Weaving way to muster

KARI HILL – on work experience

Parents and children can weave their way into the world of spinning at the South Coast Fibre Muster at Berry next weekend.

Children can learn to do felting and French knitting while their parents enjoy the spinning demonstrations by Berry Spinners and Weavers.

Spinners and Weavers spokesperson Christine Sloan said the event was a social, sharing experience and helped raise awareness of the quality of weaving.

“We all share our knowledge (between members) as well as with the general public,” she said.

Ms Sloan said fibre muster events began a few years ago in the country, where people were often isolated.

These events gained great popularity, so it was considered appropriate that one be arranged on the coast.

The South Coast Fibre Muster was held for the first time in 2006. This was such a success that it has been extended for two days for 2008.

This year there will be a VIP guest, New Zealander Anne Field, who will be sharing her expertise this weekend.

Ms Field has been spinning and weaving since 1962 and has taught classes in New Zealand, Canada, the UK, Europe and the US.

Two workshops are already booked out, but places are still available for a Saturday workshop from 10am until 4pm. Bookings can be made by calling Christine Sloan on 4234 0422.

Ms Field has also published a number of books, including Weaving and the Rigid Heddle Loom and The Ashfield Book of Spinning.

Entry to the Fibre Muster is $2. There is also a raffle with great prizes, including a handcrafted rug.

All proceeds go to the William Campbell College for disadvantaged children. South Coast Fibre Muster’s biennial event opens from 9am to 4pm daily at Berry School of Arts, Alexandra Street, in Berry on Friday and Saturday (July 4 and 5).