Weaver Profile: Pamela Harwood

June 12, 2016

Weaving Aboard a Boat

I began my textile journey as a knitter. My first project was a scarf for my husband. While I found knitting hats and sweaters to be quick and ever-changing, as I gained proficiency, I realized that I felt bogged down by the sameness of knitting scarves. It wasn’t until I discovered weaving that I realized this was the craft for me.

I acquired my first loom when I responded to a group email, “Free to a good home.” It was a standard 36″ Schacht Floor Loom, which came with all its pieces and parts, plus a ton of 3/2 cotton. I took several lessons and found weaving to be a delightful and productive activity! Three years later, I attended The National Needlearts Association (TNNA) trade show, where I met Denise and Jane of Schacht. I also happened to be the high bidder on their 15″ Cricket Loom in the silent auction.

The Cricket Loom has allowed me to bring my weaving to the local farmer’s market and to fiber events. Weaving is fascinating to the uninitiated, even on a simple loom. Children are especially drawn to the Cricket Loom. Scarves, scarves, and more scarves have come off my Cricket, and I have barely scratched the surface of what can be done, as showcased in Jane’s book, The Weaver’s Idea Book. Next, I learned how to weave rugs, since the floor loom had been freed up by the Cricket. I use corespun alpaca yarn that I have made locally.

Two years ago, my husband and I sold our herd of alpacas and bought a 46′ powerboat. I decided to sell the floor loom, and at TNNA 2014, I bought the 25″ Flip Loom, so that I can continue to weave rugs, even aboard the boat. It stows so easily in the carry bag! Handwoven rugs and scarves, as well as knitted hats and mittens, will help fill the “cruising kitty” as we prepare to simplify our lives living aboard a boat.

-Pamela Harwood

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