so soft and luxurious to knit with. The available colors were NOT to my liking so, I overdyed them in various rich colors and knit NOT 1 BUT 9 Infinity (one Loop) scarves for holiday gifts. Shown here is the scarf designed by Stephen West - Purl Ridge Scarf - find the pattern free here on Ravelry

As one thing led to another... I continued to knit....another free design called Boneyard Shawl from Stephen West on Ravelry.

Well, I am still knitting and trying to hook a little each day. Most of my textured wool comes from Heavens To Betsy. Check out their Remnant Bags and their line of lovely textures...

I also get some lovely textures from Searsport Rug Hooking. Check out their Wool of The Month for great samples.

Until next time.....happy hooking!

Dyeing Darks

2011-09-05T19:57:00.000-04:00

I have been dyeing lots and lots of darks lately for a geometric I have been hooking away madly on. These above colors Licorice and Republic Red are dyed over textures with formulas from Susan Quicksall's book Dyeing For Color. Check out her website Hollyhilldesigns.
These darks do a wonderful job of showing off the lights and mediums....contrast of value is what it is all about in geometrics. I will post a photo soon of my progress.

'Tis The Season to Be Dyeing...

2011-08-28T20:05:00.000-04:00

Lots of yummy colors.....all over textures. Ready to be hooked. Tried to keep my steamy dye kitchen under wraps today as we had SO much humidity (read RAIN) from the tropical storm already...didn't need more to make the house extra humid. It seemed to work, most of the humidity was contained and sucked outside with my venting system. Here are the fruits of my labor....today. What fun it is to play in the dye pots again. Some of these are dye by eye, but most are reproducible colors....a necessity when customers want the same color...right? These lovelies are headed off in the mail tomorrow...

I hope this post finds everyone safe!

OUCH!!!!

2011-08-16T14:34:00.000-04:00

I am back at work after being off for awhile on vacation AND being back ....feels kind of....

...nice..... but really is very PRICKLY...lol

Cactus from New York Botanical Gardens

Give Away Over at ...THE WOOLY RED RUG

2011-08-07T19:49:00.000-04:00

Help Laurie CELEBRATE over at The Wooly Red Rug ....A Give Away

Congrats Laurie! The NEW website looks great!

Wishing you much success!

Find Laurie's New Website ....here....The Wooly Red Rug Website.

Find Laurie's blog...here....The Wooly Red Rug.

A Portrait Study

2011-08-05T12:27:00.000-04:00

Here is what I have been working on lately. This past spring/summer I participated in an online class with an amazing instructor - Wanda Kerr. For more info about Wanda and her online classes visit her blog at WandaWorks . The learning experience was exciting and wonderful as I acquired many new skills that will translate into my future work.

Each student benefited greatly from tons of individual
attention and assistance to build the skills necessary to hook a portrait independently. The study that we completed incorporated many exercises to build not only our skills, but also our confidence in working with values and shapes to successfully (re)create a portrait in wool.
If you are looking for an enriching learning experience to enhance your hooking and looking skills - then I suggest checking out what Wanda has to offer.

A Folk Crow

2011-07-21T09:50:00.000-04:00

If you have followed my blog you will remember that my Mom and I both like Crows. Well, here is yet another one. Enjoy!

Folk Crow

Hooked by Lois Latham

Design by Judith Dallegret

A Heart For Wanda

2011-07-19T11:18:00.000-04:00

I was wandering on the beach the other day and found this lovely heart shaped flat rock. It reminded me of my friend Wanda Wandaworks .

I can't believe how time flies....

I have been busy working on a project and will show and tell when it is complete. It is really great to finally have time to hook!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T18:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Color Inspiration at The New York Botanical Gardens

2011-05-01T13:28:00.002-04:00

A recent Easter weekend trip to the
New York Botanical Gardens.

A wonderful way to welcome Spring. The riot of color is amazing. From the Spring bulbs to the extraordinary Orchids. A feast for the eyes.

More to come. Stayed tuned! Enjoy!

Dying for Spring...

2011-04-17T20:29:00.000-04:00

OK Mother Nature has been fooling with our weather again. It was WINDY and COLD this weekend with RAIN and SLEET....So, I dabbled in the dye pots....one of my favorite things to do. I had some orders to fill for some students and customers. Here are some of the results....

I dyed this skein of RAGG 2 ply in the microwave. Here it is cooling on the back deck. The yarn is Briggs and Little 2 ply RAGG.

This is what it looks like dried and twisted. It is a nice soft spring green.

I used Wanda's float or wandering method to dye this . It is a lovely parade of browns. The wool is Dorr natural.

Here it is dried and ready for hooking. It is simply delicious. I hope the richness and variation of color and value comes through. Yummy!

This one does not have a before. I got carried away and forgot to take the photos of it in the electric fry pan. I used a spot method to get this wonderful beauty. Inspired by maple syrup and sugaring off. The yarn is Briggs and Little 2 ply Heritage natural.

Another one that escaped the camera. What can I say my hands were busy....LOL. Anyway, I dyed this one in the electric fry pan as well. It is also spotted with several colors to yield this softness. The yarn I started with is Briggs and Little 4 ply washed white.

Spring!?!

2011-04-04T18:55:00.000-04:00

In Montreal we have been seeing some signs of Spring! In the park yesterday I saw crocus on the sunny side of the park.

Also, I heard them long before I was able to see them..Canada Geese...These are one of my definite signs that Spring has really sprung! I will say that and we will have more snow, as we did this morning mixed with rain.

Oh well, you know what they say "April showers bring May flowers." Bring it on!

Obstacles.....

2011-03-27T11:28:00.000-04:00

Bye Bye Winter....

