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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, host Felicia Lo speaks with Star Athena, a multicraftual creative and founder of the Tour de Fleece. They explore Star’s journey through the fibre arts, her experiences across different crafts, and how the Tour de Fleece grew from a small idea into a global community. Star reflects on her creative path, the impact of her autism diagnosis, and the healing nature of making. Their conversation highlights the value of community, personal growth, and the joy that comes from crafting.

Takeaways

• Star Athena's journey in fibre arts began at a young age.
• She has a diverse background in various crafts, including knitting, spinning, and crochet.
• The Tour de Fleece was inspired by her love for cycling and spinning.
• The event started small but grew into a global community of spinners.
• Star emphasizes the importance of creativity without strict rules or guidelines.
• She has experienced burnout in her crafting journey but continues to explore new avenues.
• Star's diagnosis of autism at 45 has changed her perspective on creativity.
• Creative pursuits are seen as a form of meditation and healing for Star.
• The impact of the Tour de Fleece on the crafting community is profound and lasting.
• Star values her identity beyond the Tour de Fleece, focusing on personal growth and creativity.

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In this episode of the SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo speaks with Victor and Amber Mazza, founders of Gealach Fola Acres, about their transition from military service to becoming first-generation farmers and textile producers. They share their experiences in the Navy, their deep passion for fibre arts, and the challenges they face within the local textile industry. The conversation touches on their vision for the farm and mill, including their plans for fibre production and building community through the creation of a local tartan. They also talk about acquiring and restoring mill equipment, emphasizing sustainability and the importance of supporting local farmers.

Takeaways:

• Victor and Amber are first-generation farmers who founded Gealach Fola Acres in 2022.
• They met while serving in the US Navy in Japan.
• Amber has a long-standing passion for textiles, starting with crochet at a young age.
• Victor has always dreamed of a self-sufficient homestead for fibre and food.
• The couple aims to process local wool and bast fibres at their mill.
• They are addressing the challenges faced by small farmers in the local textile industry.
• The acquisition of mill equipment was a significant milestone for their business.
• They designed a community tartan to unify the local heritage and families.
• Their farm spans 81 acres, mostly wooded, with plans for fibre trials and production.
• They actively engage with the community through events and social media.

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In this week’s episode, Felicia chats with Lisa Graves, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Weft Magazine. Together, they talk about how the magazine began, how it's structured, and what kinds of topics readers can look forward to. They also dive into the value of weaving education, both in-person and online, and what makes Kawartha Weaving studio such a special place to learn. Their discussion touches on the challenges and rewards of teaching weaving, the rich content featured in Weft Magazine, and the vibrant community that surrounds the craft.

Felicia and Lisa also explore how weaving education is evolving. They talk about the importance of mentorship and community, as well as the role technology and social media play in supporting the craft. From the benefits of online learning to the continued relevance of guilds, their conversation highlights the many ways weavers can learn, grow, and connect, always with an emphasis on sharing knowledge and building community along the way.

Please join us for this inspirational conversation around craft, learning and community.

Takeaways

• Lisa Graves is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Weft Magazine.
• Weft Magazine aims to provide accessible knowledge about weaving.
• The magazine is structured around specific themes each issue.
• Future issues will explore topics like warp, drape, and sustainability.
• Kawartha Weaving offers a unique retreat-like learning experience.
• Lisa emphasizes the importance of in-person learning for weaving.
• Online teaching has opened doors for students unable to attend in person.
• The community aspect of weaving is vital for education and support.
• Weaving education should empower students to work independently.
• Lisa's studio is designed to create a welcoming and inspiring environment. Ergonomics and technique are crucial in crafting.
• Online workshops can enhance learning experiences.
• Structured learning formats improve student retention.
• Guilds play a vital role in preserving weaving skills.
• Mentorship is essential for passing on knowledge.
• Social media can inspire new weavers.
• Sharing details about projects helps others learn.
• Community support is key to sustaining interest in weaving.
• Technology can bridge gaps in traditional learning.
• Encouraging others to teach fosters a vibrant craft community.

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In this week's episode, we are excited to welcome Celeste Angello, known as the Cranky Spinster, about her journey into the world of circular sock knitting machines (CSM). They discuss the importance of community, the process of restoring antique machines, and tips for beginners looking to get started in sock knitting.

Celeste shares her experiences with crank-ins, the innovations in the CSM world, and the creative possibilities that come with using these machines. The conversation highlights the rich history of sock knitting and the excitement of exploring new techniques and ideas within the craft.

Takeaways:

• Celeste identifies as a maker, encompassing various crafts.
• Crank-ins are essential for learning and community building.
• The best sock machine is one that works, regardless of age.
• Budget and intended use are key factors in choosing a sock machine.
• Beginners should focus on mastering the basics of sock knitting.
• The online community for sock knitting is vast and varied.
• Innovations in sock knitting include 3D printed machines and accessories.
• Creativity in sock knitting is limited only by imagination.
• Restoration of antique machines can be a rewarding process.
• Celeste shares her journey and encourages others to explore the craft.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo chats with Amy Sadler, editor of Knitty.com, the longest-running free knitting magazine online. They talk about how Knitty got started, Amy’s path through the knitting world, and how both the magazine and the community have evolved over the years. Together, they explore the changing landscape of online platforms, the role of Patreon and BlueSky in building community, and how designers can find support while navigating the pressures of creative work.

