Having a set of related-but unique- rugs, can create a sense of continuity yet still keeping with the spontaneity and fun that our rugs bring to a space. Our client brought in the fabric samples that she was working with in her home, and we created 3 rugs for three rooms in her home. Each rug has its own unique flair, yet they will keep in a nice flow with the design elements of the home. The result is work that is very fulfilling for us to do as craftspeople, working with what is at hand to create what is needed.

The rugs pictured here are custom High Relief, FW-4, and FWT-22. We can make any of these rugs in whatever colors may interest you. Send us an a e-mail with any comments or questions!

As hand weavers, we feel a very deep connection to what we do, and the work of our hands is evident in all that we create. Whether one labels what they do as art or craft, the creative impulse that flows through comes from the same source. We believe that handmade goods have much more character and care in them, that by putting our time in, what comes out is truly special. Unfortunately, much of the handmade traditions are becoming more and more rare, especially here in the United States. “That industrial chill is reassuring to an art audience that knows the chain stores and the suburban malls far better than the galleries and the museums. The artisanal image can provoke anxiety, because its uniqueness demands a unique response,” writes Perl.

You can read the rest of his excellent article here:

http://www.americancraftmag.org/article.php?id=2324

Also, in thinking about the gray area between art and craft, we are transitioning here into more or an artistic mode. In trying to expand what we do, we have been able to more fully explore what we can do with weaving, sewing, materials, and colors. We are currently working on a series of wall hangings in an intricate, yet modern and sleek block weave. These pieces are woven with high quality silk and cotton yarns that could be designed to accent any space. Contact us if you are interested, or visit the blog again soon to see more!

You can read Emerald Atkins’ article here:
http://www.theinteriorevolution.com/archives/2350

We are calling this style of rug “Intuitive Stripe”, because much of the color and pattern choices come to the weaver or designer instinctively. Taking into consideration the type of mood we are going for, or our clients color and form specifications, we can create a rug that is truly unique, that will transform a house into a home.

By weaving small samples, and then generating repeats using the computer, we are able to accurately visualize how the final product will turn out. This also expands the options for our client to see multiple pattern and repeat options, so that they will end up with the exact composition they desire.

Here is an example of the subtle pattern and color changes we can create

The same pattern usingdifferent colors produces a much different tone.

Using the pattern above, we then generated an image of what the repeat would look like.

This is a great example of an even more playful exploration of stripe. A long repeat makes for an exciting, funky look that still feels like a pattern. Adds zest to any space!

Please let us know if you are interested in this style of rug. We would love to work with you to bring your vision to fruition!

Related to our new work is an article that has been an inspiration to us. It brings attention to the “slow” movement. Many of us are familiar with the phrase “slow food”, which refers to taking the time to prepare our food with care, and thinking about what we are cooking, where it comes from, and supporting local producers as often as possible. Why stop at food though? Wikipedia defines the slow movement as “a cultural shift toward slowing life’s pace.” This is especially related to what we do here at Lark. Our rugs are crafted with the highest quality natural materials by artisans who are engaged in their creation from start to finish. The result is a timeless heirloom, not something that was mass manufactured and easily forgettable. As we integrate into this “slow” pace, our lives become richer and much more meaningful.

You can read more about slow work in Robert D Fienman’s article: http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/rdf/2009/06/the-slow-work-movement.php

If you are interested in keeping up with what is new at Lark, please e-mail us so that we can put you on our blog notification list!

As always, 10% of the purchase price goes toward Weave a Real Peace, a non-profit group serving as a catalyst for improving the quality of life or textile artisans in communities-in-need.
www.weavearealpeace.org

Recycled rug

]]> http://larktextile.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=49 0 http://larktextile.com/blog/?p=7 http://larktextile.com/blog/?p=7#comments Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:15:26 +0000 admin http://larktextile.com/blog/?p=7 This is an opportunity to purchase doormat size rugs for a cabin, a gift, a pet.
By using up all of our leftovers we create fanciful small-scale rugs for sale to the public.
Contact Lark for availability.
10% of the purchase price goes toward Weave a Real Peace, a non-profit group serving as a catalyst for improving the quality of life or textile artisans in communities-in-need.
www.weavearealpeace.org

Recycled rug

Design consultation

Designing a rug

Threading the loom

Weaving a rug

Weaving a rug

Winding Shuttles

Woven design by students

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