2011-03-20T16:59:00.000-04:00

Welcome back the light.....so long winter blues.... I really think winter does a number on my body, mind and spirit..... Thanks to all of you who have emailed me or phoned me to ask if I was still alive and kicking...I will try to be more present on my blog.

Have a look at some antique rugs from Quebec, Canada. These are from my personal collection. We think these were hooked in the 40's - 50's and 60's. The style is typically Quebec "paysage" or landscape. The first two are hooked with cotton cord or yarn on fine linen, while the third is hooked with mystery fiber on burlap.

Happy First Day Of Spring!

Making/Finding Time to Make Handmade

2011-01-01T11:49:00.000-05:00

In the midst of all of the preparations for the amazing race to "THE DAY" (read christmas)... I found some time to make some homemade things - (I took the Handmade Pledge in 2010 and tried as much as possible to adhere to my pledge. So as I have 5 min. today, I thought I would share three little christmas ornaments I punch hooked with Amy's No. 14 punch hook with you. They were given as gifts to three of my dearest colleagues. Most of the 2 ply wool yarn is Briggs and Little Heritage that was hand dyed by me. Enjoy!

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T17:24:00.000-05:00

Slowly....Some Progress

2010-11-23T19:39:00.000-05:00

I managed to get some leaves and my pumpkins done...slowly....as my back is doing better ....a little punching here... and a little there. I manage a about a 1/2 hour at a time. I add up my 1/2 hours and there I am - some progress.
I am learning much about working with yarn and punch hooking - CONTRAST is extremely important. Notice how my leaves sort of blend altogether - even though I dyed up some very different values, and purposely made one a blue green and one a yellow green. Thankfully the two oranges work - just. The stems of the pumpkin and the crow read almost the same value as well. I will have to wait and see 'til I put in some background to see if I need to take out some and replace.

Slow Progress...

2010-11-14T19:25:00.000-05:00

When you are suffering from a broken back:

It is really really hard to do this:

The good thing is that I am able to move around now. Hoping to make some progress on my Crow rug this week. I'll post when I have something to show.

Crow and Pumpkins - New Project

2010-10-31T18:54:00.000-04:00

I finally started punch hooking on my crow pattern. It has been in my head and now has been drawn and the punch hooking has begun. I am using my Oxford punch # 10 hook www.amyoxford.com and Brigg's and Little www.briggsandlittle.com Super 4 ply White washed wool yarn that I have dyed. Here is what my crow looks like so far.

You are looking at the front side of the rug. Remember we punch hook from the back, so you can't see the rest of the pattern. I will show another photo when I have punched more. Have a look at the colors I have dyed to complete my piece.

Happy Halloween

Color Color Everywhere...

2010-10-24T11:36:00.000-04:00

Two Months.

I never meant to be away for so long.

Life unfortunately sometimes prevents us from doing the things we love to do.....

I have been basking in the luxurious colors this autumn that Montreal has offered up. Each day the change is dramatic. Sometimes the contrasts are really breathtaking. I was lucky to catch these colors yesterday on a walk with my Sophie. The sun was just perfect to capture an incredible light.

I really hope wherever you are you are witness to some of the glorious changes autumn has to offer. Let them inspire you as they have with me.

CROWS ! ! ! !

2010-08-22T09:52:00.001-04:00

My Mom - Lois Latham - is into hooking crows at the moment. Here are two recent rugs that she has completed. I love both of them.

EAT CROW

Hooked by Lois Latham

MY TURN

Hooked by Lois Latham

Be Your Own....

2010-08-14T16:06:00.000-04:00

Fortress of Louisbourg, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

2010-08-03T10:31:00.000-04:00

A visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg — the largest reconstructed 18th-century French fortified town in North America — is a series of experiences that set a mood. Ramparts, streets, households and interpreters help to create the look, texture and mood of another century. Cannons on stone ramparts, a busy waterfront tavern and the crackling of a kitchen fire all tell how people of a different age lived and worked. Here we see an iron Fleur de Lis on top of an 18th century period house at the Reconstructed Fortress of Louisbourg.

A look at the Old Town, the harbour with the Port of Entry to the town - all reconstructed to exact (as much as possible) replication of the original.

Here is a look at the Kings Bastion and the Chapel. Of course, here is where the governor and other important dignitaries were housed.

A picture perfect look at one of Canada's first Lighthouses across the harbour from the Fort.

A lovely example of a Goblin type tapestry hanging in one of the interior rooms in the governor's quarters. The colour was still amazingly vivid.

Green pastures around the town for the animals to feed. This sheep was SO friendly and extremely cute.

Most of the buildings were made of this wonderful stone. Looks just like the beach rocks we saw on Kennington Cove Beach, just outside the town of Louisbourg.

Main à Dieu (Hand Of God) Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

2010-07-27T10:09:00.000-04:00

Main-a-Dieu is a picturesque fishing village situated on the east coast of Cape Breton Island, in Nova Scotia. Translated from the French meaning "Hand of God", there is also a belief that the name may have evolved from the Mi'kmaq (First Nation Peoples) "Mendoo" or "Mundoo" referring to the spirit of evil, possibly referring to the number of shipwrecks in the early years.

Fishermen arrived here shortly after the founding of Louisbourg, and later settlers were of Irish, Scottish and English descent. A Roman Catholic Church was begun in 1817, and took a number of years to complete. Schooling existed as early as 1846. Fishing continues to be the main industry, however this suffered a decline in the early 1980's.

Another beach to explore; and as you can plainly see there is no one to be seen. The coast is rugged and the beach looks as inviting as the many others we have explored. I wonder just how far we can walk on this beach. Sunshine, ocean breezes, and good company is what it is all about these days.

Beach Beach Beach!!!

