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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Heavenly Bresser, an accomplished fibre artist known for her expertise in spinning, knitting, and teaching. They discuss Heavenly's creative journey, the importance of community in fibre arts, and her passion for restoring spinning wheels. Heavenly shares her experiences in teaching and the joy of experimentation in crafting, as well as her strategies for balancing her artistic pursuits with family life. The conversation highlights the vibrant world of fibre arts and the connections that inspire creativity.

Takeaways:

• Heavenly explains the origin of her business name, Heavenly Knitchet.
• Heavenly shares her honest initial struggles with a drop spindle, including wrist pain and compacted fibre.
• A turning point in Heavenly's journey was finding a local guild.
• She details her process of restoring antique wheels, which involves everything from replacing leather treadle straps to using a wood lathe to recreate missing parts.
• Heavenly reveals she is currently building her own Charkha.
• She offers unique one-on-one clinics to help students overcome specific hurdles, whether they want to learn to spin bulky yarn or master a long draw.
• To juggle raising a family, teaching, and restoring wheels, Heavenly uses a "patchwork" approach.
• Throughout the episode, Heavenly embodies a growth mindset: "I don't know how to do this yet, but I can learn."

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia welcomes Grayson Erlbacher, the general manager of Erlbacher Knitting Machines. They discuss the vibrant community surrounding circular sock knitting, the importance of events like the crank-in, and the history and evolution of knitting machines. Grayson shares insights into the company's journey, the significance of fostering a supportive environment for knitters, and the future of machine knitting. The conversation highlights the blend of craftsmanship and community in the fibre arts world.

Takeaways

• The crank-in experience fosters community and connection among knitters.
• Erlbacher Knitting Machines emphasizes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at events.
• Understanding the manufacturing process enhances appreciation for knitting machines.
• Community feedback is crucial for improving events and experiences.
• The history of knitting machines is rich and tied to significant historical events.
• Grayson transitioned from nursing to managing a family business in knitting machines.
• The company has seen a rise in younger knitters interested in machine knitting.
• Crafting has become a lucrative market compared to traditional industries.
• Erlbacher Knitting Machines focuses on customer satisfaction and support.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia Lo interviews Andrew Bryson, a passionate weaver and teacher, who shares his journey into the world of inkle and tablet weaving. Andrew discusses his background in fibre arts, the intricacies of different weaving techniques, and the importance of overcoming the fear of starting a new craft. They discuss the freedom that comes from pursuing creative passions without the pressure of commercial success, the cultural significance of weaving across different societies, and the need for a shift towards sustainable practices in fashion.

Takeaways:

• Andrew Bryson has been weaving for about five years and has a deep respect for historical weaving techniques.
• He emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge within the fibre arts community.
• Inkle weaving is a form of band weaving that is warp-faced and often involves hand manipulation for patterning.
• Tablet weaving is more complex and allows for a variety of techniques and patterns.
• Both inkle and tablet weaving can be as intricate as multi-shaft loom weaving.
• The loom is just a tool; the creativity comes from the weaver's choices.
• Starting with weaving can be daunting, but it's important to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
• The value of the process and learning in fibre arts is often overlooked.
• Materials should not be treated as too precious; the experience of creating is what matters.
• Balancing a full-time job with a passion for weaving requires intentional time management.
• Pressure on creativity can stifle artistic expression. Creative freedom allows for exploration without constraints.
• Weaving is a universal cultural practice; these techniques are vital for cultural preservation. Historical techniques connect us to our past.
• Learning traditional crafts cannot be replaced by technology.
• The fast fashion culture lacks sustainability.
• Repairing items is a growing movement.
• Engaging in fibre arts fosters community and creativity.