My biggest concern was the woven fabric coming unraveled.  I solved this issue by cutting and fusing the interfacing to the fabric BEFORE cutting.  I also did a zig-zag stitch around the edge through the facing before cutting.  No, I didn’t take photos.  I was too busy figuring this out as I went along!

All things considered, I’m pretty happy with the results.  The strap is the same warp threads braided.  I still have more fabric, so I’m considering creating another bag and making a few changes now that I’ve learned what I do and don’t want in the finished product.

When it comes to working with fibers, I’m becoming much more free-spirited.  I am realizing that you can mix different types of fibers to create truly one of a kind fabrics, rugs, etc.  Fun!

My looms currently sit with no weaving projects on them.  I’ve been too busy trying my hand at spinning with a drop spindle.  I still need to finish the edges of the other projects I took off the loom, but…well,  I just can’t help myself!  The spinning has become a bit addicting

So, the past couple weeks I’ve done some more spinning and was able to take this hand painted merino wool roving.

And turn it into, this two ply chunky yarn.  (Sorry for the blur)

Which I crocheted into a soft, warm scarf.  All with one spindle!

I’m ordering some more roving made with different fibers and my oldest son is making me another, lighter weight spindle.  I’d like to try making thinner yarns — it’s all a process, but I love learning new things!

A few months ago I bartered homemade soap and a gift card for a beautiful Le Clerc floor loom with bench.  The loom had not been used in years, and the seller really wanted to see it put to use.  I’m working on trying to figure out how to get it warped, and I’m anxious to create something on it!  I had to do some serious rearranging in order to incorporate a second floor loom in our small house, but I managed.  Now the front room is my “studio”!

I joined a local weaver’s guild, and have enjoyed making new friends.  Now when I at thrift stores or yard sales, I’m always on the look out for weaving yarn and materials!  Thankfully, I’ve come across several cones of wonderful thread/yarn for about $1 each.

I am so enjoying working with fiber!  Along with the loom, the former owner also passed on a stash of yarn, a warping board, and a drop spindle.  I ordered some wool roving and this week I’ve attempted to do some spinning.

For the record, spinning is much harder than it looks!  I am determined though, and there are ladies in the weaver’s guild who also spin, so I’m hoping to find someone to mentor me in both.

Although I’m not very good at it, I have found the spinning (or my attempts) to be fairly relaxing and I’m excited about the idea of creating items from yarn I’ve spun by hand!