2010-07-26T20:00:00.000-04:00

As the fog burns off and the morning welcomes the day, the amazing ocean breezes invite you to take another walk on the beach. Let's go!

See, it's really really worth it! A lovely walk along the rugged ocean's edge. The smell of the fresh clean ocean air fills our lungs and gives us a great start to our day. Have a good one!

Cape Breton Beach Adventures Continue....

2010-07-19T20:06:00.000-04:00

Another amazingly wonderful beach with big waves and lots of good sand. This is in another little town close by called Louisbourg, Cape Breton , Nova Scotia.

This is the same beach shot in the opposite direction. It holds fond memories for me as I played here as a small child. We would body surf on the waves in the glacial waters and we would build gigantic sand castles in the 'good' sand.

The coastline here is very rugged and the waves can be quite strong with a rather surprising undertow. Being here is so good!

Good night all. Here is the sky from last night. It was spectacular. A sign of the heat we all felt all day long today. Lazy hazy days of summer. Love it!

Gabarus Visit Continues......

2010-07-18T07:25:00.001-04:00

Another blissful day on the beach. As you can see we were able to walk for ever. So rejuvenating to be here breathing in this clean fresh ocean air!

The sky changes here dramatically. Fog can blow in and out. Sun can appear and disappear; lately though it has been HOT. I love it all!

Waiting for a bite to eat. These seagulls look so beautiful in their natural environment.

Lobster fishers are done for the season. Traps have all been pulled out of the water as of the 15th of July here. Now it is time for CRAB - my personal favorite.

Village Life....It's a Beach!!!!

2010-07-14T10:39:00.000-04:00

One of our favorite beaches to visit when we are here in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. It was deserted the day we were there. The ocean breezes were blowing and the sun was shining. We were in heaven. We walked (Sophie runs - puppy bliss) the beach which seems to go on for miles and miles.

Here is a shot of the same beach in the opposite direction. This is blissfully healing for me as well. It seems as though stress falls off my shoulders as I walk along and take in the extraordinary forces of nature. The therapeutic sound of the waves crashing and the smell of the salt water floating in the air add to the whole experience. I am so grateful to be here!

Another Beautiful Day in The Village of Gabarus

2010-07-13T11:17:00.000-04:00

The sometimes huge sprinkles of color all along the roadsides from the naturalized lupines are quite something to witness; a sea of color. Sadly, however the lupines are almost finished for this year.

The wild roses along the sides of the road here are spectacular. The smell is intoxicating. It seems that these rose bushes are everywhere here in this small village.

Here is a beach at the end of the road in the village. There is a boardwalk or breakwater that prevents (mostly) the high stormy tides from coming into the village. I went for walk here this morning with Sophie. We were alone on the beach as is often the case here and on many of the other beaches in the area.

Beauty.... Even in The Fog

2010-07-12T15:25:00.000-04:00

Gabarus, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Doesn't this look like a painting? We are here visiting my family. It is an exquisite little fishing village on the south east coast of Cape Breton Island, part of Nova Scotia. Indeed, even in the fog this place is enchanted, peaceful and a lovely place to escape from the rat race for awhile.

More Show Rugs...St. Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-06T10:08:00.001-04:00

Garden Trellis

Hooked by Claire Molson

Garden Rug

Designed and Hooked by Kathleen Menzies

Sultry Night

Adaptation of A Painting by Mr. Meloche

Hooked by Maureen Meloche

The Show Must Go On...St. Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-05T15:52:00.000-04:00

Squirrel - Pillow

Designed and Hooked by Mayumi Takahashi

Follow The Guide - Pillow

Hooked by Christiane Lavoie

Geometric Cushion

Designed and Hooked/Prodded by Terry Ballantyne

Hampden - Pillow

Hooked by Rosemary Daisy Sylvestre

Primitive Flowers - Pillow

Punch Hooked by Mary Guay

And Then There Was More....St.Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-04T08:27:00.000-04:00

Red Padula - Chair Pad

Designed and Hooked by Lin Watson

Rose Stool Pad

Designed and Hooked by Lin Watson

Spirals - Chair Pad

Designed and Hooked By Lin Watson

Padula - Chair Pad

Designed and Hooked by Lin Watson

Floral Hand Bag

Hooked by Marie Andrèe Vèzina

Roses Carpet Bag

Hooked by Yanick Duchesne

Show Continues....St.Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-03T15:00:00.001-04:00

Antique Rose - Chair Pad

Adaptation of Design by Karen Kahle

Punch Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Cape Breton Fishing Boat - Brick Cover

Designed and Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Floral Teapot - Chair Pad

Designed and Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Cape Breton Lighthouse - Brick Cover

Designed and Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

OM - Chair Pad

Punch Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Sacha The Cat - Brick Cover

Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

More....St.Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-02T10:08:00.000-04:00

Our vintage sign made by hand to look old.

La Mer à L'Estaque

Adaptation of Painting by Paul Cezanne

Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Fleur

Hooked by Lucie Geneviève Lambert

Main Street

Hooked by Jeanne Osler

Sunshine Makes Me Happy

Hooked by Tony Latham

Razzmatazz
Designed and Hooked by Lin Watson

And The Show Goes On...St.Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-07-01T10:36:00.002-04:00

Primitive Flowers 2

Hooked by Mary Guay

Ma Famille en Kilim

Designed and Hooked by Yanick Duchesne

Fleurs, style Naif

Hooked by Lucie Geneviève Lambert

Kilim: Histoire de Sophie et Yogi

Designed and Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

La Ferme Morgan

Designed and Hooked by Yanick Duchesne

And Here Comes Some More....St. Henri Exhibit 2010

2010-06-29T18:54:00.000-04:00

10, rue Jobin

Adaptation of a Watercolor by Reine Ouellet

Hooked by Hélène Fortier

Escaped Canoe

Designed and Hooked by Brenda Ticehurst

Halloween Night

Designed and Hooked by Nayumi Takahashi

Pot Jaune

Hooked by Hélène Fortier

Lapin Vagabond

Hooked by Hélène Fortier

The Show Continues...St. Henri Exhibition 2010

2010-06-28T19:51:00.000-04:00

Hands Around The Hearth

Designed and Hooked By Carolyn Mungall

Vines and Roses

Hooked by Rosemary Daisy Sylvestre

Three Teddy Bears

Designed and Hooked by Mayumi Takahashi

Jacobean Flower Rug

Designed and Hooked by Carolyn Mungall

Dépanneur

(Corner Store)

Designed and Hooked by Maureen Meloche

St. Henri Rug Show 2010 Continues...