This conversation offers thoughtful insights into the heart of the fibre arts community, along with advice, inspiration, and a look at the trends shaping knitting and crochet today. Please join us!

Takeaways

• Knitty was founded in 2002 and has become a staple in the knitting community.
• Amy Sadler's background in editing and proofreading shaped the quality of Knitty's content.
• The magazine started as a way to centralize independent knitting patterns.
• Knitty has launched the careers of many well-known designers in the knitting industry.
• The transition from print to online allowed for more detailed and accessible patterns.
• Community engagement has shifted from traditional forums to platforms like Patreon and Blue Sky.
• Amy emphasizes the importance of making patterns understandable for all knitters.
• The knitting community is diverse, including many neurodivergent individuals.
• Knitty remains free to readers, supported by patrons and advertising.
• There is a growing interest in returning to long-form content and blogs.
• Monetization strategies for creators include Patreon and YouTube views.
• Support from patrons can lead to feelings of guilt for creators.
• Good design and quality patterns are essential for success in the knitting industry.
• Trends in knitting are influenced by yarn availability and fashion.
• Cropped and oversized designs are currently popular in knitting.
• Crochet is gaining recognition and popularity among knitters.
• Resources like Knitty provide valuable information for knitters and designers.
• Innovation in design is crucial for standing out in a crowded market.
• Building connections and consistently producing good work can lead to greater visibility.

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Designer Aimee Sher joins Felicia Lo for an inspiring conversation about creativity, inclusivity, and the evolution of modern knitting. Aimee shares her journey from knitter to designer, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her thoughtful design process, her commitment to size-inclusive patterns, and how yarn choices shape her work.

They dive into the influence of fashion trends, the role of accessibility in pattern writing, and the impact of community through test knitting and teaching. Aimee also reflects on how her Taiwanese heritage and climate awareness influence her craft and how she balances her love for knitting, weaving, and spinning with the demands of a growing business.

Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation full of insight, inspiration, and a glimpse into what’s next from Aimee Sher.

Takeaways

• Aimee's journey into fibre arts began after having a baby.
• Knitting provides a sense of purpose and identity for parents.
• Inclusivity in patterns is a priority for Aimee.
• Accessibility in pattern design is evolving.
• Aimee's designs focus on practical and wearable garments.
• The importance of considering different body shapes in sizing.
• Yarn choice significantly influences design decisions.
• Aimee avoids following other designers to maintain originality.
• The trend in knitting is shifting towards more fitted garments.
• Aimee's creative process is heavily influenced by the yarn itself. Aimee designs primarily for her customers and test knitters.
• The knitting process can be time-consuming, often taking 40-60 hours for a sweater.
• Trust from test knitters is crucial for successful designs.
• Cultural background influences Aimee's design choices and fabric selections.
• Aimee's grandmother was a professional crochet designer, linking her to her heritage.
• Designing with climate in mind is important for Aimee's work.
• Aimee enjoys exploring various textile arts beyond knitting, including weaving and spinning.
• Balancing craft and business is a challenge for Aimee, requiring careful time management.
• Aimee finds joy in the creative process and the learning that comes with it.
• Future projects include new patterns and expanding her shop offerings.

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In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo welcomes Andrea Lui for a thoughtful conversation about crafting and health. Together, they explore the importance of ergonomics while we craft and share preventive measures to help ensure many years of comfortable, joyful making. Andrea also speaks to the powerful role crafting can play in supporting our mental health.

Andrea shares her journey from casual crafter to physical therapist, now specializing in craft-related injuries, and emphasizes the importance of staying aware of how we move while we create. They touch on common concerns like carpal tunnel syndrome and offer practical tips to support a sustainable, daily crafting practice.

Whether you knit, spin, or weave, this episode is a gentle reminder that caring for your body is just as essential as the work you bring into the world.

Takeaways

• Crafting can transform your relationship with your craft.
• Knitting became a retreat from the busy world.
• It's important to connect with the crafting community.
• Many crafters experience pain but don't seek help.
• Preventative measures are key to avoiding crafting injuries.
• Posture and ergonomics significantly impact crafting comfort.
• Choosing the right tools can enhance crafting experience.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome is common among crafters.
• Mental health benefits are significant in crafting.
• Awareness of body mechanics is crucial for long-term crafting.

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In this episode of the Sweet Georgia Show, Felicia explores the work of Radical Weavers, a community weaving studio in Stirling, Scotland. Founded by Mairi Breslin, the studio supports young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds through weaving workshops and inclusive teaching methods. Peter Dickie, Mairi’s son, runs the studio’s commercial offerings and community work, showcasing the transformative power of weaving.

The Radical Weavers organization, which started as a small hobby, has grown into a community hub that offers therapeutic weaving workshops and support for individuals facing challenges. Through inclusive and inspiring programs, the organization empowers people to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The Radical Weavers’ commitment to diversity and inclusion has earned them recognition and support from the community.

Takeaways:

• Radical Weavers focuses on building community through weaving.
• The studio supports young adults who are neurodivergent or LGBT.
• Weaving is used as a therapeutic tool for trauma recovery.
• Accessibility adaptations are made for individuals with disabilities.
• Tartan weaving is evolving with innovative designs and materials.
• The V&A Museum residency showcased the creativity of the studio.
• Personal stories highlight the transformative power of weaving.
• Future plans include opening a Tartan Centre in Scotland.
• The organization aims to be self-sufficient and community-driven.
• Inclusivity and support are at the core of Radical Weavers' mission.