The Technology of Weaving

 

cover of one of my books

Over and over again I see newbies to weaving asking for answers to questions that they can find in books if they can't take a class.

Yesterday again, someone questioning about my use of 2/8 instead of 8/2 - aren't they the same thing?

I responded that they are the same count, but not necessarily the same quality.  And left it at that - it was a group chat, after all.  And I didn't feel like typing out half of a chapter in my book for their edification.

Call me a grinch.

And again, someone else suggesting AI as a way to learn anything.

The lying machine that just flat out makes stuff up but you want to have correct answers about technical weaving questions?  OK.  

Experienced weavers are still here, still educating, still trying to set people on a reasonable path to learning.  To be then told that we are no better than AI is discouraging from even bothering to try.

What can I say?  I'm stubborn.  And I'm not easily discouraged from trying to educate as much as I can.

So I am investigating options for the future - if I can ever get better enough that I can begin to manage a schedule of weaving, writing and/or online presentations.

I just sent the latest files to WEFT for the Spring 2027 (not a typo) issue and I have pitched an idea for the one after that.  They haven't accepted it yet, and I'm of two minds about that.  It is a topic that isn't amongst my favourites, but an idea burbled to the surface and I'd kind of like to explore it a bit.  But if they turn it down, neither will I be devastated.

I am, after all, supposed to be 'retired'.  And I'm still struggling with physical/health issues.  Although just this month I have actually seen some significant improvement in one of the more testing of the issues.  But I am not 'cured' and until progress stops, neither will I know if there is a 'cure' to be had.  The nerve damage may have progressed too far and I may still be managing pain from that one.

Plus my back continues to get worse.

In the meantime I keep weaving.  Keep stash busting (as best I can).  Keep reducing my expectations for what I can accomplish.  

Life is a journey.  Sometimes you travel quickly, sometimes slowly, sometimes you travel in comfort and style, or in a creaky old vehicle or even you just limp along, day by day.  But there IS still beauty to be seen on the way.  And sometimes travelling at a slower speed you can stop and enjoy that beauty for more than a minute.  

Sending everyone gold dust and the time to enjoy beauty when they come across it.