2010-06-27T10:23:00.000-04:00

My Davey

Designed and Hooked by Maureen Rowe

Dreamscape

Designed and Hooked by Terry Ballantyne

Dog Days of Summer

Designed and Hooked by Terry Ballantyne

Sheep

Adaptation and Locker Hooked by Margaret Brown

Four Hearts

Designed and Punch Hooked by Margaret Brown

Finally .... More Rugs From St Henri Rug Show 2010

2010-06-25T09:37:00.000-04:00

Fluted Vase

Hooked by Marie-Andrée Vézina

Marguerite Bourgeois Welcomes

The Kings Daughters

to The Saint Gabriel House in Montreal

Designed and Hooked by Marie-Andrée Vézina

Little Horse

Designed and Hooked by Marie-Andrée Vézina

Inspired by the Grottes de Lascaux

Fiber Art From St. Henri Rug Hookers Exhibition 2010

2010-05-24T10:23:00.000-04:00

The Three Bears

Traditional Design by Bluenose Rugs

Hooked by Sylvie Vézina Godin

Birds and Pomegranates

Adaptation of Design by Edith O'Neill

Hooked by Sylvie Vézina Godin

Calypso

Hooked by Sylvie Vézina Godin

Tapis du coeur sur la main

Adaptation of Traditional Design

Hooked by Sylvie Vézina Godin

La bataille des coqs

Hooked and designed by Sylvie Vézina Godin

And One More Makes Three - Hooked Rug Collection

2010-05-20T19:45:00.000-04:00

This is my treasured collection of hooked rug ART by Françoise Vézina-Gagnon. I am SO excited to have acquired the 3rd piece of textile art by one of my favorite rug hooking artists. I have been lusting after the larger piece entitled " Village de Saint-François, Ile d'Oréans" ever since I first saw it. Now, everyday when I come home and see the "village" I feel the excitement of its' beauty. You can easily see why Françoise's work takes my breath away. Click on the photo for a better look. The smaller piece to the left is entitled "Chapelle de Procession Ste. Famille". The piece above the village is entitled "Vieille maison l' ile d'orleans vers 1930".

Here are three more recent pieces of hooked rug ART by Françoise, exhibited at the recent 2010 Exhibition of the St. Henri Rug Hookers.

La Maison Sous Les Arbres

Hooked and Designed by Françoise Vézina-Gagnon

Inspired by painter Marc-Auèle Fortin

Les Patates, Argentenay, Ile d'Orleans

Hooked and Designed by Françoise Vézina-Gagnon

Harvesting potatoes in Argentenay, Saint François, de l'Ile d'Orleans 1930

Le Roi du Clocher et Les Croix de Chemin

Hooked and Designed by Françoise Vézina-Gagnon

On top of steeples we find roosters all along the road that circles the Island.

The road is 42 miles long.

Freedom

2010-05-19T20:08:00.000-04:00

What to Do With All Those Cut Strips of Wool......

2010-05-01T12:16:00.000-04:00

What to do with all those cut strips of wool...Here is a wonderful idea from my Mom. She did a sort of variation of an inch mat. The count is 6 loops for the outside square, 4 loops for the middle line, and then 2 loops for the inside little square. Then the black or dark grid line surrounds it all. Make it as big or small as you wish. Here is a finished mat. Enjoy!

Here is another version without the grid lines.

These little scrap mats were designed and hooked by Lois Latham.

Kilims: Old Leather Brown

2010-04-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

Here is another really interesting brown. It is called "Old Leather". It is another great color from the dye book Prisms #3: Color in Motion by the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Since this is an Abrash formula, the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the great depth of color and variation in value. It is rich and luxurious. This delicious brown wool is a wonderful color for use in Kilims or maybe your next project.

Kilims: Blue Green

2010-04-22T19:47:00.001-04:00

Here is a lovely grayed down blue green. It is called "Glacier Green". It is another great color from the dye book Prisms #3: Color in Motion by the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Since this is an Abrash formula, the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the great depth of color and variation in value. It is rich and luxurious. Another exquisite color for use in Kilims or your next project.

Kilims: Subdued Blue

2010-04-21T18:59:00.000-04:00

Here is a great blue. It is called Slate Blue. It is a Prochem dye directly out of the jar. I used 1/4 tsp. of Slate Blue over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural wool processed in a Presto Pot (also known as a Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. This produces the wonderful mottling. Citric acid was used as a mordant. Click on the photo to see the loveliness. This is another great color for Kilims or your next new project. Try it, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Kilims: Unusual Red

2010-04-20T19:35:00.000-04:00

Here is a really unusual color. It is called "Hearth Stone". It is yet another color by Susan Quicksall from her dye book Dying for Color. Check out her website here. Can you tell I am a HUGE fan of her colors??? Anyway, this piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. There are some lovely variations in value. This is a really great color for a Kilim or for your next project. Click on the photo to see this wonderfully unusual red.

