For those who are new to Haps, this was the name given to the traditional knitted shawl, worn on a daily basis by Shetland working women as protection against the harsh climate, "Hap" being the dialect word meaning to wrap, cover or keep warm.
Working haps were knitted from the coarser Shetland wool, with the various natural colours being used to add interest. |
This project will run throughout the year
and will focus on the many different types of fleece from around the UK. It will analyse their various characteristics, and their most appropriate methods of fibre preparation, processing and finishing. The aim is to produce a range of various fibre samples and completed items, highlighting the strengths and characteristics of each type of fleece, together with their most appropriate usage. |
Nearly Wild Weaving is run by Irene Evison and Anna Wetherell who are passionate about tapestry weaving, nature and combining the two in much of what they create.
They are both members of their local Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers – Irene in the Highlands and Anna in Lancs & Lakes - and are involved in a range of projects with the aim of connecting tapestry weaving, weavers and nature. They are planning two very exciting activities this year, places on which are limited. The first activity is a retreat of song and weave in the Scottish Highlands in April. The second is overseas to explore the weaving and textile heritage, culture and practices of communities in the Humla valley in the Nepal Himalaya in October. Full details of both trips are available via the links below. |