Kilims: Red Orange

2010-04-19T19:39:00.000-04:00

Here is a wonderfully rich red orange. It is called "Bittersweet". It is yet another color by Susan Quicksall from her dye book Dying for Color. Check out her website here. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Look at those amazing variations in value. This is a really great color for a Kilim or your next project. Click on the photo to see this spectacular red orange.

Kilims: Earthy Orange

2010-04-18T12:13:00.001-04:00

Here is a wonderful earthy orange color. It is called "Sweet Potato Pie". It is yet another color by Susan Quicksall from her dye book Dying for Color. Check out her website here. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Check out the interesting variation in value. This is a really great color for a Kilim or your next project. I have dyed this over many different colors and textures and it is very nice. Click on the photo to see the interesting tones in this lovely earthy orange.

Kilims: Welcome to the Dark

2010-04-17T14:38:00.000-04:00

Here is a delicious dark greenish brown. It is called "Compost". It is yet another color by Susan Quicksall from her dye book Dying for Color. Check out her website here.This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the interesting tones in this dark brown. Check out the lovely variation in value. This is a really great dark color for a Kilim or other project.

Exhibition of Hooked Rug Art - St. Henri Rug Hookers - Montreal

2010-04-06T17:33:00.001-04:00

Check out the poster for this year's Exhibition of Hooked Rug Art by the St. Henri Rug Hookers. The Exhibition runs from April 30 to May 8, 2010. We would love for you to come and see what we have on display this year.
Click on the poster to get a better view!

You are ALL welcome.

Kilims: Twilight Blue

2010-04-05T17:41:00.000-04:00

Here we go again with the blues...This one is called Twilight. It is another great color from the dye book Prisms #3: Color in Motion by the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Since this is an Abrash formula, the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the great depth of color and variation in value. It is dark and mysterious, no charming vampires, however. Yet another amazing blue for use in Kilims or any other project.

Happy Holidays

2010-04-03T15:08:00.000-04:00

Want a chocolate?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Kilims: Blue

2010-03-29T19:03:00.000-04:00

Here is another lovely blue. It is called Mandarin Blue Dark. It is yet another Oriental Background color formula from Prisms # 1 (66 Spots and 35 Oriental Backgrounds), a dye book from the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed over 1/2 yard of Dorr wool in a Presto Pot (also known as a Kitchen Kettle) with little to NO stirring, hence the mottling. This is an Abrash formula, so the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the richness of color. It is a really nice blue. This color may be used in Kilims or for your next project. Try it, you might just like it!

Kilims: Blue Light

2010-03-27T17:31:00.000-04:00

Here is a wonderful light blue. It is called Mandarin Blue Light. It is an Oriental Background color formula from Prisms # 1 (66 Spots and 35 Oriental Backgrounds), a dye book from the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed over 1/2 yard of Dorr wool in a Presto Pot (also known as a Kitchen Kettle) with little to NO stirring, hence the mottling. This is an Abrash formula, so the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the lovely soft color. It is a really pretty blue. Another exquisite color for use in Kilims or your next project. You are going to love this one!

Kilims: Green? Blue?

2010-03-23T19:20:00.001-04:00

Here is a really interesting color. It is called Herb Green. It is a Prochem dye directly out of the jar. I used 1/4 tsp. of Herb Green over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural wool processed in a Presto Pot (also known as a Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. This produces the wonderful mottling. Citric acid was used as a mordant. Click on the photo to see the loveliness. This is another great color for Kilims or your next new project. Try it, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Kilims: Soft Tawny Brown

2010-03-22T19:17:00.000-04:00

Here is a soft light tawny brown. It is called Bees Wax. It is yet another color by Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the interesting tones in this soft brown. Check out the lovely variation in value. This is a lovely warm color for a Kilim or other project.

Kilims: Brassy Gold

2010-03-21T15:15:00.000-04:00

Here is a wonderful gold color. It is called Old Brass. It is another great color from the dye book Prisms #3: Color in Motion by the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Since this is an Abrash formula, the dyes were dissolved in 2 CBW (cups of boiling water), adding the mordant in the 2 cup solution. The first cup of dye solution was used to dye the wool - NO stirring, and then after the dye was taken up, the second cup of dye solution was poured over the wool as the wool was pulled up in peaks. First one side of the wool, flip it over then do the same to the other side. Click on the photo to see the great depth of color and variation in value. It is rich and luxurious. Another exquisite color for use in Kilims or any other project.

Tiffany Exhibit At Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

2010-03-20T15:41:00.000-04:00

We finally made time today to get to see the exhibit on Tiffany glass at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Click here Tiffany Exhibit to see the museum website and some photos and video from the exhibit.

The colors are to 'dye' for - really. The vibrant color is spectacular. I was amazed by the texture in the stained glass - totally unexpected. The Dragonfly lamp that you see in the poster is exquisite and the Cobweb lamp is mind blowing. The exhibit runs through to May 2nd, 2010 - not to be missed. Enjoy!

Happy Spring Everyone!

Kilims: Beautiful Brown

2010-03-19T19:11:00.000-04:00

Here is a beautiful brown. It is called Potato Skin. It is yet another formula from Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot (also called Kitchen Kettle) with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the interesting tones in this brown. Check out the lovely variation in value. This is a lovely warm color for a Kilim or other project.

Kilims: Orangey Brown!

2010-03-18T20:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another lovely warm color. It is called Rustic Roost. It is yet another formula from Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the warmth and wonder in this orangey brown. Check out the lovely variation in value. Another really great color for a Kilim or other project. Enjoy!

Kilims: Orange? Brown?

2010-03-17T19:34:00.000-04:00

Here is an interesting color. It is called Cider. A sort of brownish orange. It is a formula from Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the incredible richness of wonder in this orange. This is a really great color for a Kilim or other project.

Kilims: Golden Green?

2010-03-16T20:06:00.000-04:00

Here is a great color. This is Golden Pear. It is a Prochem dye directly out of the jar. I used 1/4 tsp. of Golden Pear over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural wool processed in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. This produces the wonderful mottling. Click on the photo to see the loviness. This is another great color for Kilims. Try it you will be surprised!

Kilims: Back to Browns Again

2010-03-15T19:12:00.000-04:00

Here is a lovely soft brown. It is called Windmill. It is a formula of Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see this surprising color. A good brown for Kilims and more!

Kilims: A Nice Soft Red

2010-03-14T12:25:00.000-04:00

Here is yet another Red. Can you tell that I like Red? This one is called Shaker Red. It is another formula from Sharon Townsend's dye book "SPNEA'S Historic Colors of America" using Prochem dyes. Click on the photo to see the lovely softness and subtle value gradation. This color looks like a well worn and loved T-shirt. This piece of wool was processed in a Presto pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to No stirring. Another great color wool for Kilims.

Kilims: Reds Are Here Again

2010-03-13T16:55:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it - yet another Red? Well, as you know traditional Oriental colors are red, blue and yellow - the three primary colors. This Red is called Stagecoach. It is a wonderful rich red from Sharon Townsend's dye book "SPNEA'S Historic Colors of America" using Prochem dyes. This piece of wool is 1/2 yard of Dorr natural processed in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. My mordant is always Citric Acid. Click on the photo to see the loveliness and merriment in value and depth. Another great Red for Kilims. Try it, you'll like it!

Kilims: Delicious Red

2010-03-12T21:15:00.000-05:00

Here we go again with another Red. This one is Paprika. It is a Prochem dye directly out of the jar. It is really a delicious color. This piece is 1/2 yard of Dorr natural with 1/2 tsp. of Paprika. It was processed in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring resulting in a lovely mottled color. It is a great Red for Kilims or any other project.

Kilims: More Red

2010-03-11T18:58:00.000-05:00

Check out this Red. It is called Holly Hill Red. It is a formula by Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying for Color. This piece was dyed using Prochem dyes over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural in a Presto Pot with only enough water to cover the wool with little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the incredible richness of wonder in this red. This is a really pretty red for a Kilim.

Kilims: Some More Red

2010-03-10T19:31:00.001-05:00

Here is a really gorgeous color. It is called Apple. It is a formula by Wiarton Wanda of Wandaworks. It is another of her wandering formula. I just love this one SO much. Click on the photo to see all of the merriment and deliciousness. If you need to have the formula check out Wanda's blog here: Wandaworks. It is dyed with Majic Carpet Dyes. Wanda and I checked and I believe that we found it in her archives/older posts in 28 March, 2009. I doubled Wanda's original formula over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural. You will love it. Remember Do NOT STIR...Another great color for Kilims.

Kilims: The Blues Again

2010-03-09T19:53:00.000-05:00

Here is a dark one. It is called Midnight. It is a formula from the dye book Prisms # 3. It is a formula form the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. It is one of their Color in Motion colors - CM20. A really lovely mixture of blue, navy, green and brick. This piece was dyed over 1/2 yard of Dorr wool in a Presto Pot with little to NO stirring, hence the mottling. Click on the photo to appreciate the depth of color in this one. Another amazing bue for Kilims.

Kilims: Back to the Blues

2010-03-08T19:08:00.000-05:00

Here is another wonderful blue. This one is called Williamsburg Blue Dark. It is an Oriental Background color formula from Prisms # 1 (66 Spots and 35 Oriental Backgrounds), a dye book from the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. Click on the photo to see the great depth of color.

It is rich and luxurious. Another exquisite color for use in Kilims.

The Presto Pot

2010-03-07T12:36:00.000-05:00

For those of you that have inquired....here is a photo of the Presto Pot that I have been talking about in my previous posts. It was purchased in the US at Walmart. It was retailing for $19.99, but I think the last time that I saw it the price was up to $21.99. I believe it is called a multi-cooker or kettle cooker. I honestly do not remember exactly.( If anyone knows the exact name please share it with us...thanks). It comes with a glass cover which is not included in this photo and I rarely ever use the cover at all. It also comes with an aluminum basket for deep frying. Some folks use the basket to make spot dyes and or really mottled wool. I rarely use the basket either. The Presto Pot easily holds a 1/2 yard and can hold a yard quite nicely. The temp control allows you to really watch your pot simmer wonderfully.

My Kilim So Far...

2010-03-05T19:51:00.000-05:00

My progress on my Kilim has been slow, but steady. I am a very slow hooker, especially when I am using a # 5 cut. The traditional symbols found in Kilim rugs and carpets have meanings which have been passed down from one generation to the next.

"The patterns and motifs on kilim rugs have a symbolic language. Thus, many symbolic, iconic or indexical motifs (signs) on kilim rugs can help transfer the cultural data of that time to the present day, therefore kilims are media of transferring cultural heredity as well." (Assist. Prof. PhD. Nurdan Taflk›ran - Kocaeli University, Faculty of Communication, Radio, Cinema & TV Dept., Turkey.)

This "Red" panel represents me.

Here is an iconic figure of a man that represents me. Above me is an icon which symbolizes my hands, used to create the rugs that I make.

Above the hand is an icon of a cross which symbolizes my connection to my spirituality, and my yoga practice (mind/body/soul).

Here are two more two crosses, one stylized as a flower which relates to my spiritual connection to the earth and my garden and flowers and the other a more traditional representation of a cross which represents for me my profession in the health care field.

Kilims: Back to Browns

2010-03-04T19:47:00.000-05:00

This interesting piece of wool is Mahogany. A Prochem dye right out of the jar. I used 1/4 tsp. of Mahogany over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural processed in a Presto Pot in water only enough to cover the wool, and guess what??? I did NOT stir the wool, hence the marvelous mottling. Click on the photo to see the great variation in value and hue. It is a delectable color to use in Kilims.

Kilims: Got The Blues...

2010-03-03T20:08:00.000-05:00

Check out this gorgeous piece of wool. This blue is so deep and rich. Click on the photo to see for yourself. It is called Starless Night. It is a formula by Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com) from her dye book Dying For Color. It is an amazing blue for Kilims. This piece is a 1/2 yard of Dorr wool processed in a Presto Pot with only enough water to barely cover the wool and was NOT stirred, hence the beautiful mottling. Try it, you WILL like it!

Kilims: The Colors Continue

2010-03-02T19:45:00.000-05:00

This awesome piece of wool called Great Beauty is a Wandering formula by Wanda Kerr -http://wandaworksinwiarton.blogspot.com/

Wanda used Majic Carpet Dyes to produce this amazing dyed piece of wool. Check out her blog and look for wandering formulas. Click on the photo to see just how rich this one is. It is a great color to use in Kilim rugs. Remember these wandering woolens are chameleon in nature - they will change up a bit to fit in with your other wool choices quite well.

Kilims: More Colors to Choose

2010-03-01T12:15:00.000-05:00

Here is another lovely color from Sharon Townsend's "SPNEA'S Historic Colors of America". It is called Cogswell Cedar. It is a yummy combo of brick, orange, yellow and teal. This piece was dyed over 1/2 yd of Dorr wool in a Presto Pot with shallow water and little to NO stirring. Click on the photo to see the rich mottled effect and loveliness of value.

Kilims: The Colors Continue

2010-02-28T19:32:00.000-05:00

A great red - Barn Red Dark - an Oriental Background color from Prisms #1 (66 Spots and 35 Oriental Backgrounds), a dye book by the Dye Divas Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. It is rich and luxurious. Look at the depth of color. A exquisite color for use in Kilims.

Kilims: Need a Little Poison???

2010-02-27T13:50:00.000-05:00

Check out this fabulous color!! It is Prochem Avocado. I used 1/4 tsp of Avocado over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural. It was processed in a Presto Pot in only enough water to cover the wool, with little to NO stirring. It is a scrumptious color to add a little bit of poison. Click on the photo to see the wonderful variation in hue and value in the same piece of wool. Give it a try ...you might just like it!!!

Kilims: Another Great Wool Color

2010-02-26T19:41:00.000-05:00

This is Clay, a Prochem dye. This piece was dyed with 1/4 tsp of Clay over 1/2 yard of Dorr natural. It is processed in the Presto Pot with only enough water to barely cover the wool and little to NO stirring. I use Citric Acid as my mordant. It is delicious color, very versatile and has amazing depth.

Luscious Wool Colors Continues

2010-02-24T20:06:00.001-05:00

Here is another great color of wool. It is called Stencil Brown. It is a color from the dye book Dying For Color by Susan Quicksall (deqslq@aol.com). This is a really great color with good value play and is great for kilims.

Lovely Jade Wandering Wool

2010-02-23T20:21:00.001-05:00

This piece is called Jade. It is another of Wiarton Wanda's Wandering wool formulas. You can find the formula in Rug Hooking Magazine March/April/May 2004. It is extremely versatile and so lovely in Kilims. Try it you'll like it!

Did you know that you can click on the photos to see them larger?????

Another Great Kilim Color

2010-02-22T20:42:00.001-05:00

Here is the scrumptious Red Rock Canyon. It is a formula developed by Sharon Townsend. The formula is available in her dye book "SPNEA'S Historic Colors of America". It is a yummy mixture of brick, caramel and evergreen - all Prochem dyes.
This piece is from a 1/2 yard of Dorr natural that was dyed in a Presto pot with only enough water to cover the wool and NOT stirred. It produces a wonderful mottled red with lights, darks and mediums too!

More Lovely Wool Colors

2010-02-21T19:22:00.000-05:00

Here is another wandering color. I call it Blush. This one is so much fun. Lots of variation of value make it very versatile.

Yummy Candy is the name of this interesting piece of wool. It is another wandering color. Again the variation in this piece allow for many applications, including Kilims.

Another Kilim Color

2010-02-20T12:49:00.001-05:00

This one is called Camel Dung. Yeah, you read correctly. It is a float method of dying. One color is floated onto the wool at a time while the wool sits in a large pot of salted water. Mordant is added only once. The second and third colors are floated on when the previous color is all absorbed. This fabulous formula comes from Anne Boissinot. It is delicious when it is hooked up.

More Great kilim Colors

2010-02-19T19:16:00.000-05:00

Bea Brock, www.hillcountry-rugworks.com recently wrote an article in the February/March ATHA newsletter www.atharugs.com "Dying Primer". Bea gave a formula for this wonderful blue-green. Bea suggested taking a 1/4 cup of the dye solution and pre-dying or tinting the wool piece ( in this case a 1/2 yard) and then take the remaining 3/4 cup and dying the half yard piece without any stirring in a pot with only enough water to barely cover the wool that is crowded in a pot. The above photo shows the result of this method. This piece would work wonderfully in a kilim. It has really interesting mottled variations in the values going from light to medium to dark all in the same piece.

Kilim Colors Continue

2010-02-18T19:55:00.000-05:00

This is Bryce Canyon. A dye formula from Prisms #3 - Color In Motion by Dye Divas - Claire deRoos and Nancy MacLennan. It is one of the ABRASH colors.

Midnight Stroll

Designed and Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

(the dessert floor is hooked with Bryce Canyon)

What is Abrash?

Abrash is a color variation or stripe of a slightly different hue across the body of a carpet, the result of a slight color difference in the dye lots used.

This is Golden Glow. Another dye formula from the Prisms #3 dye book. It is also dyed with the ABRASH technique. Notice the dark and light and medium values in the same piece of wool. Hooking this piece of wool will produce the ABRASH look in your rug. This technique will aid the rughooker in replicating the look of a flatwoven Kilim with the variations in color.

Lucious Wool for Kilims Continues

2010-02-17T19:34:00.000-05:00

Here is another great color to use in Kilim rugs. This is Mocha Chino, a Prochem dye, use 1/4 tsp. over 1/2 yard Dorr natural. It was dyed in a Presto Pot in a dye solution only deep enough to just barely cover the wool. After the initial stir, the wool was only stirred once after the Citric Acid was added. The effect is a wonderful warm brown with tones of gold. Really hard to describe, but really a lovely color.

More Lucious Wool for Kilims

2010-02-16T19:50:00.001-05:00

Another of Wanda's wandering colors - Moroccan Sand. This one is as delicious can be with lovely soft mediums and dull darks. It works really well in Kilim rugs. Just like the other neutral wandering wools, these really do make your other colors sing!

The formula for Moroccan Sand was published in Wanda's dye column "Colors to Dye For" in Rug Hooking Magazine, March/April/May 2004.
To learn more about the Wandering method visit Wanda's blog at: http://wandaworksinwiarton.blogspot.com/

First in a Series of Lucious Dyed Wool For Kilims

2010-02-15T21:04:00.001-05:00

This first one is Worry Stone. One of my favorite colors to dye using the float or wandering method. Each time I dye it I love it more. It really is a chameleon color - in that it changes depending what color you put it next to. Simply lovely. It works really well in Kilim rugs. This is one of Wanda's Wandering colors that was published in her dye column "Colors to Dye For" in Rug Hooking Magazine, March/April/May 2004.
To learn more about the Wandering method visit Wanda's blog at: http://wandaworksinwiarton.blogspot.com/

Happy Valentines

2010-02-13T11:49:00.000-05:00

Go Ahead Do It !

2010-02-08T19:20:00.000-05:00

1st Annual International Punch Needle Rug Hooking Day!

2010-02-06T12:42:00.001-05:00

1st Annual International Punch Needle Rug Hooking Day!

Erzuli

Designed and Hooked by Yanick Duchesne

In the words of the artist: " Erzuli, voodoo god of love, is often represented in wrought iron on the front of homes to protect them. The central motif of the pillow is inspired from a traditional Haitian drawing.

I added some decorative folkloric curves and hearts."

For more info on this first time Punch Needle Rug Hooking Day check out Amy Oxford's website - here: http://www.amyoxford.com/

More Hooked Kilim Rugs

2010-02-03T20:14:00.001-05:00

Tribal kilim

Hooked By Anne Boissinot

Design by J McGown Flynn for Charco, The House of Price

Grand Sivas

Hooked by Martha Beals

Kilim Sivas Pillow

Hooked by Norma Batastini

Kilim Sivas

Hooked by Norma Batastini

Sivas Pillow

Hooked by ??????

Hooked Kilim Rugs

2010-01-31T14:18:00.000-05:00

Several years ago I taught a workshop in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia on the rich color and techniques of Hooking Kilims. These are some examples of hooked Kilim rugs from that workshop.

Kilim Pillow

Hooked by Tony Latham

Adaptation of Traditional Design by Montrealcolors

Small Kilim Mat

Hooked by Lois Latham

Adaptation of Traditional Design by Montrealcolors

Kilim Pillow Top

Hooked by Jocelyn Guindon

Adaptation of Traditional Design by Montrealcolors

Large Kilim Rug

Hooked by Diane Harris

Adaptation of Traditional Design Montrealcolors

Kilim Hooked Rug .....

2010-01-30T13:54:00.003-05:00

I finally have made time to get some work done on my Kilim. About a year ago last November, the St. Henri Rug Hookers were hosts to the fabulous, talented, knowledgeable, giving, fun, experienced teacher -Anne Boissinot. Anne gave us a really great workshop on designing our own Kilim rug. This is the one that I designed. Each participant of the workshop left with their own original Kilim design and a harmonious color plan. If you ever get the chance to work with Anne - grab it!

These Kilim rugs are hooked in straight lines across the design to mimic the authentic flat woven Kilims. This one is a #5 cut - OMG!!! It could take forever! As I get more of it hooked I will show my progress and the rest of the design obviously. What you see so far is one of the symbols I chose to depict water. It represents my connection to the Atlantic ocean where I grew up in Nova Scotia. Kilim rugs can and often tell stories through the symbols used in the design.

What is a Kilim?
Pronounced - kE -'lEm
Etymology - Turkish, from persian kilim
Meaning - a pileless handwoven reversible rug or covering of many uses; produced by one of several flatweaving techniques that have a common or closely related heritage; practiced in the geographical area that includes part of North Africa, the Balkans, Western Turkestan, Turkey (Anatolia and Thrace), the Caucasus, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Central Asia and China. More commonly known as Turkish rugs or Turkish carpets.

Deep Freeze.....Winter is BACK!

2010-01-29T20:24:00.001-05:00

We have been spoiled most of the month of January with mild mild weather and now we are deep into an artic like cold. Our chilly winds today gave us temps that felt like -30C. Brrrrr... Perfect weather to spread out wool and hook and cuddle up in the warmth of the wool. Happy Hooking everyone - Stay warm where ever you are!